In a revelation that continues to fascinate music fans around the world, global pop superstar once confessed that he had another major artist in mind when he penned one of the biggest songs of the last decade. The chart-topping hit “Shape of You” was not originally written for himself — instead, Sheeran admitted he was thinking about none other than while crafting the infectious track.
The surprising confession offers fresh insight into the creative process behind a song that went on to dominate global charts, streaming platforms, and radio airwaves for months.
A Song That Defined an Era
Released in January 2017 as part of Sheeran’s massively successful album , “Shape of You” quickly became a cultural phenomenon. The song’s tropical-infused beat, rhythmic hook, and instantly memorable chorus helped it climb to No. 1 in multiple countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom. It became one of the best-selling digital singles of all time and shattered streaming records across platforms.
But behind the catchy melody lies a fascinating backstory.
During interviews following the song’s explosive success, Sheeran revealed that “Shape of You” wasn’t initially intended for his own voice. In fact, he wrote it during collaborative sessions with producers, crafting a track that he felt would suit Rihanna’s distinctive style and vocal delivery.
“She would have sounded amazing on it,” Sheeran reportedly shared, explaining that certain lyrical rhythms and melodic flows were inspired by imagining how Rihanna would interpret the track.
Imagining Rihanna on the Track
Rihanna, known for her genre-blending versatility, has a track record of transforming songs into global hits with her unique vocal tone and confident delivery. From dancehall-inspired anthems to sultry pop ballads, her ability to adapt across musical styles has long made her one of the most sought-after artists in the industry.
When Sheeran was developing “Shape of You,” he reportedly felt the song’s rhythmic structure and flirtatious lyrics aligned perfectly with Rihanna’s brand of cool, charismatic pop. The song’s minimalist production, paired with its dance-ready groove, mirrored the kind of bold, radio-friendly hits Rihanna has often delivered.
However, as the songwriting process progressed, Sheeran and his team reconsidered. While the track was initially pitched with Rihanna in mind, it ultimately remained in Sheeran’s hands — a decision that would prove to be career-defining.
A Career-Changing Decision
Choosing to keep “Shape of You” for himself marked a turning point for Sheeran. Though already an established star thanks to earlier hits like “Thinking Out Loud” and “Photograph,” this track showcased a different side of the singer-songwriter. It leaned more heavily into rhythmic pop and dance influences than his acoustic-driven ballads, signaling artistic growth and commercial ambition.
The gamble paid off. “Shape of You” became a streaming juggernaut and won prestigious awards, including a Grammy for Best Pop Solo Performance. The song’s global appeal cemented Sheeran’s status as one of the defining artists of his generation.
Interestingly, the revelation about Rihanna added another layer to the song’s legacy. Fans began imagining what the track might have sounded like had she recorded it — sparking online debates, mashups, and endless social media conversations.
The Art of Writing for Others
Sheeran is no stranger to writing songs for other artists. Over the years, he has contributed to hits for major names in the industry, demonstrating his versatility and knack for understanding different vocal personalities. Writing with a specific artist in mind is common practice among songwriters, allowing them to tailor melodies and lyrics to match another performer’s strengths.
In the case of “Shape of You,” imagining Rihanna’s vocal delivery reportedly influenced the song’s rhythmic phrasing and confident tone. That creative visualization is part of what makes songwriting a dynamic, collaborative craft — even when the collaboration remains hypothetical.
Ultimately, though, the song’s infectious hook felt so strong that Sheeran’s team encouraged him to record it himself. According to various interviews, they believed it had the potential to be a lead single from ÷ — and they were right.
A Global Phenomenon
The numbers behind “Shape of You” are staggering. The single topped charts in over 30 countries, amassed billions of streams on Spotify, and became one of the most-viewed music videos on YouTube. It dominated weddings, clubs, sporting events, and playlists worldwide.
The track’s crossover appeal — blending pop, dancehall influences, and a subtle R&B groove — helped it transcend demographic boundaries. It resonated with teenagers and adults alike, turning into a staple of late 2010s pop culture.
Meanwhile, Rihanna’s own legacy as a hitmaker continued to grow, further fueling curiosity about what might have been had she taken on the song.
Fans React to the Confession
When Sheeran’s admission surfaced publicly, fans were quick to react. Social media buzzed with excitement, with many listeners expressing surprise at the idea that such a massive hit was almost given away.
Some fans argued that Rihanna would have brought a completely different energy to the track — perhaps a more sultry, commanding presence. Others insisted that the song’s charm lies precisely in Sheeran’s understated, conversational delivery.
The lighthearted nature of the confession — often shared with a laugh — added to its appeal. It highlighted how even global megastars face creative crossroads and unexpected decisions during the songwriting process.
The Ripple Effect in Pop Culture
Stories like this remind audiences that the path to a hit song is rarely straightforward. Many iconic tracks were originally written for different artists before finding their final home. In this case, “Shape of You” serves as a prime example of how artistic instincts can evolve during production.
It also underscores the interconnected nature of the music industry. Major artists frequently inspire one another behind the scenes, whether through collaborations, songwriting sessions, or simply imagining how another performer might interpret a melody.
For Sheeran, the decision to keep “Shape of You” ultimately became one of the defining choices of his career. For Rihanna, the story adds yet another chapter to her reputation as a muse and powerhouse capable of elevating any track.
A Legacy That Lives On
Nearly a decade after its release, “Shape of You” remains a fixture in playlists around the world. Its opening marimba-like riff is instantly recognizable, and its chorus still fills dance floors.
Sheeran has continued to evolve artistically in the years since ÷, experimenting with new sounds and themes across subsequent projects. Yet “Shape of You” remains one of the most commercially successful songs in his catalog — a reminder of how a single creative decision can shape an artist’s trajectory.
As for Rihanna, her influence on contemporary pop and R&B remains undeniable. Even indirectly, her imagined presence during the songwriting phase of “Shape of You” demonstrates the respect and admiration she commands among fellow musicians.
In the end, the confession adds a playful twist to an already iconic hit. It shows that sometimes, the biggest songs in the world begin as simple ideas in a studio — shaped by imagination, collaboration, and a bit of “what if?”
One thing is certain: whether inspired by Rihanna or sung by Ed Sheeran himself, “Shape of You” carved out its place in music history — and continues to keep the world dancing.
