Perfect – Ed Sheeran
Ed Sheeran’s “Perfect,” released on September 26, 2017, is a testament to the enduring power of a well-crafted love song. As part of his third studio album, *÷* (pronounced “divide”), “Perfect” quickly rose to prominence, captivating listeners with its heartfelt lyrics, beautiful melody, and romantic themes. The official music video, which portrays a heartwarming love story set against a wintery backdrop, further enhances the song’s appeal, making it a favorite for weddings and romantic occasions.
### The Creation of “Perfect”
“Perfect” was written by Ed Sheeran himself, who has described it as the best song he’s ever written. Drawing from personal experiences, Sheeran crafted a song that captures the essence of finding true love. He has mentioned in interviews that the song was inspired by his girlfriend, Cherry Seaborn, whom he later married. This personal connection adds a layer of authenticity and intimacy to the lyrics.
Musically, “Perfect” is a ballad that blends contemporary pop with classical influences. The song features a gentle guitar melody, lush string arrangements, and Sheeran’s emotive vocals. This combination creates a rich, warm sound that perfectly complements the song’s romantic themes. The structure of the song, with its gradual build-up to a soaring chorus, evokes a sense of timelessness and grandeur.
### Lyrical Themes and Romantic Appeal
The lyrics of “Perfect” revolve around the joy and serenity of finding one’s soulmate. The opening lines, “I found a love for me / Darling, just dive right in and follow my lead,” set the tone for a song that is both personal and universal. The narrative follows the progression of a romantic relationship, from the initial stages of falling in love to envisioning a future together.
The chorus, “We were just kids when we fell in love / Not knowing what it was / I will not give you up this time,” captures the innocence and purity of young love. Sheeran’s use of vivid imagery, such as dancing in the dark and barefoot on the grass, creates a nostalgic and dreamlike atmosphere. This imagery, combined with Sheeran’s sincere delivery, makes “Perfect” a song that resonates deeply with listeners.
### The Official Music Video
Directed by Jason Koenig, the official music video for “Perfect” was released on November 9, 2017. The video stars Sheeran and actress Zoey Deutch, who portray a couple enjoying a romantic getaway in the Austrian Alps. The snowy, picturesque setting, along with scenes of skiing, ice skating, and cozying up by a fire, adds a magical quality to the video.
The narrative of the video aligns closely with the lyrics of the song, depicting the blossoming romance between the two characters. The chemistry between Sheeran and Deutch is palpable, making their love story feel genuine and relatable. The video’s cinematography, with its sweeping shots of the mountainous landscape and intimate close-ups, enhances the overall aesthetic, creating a visually stunning complement to the song.
### Commercial Success and Chart Performance
“Perfect” achieved immense commercial success, topping charts in numerous countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada. In the United States, the song reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming Sheeran’s second chart-topping single in the country. It also performed exceptionally well on streaming platforms, breaking records and amassing millions of streams.
The song’s popularity was further amplified by various remixes and collaborations. Notably, Sheeran released a duet version with Beyoncé, as well as an orchestral version featuring Italian singer Andrea Bocelli. These versions introduced the song to new audiences and showcased its versatility across different musical genres.
### Critical Reception
“Perfect” received widespread acclaim from music critics, who praised its romantic lyrics, Sheeran’s vocal performance, and the song’s timeless quality. Critics highlighted Sheeran’s ability to convey deep emotion through his songwriting, noting that “Perfect” stands out as a modern classic in the genre of love songs. The song’s blend of contemporary pop and classical influences was also commended, with reviewers appreciating its rich musical arrangement and production.
Many critics compared “Perfect” to other iconic love songs, suggesting that it has the potential to become a staple at weddings and romantic events for years to come. The song’s universal themes of love and devotion, combined with Sheeran’s sincere and heartfelt delivery, resonated with audiences across different age groups and musical tastes.
### Cultural Impact and Legacy
“Perfect” has left a lasting impact on pop culture and the music industry. Its universal themes of love and commitment have made it a timeless anthem for couples, often chosen as a soundtrack for weddings, anniversaries, and other significant life events. The song’s success has also influenced other artists, inspiring them to create music that blends contemporary and classic elements.
The official music video, with its enchanting winter setting and heartwarming love story, has further cemented the song’s status as a modern classic. The video’s romantic visuals, combined with Sheeran’s emotive performance, create a powerful and memorable experience that resonates with viewers.
“Perfect” also played a crucial role in solidifying Ed Sheeran’s reputation as one of the leading singer-songwriters of his generation. The song’s success, along with the achievements of the *÷* album, showcased Sheeran’s versatility and ability to craft songs that connect deeply with audiences. This enduring popularity has ensured that “Perfect” remains a significant part of Sheeran’s musical legacy.
### Conclusion
Ed Sheeran’s “Perfect” is more than just a successful single; it is a modern classic that has touched the hearts of millions around the world. The song’s soulful melody, poignant lyrics, and elegant music video have made it a defining work in Sheeran’s career and a staple in the genre of love songs. As a testament to the enduring power of love and romance, “Perfect” will continue to resonate with audiences for years to come, solidifying its place in the annals of music history.