“A Beautiful Game” by Ed Sheeran

It seems as if of late, the American entertainment industry is becoming increasingly appreciative of the fact that soccer is the most-popular sport in most of the world. For example, despite being filmed in England, Ted Lasso is a series centered on said sport presented by US-based Apple TV, and it has won a number of major awards stateside. 

In fact the series is so much of a hit that they even went about enlisting Ed Sheeran to drop an original song to be featured on the season three finale (an episode titled “So Long, Farewell”), which aired on 31 May 2023. The name of that song is “A Beautiful Game”, which Sheeran co-wrote with Foy Vance and proven hitmaker Max Martin, the latter of whom also produced the track with Ozgo.

And to note, being from England and all, Ed is of course a soccer fan and is more specifically known to support Ipswich Town Football Club, i.e. the professional team from his ‘hood. And he also has stated appreciation for Ted Lasso and having the opportunity to work on this track.

Lyrics of “A Beautiful Game”

All of that said, the “beautiful game” Ed is referring to in the lyrics is actually “love”. However, the wording is fashioned in such a way that it’s up to the listener to determine what type of love he is referring to, in a manner of speaking. It could be that of the romantic variety or perhaps even love for a game, such as how some people are totally enraptured by soccer.

Or let’s say that more the point at hand is the vocalist and addressee apparently striving for a mutual goal. Reading in between the lines, the message of this song is akin to the journey being more cherishable than the destination. In other words, it is hardships which fashion ordinary folks, if you will, into champions.

So as expressed in the second verse, even though they’re taking a loss at the moment, the vocalist is confident that he and the addressee, if they remain faithful and dedicated, will ultimately prevail. And considering that this track is directly associated with a soccer-related series, it can be interpreted that what Sheeran is alluding to, especially in the bridge for instance where the word “love” isn’t present, is reaching a goal such as a sports’ championship.

But by adding “love” to the equation, “A Beautiful Game” is granted more of a general applicability. And conclusively, what it appears the vocalist may be implying is that certain joint goals are only achievable if there is genuine affection between the parties striving for it.

“Out of the embers, we’ll rise from the ashes
Write in the stars with our names (Oh, oh, oh)
That we are here
We are bruised, we are damaged
But the joy was worth the pain
Whoa-oh-oh, love’s a beautiful game”

Your Comments

FRED says:

I added ‘A Beautiful Game’ to my playlist a few days ago, now my once dreaded morning commute to my tiresome job has transformed into a daily anticipation I eagerly look forward to. So far, I’ve adored every film Ed has contributed to. While I haven’t had the chance to watch season 3 of ‘Ted Lasso’ in which this song was featured, I have seen Peter Jackson’s ‘The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug’, which featured Ed’s ‘I See Fire’. Additionally, I have watched Josh Boone’s ‘The Fault in Our Stars’ where Ed’s ‘All of the Stars’ played during its credits. Each of these experiences has been truly exceptional, and I eagerly anticipate seeing more in soon.”

JANET DAWSON says:

“While watching ‘Ted Lasso’, ‘A Beautiful Game’ played at a point. The song’s captivating melody compelled me to pause the film and listen to the full version. It turns out that Ed actually recorded a very beautiful song for one of the most heartwarming series in the world. I express my gratitude to the talented composers Foy Vance, Max Martin, and Ed himself for crafting such a beautiful song.”

THE BOXER says:

“This is truly a masterpiece. As a fan of both football, the Ted Lasso series as well as someone who appreciates Ed’s music, the song never fails to evoke strong emotions within me. What particularly touches my heart about this song is the enchanting backing vocals. I vividly recall a memorable moment during a concert in Amsterdam in 2022 which was part of Ed’s Mathematics tour. At the event, Ed involved the audience in practicing these vocals. Although I’m uncertain if the recorded version includes our contributions or if he attempted it again in another city. It was undoubtedly a phenomenal experience.”

BRITTANY says:

“I hear ‘A Beautiful Game’ is part of the soundtrack of season 3 of Jason Sudeikis’ drama series ‘Ted Lasso’. I am yet to watch any episode of the said comedy-drama series but to me, the song portrays a theme of resilience and rising from difficult situations. The lyrics, ‘Out of the embers, we’ll rise from the ashes’ gives me a sense of strength and transformation. The song is catchy and uplifting, emphasizing the idea that despite being bruised and damaged, the joy experienced in achieving success makes it all worthwhile. Overall, the lyrics convey a message of perseverance, acknowledging the challenges faced but also embracing the beauty and power of love.”