“Beautiful People” by Ed Sheeran (ft. Khalid)

“Beautiful People” is the title of a collaboration between English singer Ed Sheeran and American R&B singer Khalid. The lyrics of this collabo center on one very important thing – being utterly true to yourself. The song encourages listeners to fight against the temptation of becoming one of those people whose lives center around material things. In the song, Sheeran and Khalid refer to these people as “beautiful people”.

The adjective “beautiful” is used in a super ironic manner throughout the song. These “beautiful people”, the artists talk about represents the celebrities, the rich and the famous in society. According to the song’s chorus, this group of people appear to live an enviable life but aren’t as happy as they appear. From a distance, their flamboyant lifestyles might appear fun but behind the scenes, they are dealing with a lot of ugly things. Simply put, behind the beauty they project to the world, there’s plenty of ugliness and sadness. These “beautiful people” are constantly surrounded by legions of people. However, they are alone and sad. Their lives aren’t just as happy as the average person thinks they are.

Owing to this, Sheeran doesn’t want to be in their world. Sheeran wants to be himself. He wants to be true to himself. Never do he and his team want to be member of the “beautiful people”. Hence the line: “We are not beautiful” from the song’s post chorus. He goes on to encourage all who would listen to be true to themselves, for the world of the beautiful people is a boring and sad world.

Facts about “Beautiful People”

•  This collborative song is the third single Sheeran released from his critically acclaimed duets album titled No 6 Collaborations Project. “I Don’t Care” (ft. Justin Bieber) and “Cross Me” (ft. PnB Rock and Chance the Rapper) were the first and second singles released from that project.
• “Beautiful People” served as the maiden collaboration between Khalid and Sheeran.
• Approximately five songwriters (including Khalid and Sheeran) are credited with penning “Beautiful People”. The other three writers are: Max Martin, Fred Gibson and Shellback.
• Regarding the tune’s production, it was handled by Sheeran alongside three of its co-writers (Martin, Gibson and Shellback).

Music Video of “Beautiful People”

The tune’s music video focuses on an ordinary couple who suddenly find themselves in the flamboyant world of the rich and powerful. Despite all the wealth, glamour and glitz of this world, the couple doesn’t find it impressing. Owing to this, they quickly flee that world and head back to their normal world. Music video director Andy McLeod directed the clip.

Which singer(s) sings the backing vocals on “Beautiful People”?

Songwriter and multi instrumentalist Fred Gibson sings the song’s backing vocals. FYI, he also co-wrote the song and played a variety of instruments on it.

Ed Sheeran’s remarks about working with Khalid and this track

According to Sheeran, Khalid’s “soulful voice” made him the “perfect” singer to be featured on the track. He further expressed his joy of getting the opportunity to work with Khalid. Like was said above, this is the first time both men are working together.