Ed Sheeran has said that Jay-Z once turned down a guest verse on “Shape of You”, which was released as a lead single on Ed’s third studio album, Divide, Music News reports.
The outlet states that while speaking to Rolling Stone for his March cover story, the “Shape of You” singer pointed out that he originally asked the rapper to collaborate with him on his 2017 hit.
“We were in touch,” Ed is quoted as telling the outlet. “I sent him the song, and he said, ‘I don’t think the song needs a rap verse.’ He was probably right.”
He praised Jay-Z, “He’s got a very, very good ear,” adding that he “usually gets things right”.
The singer also clarified, “It was a very natural, respectful pass.”
“Shape of You” went on to spend 12 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100’s top spot, and earned a Grammy for best pop solo performance.
