Did Ed Sheeran Open for Taylor Swift? The Question That Sparked a Debate
The music industry has always been a platform for collaboration and support among artists. One such collaboration that sparked a significant debate was when Ed Sheeran, a rising star at the time, opened for Taylor Swift on her Red Tour in 2013. The question “Did Ed Sheeran open for Taylor Swift?” became a topic of discussion among fans and critics alike, as they weighed the impact of this collaboration on both artists’ careers.
Taylor Swift, known for her storytelling and heartfelt lyrics, had already gained a massive following by the time Ed Sheeran joined her on tour. With his catchy tunes and relatable lyrics, Sheeran had been making waves in the music scene. The decision to have Sheeran open for Swift was a strategic move, as it allowed both artists to reach a broader audience and showcase their unique talents.
During the Red Tour, Ed Sheeran performed a set of his own songs, while also joining Taylor Swift on stage for several duets. This included their hit duet “Everything Has Changed,” which became a fan favorite. The chemistry between the two artists was undeniable, and their performances were often met with roaring applause and standing ovations.
However, the question of whether Ed Sheeran “opened” for Taylor Swift sparked a debate among fans and critics. Some argued that, despite performing his own set, Sheeran was still effectively opening for Swift, as he was the first act on the bill and helped to warm up the crowd. Others believed that since he had his own headlining tour at the time, he should not be considered an opener.
The debate extended beyond the Red Tour, as Ed Sheeran’s career continued to soar. He released his debut album, “+x,” in 2011, followed by “Multiply” in 2014, which included the chart-topping hit “Shape of You.” Despite his growing success, the question of whether he opened for Taylor Swift remained a point of contention.
Supporters of the “opener” argument pointed out that Ed Sheeran’s set was shorter than Taylor Swift’s, and that he was not given the same level of billing as the headliner. They believed that this indicated he was indeed opening for her. On the other hand, critics of the argument noted that Ed Sheeran had already headlined his own tours and had a significant fan base, which made him more than just an opener.
Ultimately, the question of whether Ed Sheeran opened for Taylor Swift may never be definitively answered. What is clear, however, is that the collaboration between the two artists was a significant moment in their careers. It allowed Ed Sheeran to reach new heights, while also showcasing Taylor Swift’s ability to support emerging talent. The debate over the title of “opener” may have raged on, but the undeniable chemistry and talent between Ed Sheeran and Taylor Swift will always be remembered as a memorable part of the Red Tour.
