The Meaning Behind The Song: Wake Me Up by Ed Sheeran

Introduction

Ed Sheeran is known for his poignant and thought-provoking lyrics that strike a chord with listeners all around the world. His music has the power to bring out deep emotions and connect with people on a personal level. One of his most popular songs, “Wake Me Up,” which was released in 2011, is no exception.

In this article, we will explore the meaning behind the song “Wake Me Up” by Ed Sheeran. From the lyrics to the music, we will dive deep into what inspired this hit song that has touched the hearts of millions.

The Lyrics

The lyrics of “Wake Me Up” are raw and honest, encapsulating feelings of love, loss, and longing. The song is about two people who love each other but are going through a rocky patch in their relationship. During this time of uncertainty, the protagonist of the song feels lost and unsure of what the future holds.

The opening lines of the song set the tone for the rest of the lyrics:

“I should ink my skin with your name
And take my passport out again
And just replace it
See, I could do without a tan
On my left hand
Where my fourth finger meets my knuckle”

These lines express the protagonist’s desire to commit to the relationship fully. They are willing to wear their love like a tattoo and travel anywhere in the world to be with the person they love.

As the song progresses, we see the protagonist grappling with the reality of their situation. The line “I can’t tell you the truth about my dreams” hints that they are keeping something hidden from their partner. They are struggling to be entirely honest, which is causing them pain.

The lines “I’ll be waiting for you to make your move” suggest that the protagonist is giving their partner the power to turn things around. They are willing to wait for them to take the lead and make things right.

The Music

The music of “Wake Me Up” has a mellow and soothing quality that complements the lyrics. It features acoustic guitar, piano, and percussion, creating a laid-back and intimate atmosphere. The tempo is slow, allowing listeners to savor the lyrics and connect with the emotion behind the song.

At the same time, the music has a catchy melody that stays with listeners long after the song has ended. The chorus, in particular, is incredibly memorable, with its simple yet effective wordplay:

“Because we’re just under the upper hand
And go mad for a couple of grams
And she don’t want to go outside tonight
And in a pipe she flies to the Motherland
Or sells love to another man”

The use of repetition in the chorus drives home the message of the song. As listeners, we are reminded that even though the couple is going through a rough patch, they still love each other and are willing to fight for their relationship.

The Meaning

The meaning behind “Wake Me Up” is multi-faceted and open to interpretation. At its core, the song is about love and the struggles that come with it. It encapsulates the ups and downs of a relationship, from the heady beginnings to the moments of doubt and insecurity.

The lyrics of the song also speak to the universal human experience of feeling lost and alone. The lines “I’m not afraid of anything” and “I’m not afraid of what I would find when I peel the layers back” suggest that the protagonist is trying to explore their innermost feelings and confront their fears.

Ultimately, “Wake Me Up” is a song about hope. Despite the challenges, the protagonist is willing to fight for their relationship and is holding onto the belief that things will work out in the end.

FAQs

What inspired Ed Sheeran to write “Wake Me Up”?

Ed Sheeran has not explicitly stated what inspired him to write the song. However, it is believed to have been based on personal experiences and observations of those around him. In an interview, Sheeran said that “Wake Me Up” was one of the first songs he ever wrote and that it reflected his honest feelings at the time.

What did Ed Sheeran mean by the line “In a pipe she flies to the Motherland”?

The line “In a pipe she flies to the Motherland” is a reference to drug use. It suggests that the protagonist’s partner is using drugs to escape their problems rather than confronting them directly.

Who sings the female vocals in “Wake Me Up”?

The female vocals in “Wake Me Up” are sung by singer-songwriter Lianne La Havas. She has also collaborated with Sheeran on other songs, including “Bloodstream” and “Growing Up.”

What other songs has Ed Sheeran written about relationships?

Ed Sheeran is known for writing many songs about relationships, including “Thinking Out Loud,” “Photograph,” and “Shape of You.” These songs explore different facets of love and romantic relationships, from the joy and fulfillment it brings to the pain and heartbreak that can come with it.

Has “Wake Me Up” won any awards?

“Wake Me Up” has not won any major awards, but it has been nominated for several, including the MTV Europe Music Award for Best UK & Ireland Act in 2012.

What genre does “Wake Me Up” belong to?

“Wake Me Up” is classified as a folk-pop song. It blends elements of acoustic folk music with more contemporary pop influences.

What is the message of “Wake Me Up”?

The message of “Wake Me Up” is that love can be both beautiful and difficult. The song acknowledges the struggles people face in relationships while also holding onto the hope that things will get better.

What is the significance of the chorus of “Wake Me Up”?

The chorus of “Wake Me Up” is significant because it emphasizes the idea that the couple in the song is still in love. Despite their problems, they are willing to fight for their relationship and stay together.

What kind of emotions does “Wake Me Up” evoke in listeners?

“Wake Me Up” evokes a range of emotions in listeners, from nostalgia and sadness to hope and optimism. The lyrics and music of the song are incredibly relatable, and many listeners have found comfort and solace in its message.

What is the most memorable line from “Wake Me Up”?

The most memorable line from “Wake Me Up” is probably “Because we’re just under the upper hand.” This line is repeated several times in the chorus and highlights the theme of struggling in a relationship.

What other songs are similar to “Wake Me Up”?

Other songs that are similar to “Wake Me Up” in terms of subject matter and style include “Stay” by Rihanna ft. Mikky Ekko, “I’m Yours” by Jason Mraz, and “Say You Won’t Let Go” by James Arthur.

Why is “Wake Me Up” such a popular song?

“Wake Me Up” is a popular song because it speaks to people on a personal level. The lyrics and music of the song are relatable and touch upon universal emotions and experiences. Additionally, Ed Sheeran is known for his ability to craft catchy and memorable songs that stay with listeners long after they’ve finished listening.

What is the best way to listen to “Wake Me Up”?

The best way to listen to “Wake Me Up” is in a quiet setting where you can fully immerse yourself in the lyrics and music. Whether you’re listening on headphones or through speakers, take the time to really savor the song and connect with its message.