Ed Sheeran, the global music phenomenon, is renowned for his captivating hits and stripped-down, yet powerful live performances. Acoustic guitar and loop pedal are not just instruments for Sheeran; they are the very essence of his distinctive sound. From humble beginnings to stadium stages, Sheeran’s guitar choices have played a pivotal role in shaping his career. Let’s explore the guitars that have become synonymous with Ed Sheeran’s musical journey.
Sheeran’s Guitar Beginnings: The Dean Performer E and Martin’s Allure
Sheeran’s initial foray into the world of acoustic guitars saw him wielding a Dean Performer E. This guitar served as his trusty companion in his early days, helping him hone his craft. However, it wasn’t long before the allure of C.F. Martin & Co. guitars caught his attention. Martin guitars, with their rich heritage and exceptional sound quality, became a significant influence on Sheeran’s evolving musical style. He was particularly drawn to the dreadnought style Martins, known for their full, resonant tone.
Alt text: Ed Sheeran performing live with his signature Martin LX1E acoustic guitar, highlighting its compact size and stage presence.
The Martin LX1 Little Martin emerged as a particularly impactful instrument in Sheeran’s early career. Its smaller body size offered exceptional portability, making it ideal for his busking days and constant travels. Despite its diminutive size, the LX1 Little Martin delivered a surprisingly rich and resonant sound, perfectly complementing Sheeran’s percussive playing style and vocal delivery.
The Martin LX1E: An Affordable Icon for a Rising Star
As Sheeran’s star began to ascend, he gravitated towards the Martin LX1E. This model retained the appealing portability of the LX1 but incorporated enhanced features that made it even more suitable for professional performance. The LX1E’s construction featured High-Pressure Laminate (HPL) material, known for its durability and resilience to varying climates – a crucial factor for a touring musician. Furthermore, the inclusion of Fishman Isys T electronics allowed Sheeran to amplify his signature acoustic sound without compromising its natural warmth and clarity. The Martin LX1E became, and remains, a cornerstone of Ed Sheeran’s signature sound.
Alt text: Detailed view of a Martin LX1E guitar headstock showcasing the iconic C.F. Martin & Co. logo, emphasizing the brand’s quality and heritage in acoustic instruments.
Sheeran by Lowden: A Collaboration Born from Stardom
Ed Sheeran’s meteoric rise to global superstardom opened doors to collaborations with renowned luthiers. George Lowden, celebrated for his exquisite handcrafted guitars, partnered with Sheeran to create the “Sheeran by Lowden” line. This collaboration marked a significant step in Sheeran’s guitar journey, allowing him to design instruments tailored to his specific preferences and playing style.
The Sheeran by Lowden range features distinct models, each bearing names inspired by Sheeran’s album titles, such as “Subtract” and “Equals.” These guitars showcase premium materials and meticulous craftsmanship. For instance, the Subtract model often incorporates Indian Rosewood and a Sitka Spruce top, while the Equals edition may feature walnut back and sides. The Autumn Variations model further expands the sonic palette with walnut and sinker Redwood.
Alt text: Elegant Sheeran by Lowden acoustic guitar displaying its natural wood grain and handcrafted details, representing the collaboration between Ed Sheeran and George Lowden.
Sheeran by Lowden guitars are designed to offer exceptional playability and rich, resonant tones, catering to musicians of all levels. While positioned as premium instruments, they also aim to be accessible, reflecting Sheeran’s desire to inspire aspiring guitarists. For players seeking top-tier quality, the Sheeran by Lowden W02 Acoustic Guitar stands out as a testament to the collaboration’s commitment to excellence.
The Enduring Appeal of the Little Martin
Despite the introduction of his signature Sheeran by Lowden line, the Martin LX1E continues to hold a special place in Ed Sheeran’s arsenal. While he has been seen playing Taylor guitars occasionally, it’s the “Little Martin” that remains truly iconic and deeply connected to his public image. Its compact size, combined with its impressive sonic capabilities, has solidified its status as a favorite among musicians worldwide, not just Ed Sheeran fans. The Martin LX1E’s ongoing production ensures that aspiring musicians can still access a guitar that played a significant role in shaping Sheeran’s distinctive sound.
Conclusion: Ed Sheeran’s Guitars as a Reflection of His Musical Evolution
Ed Sheeran’s journey with guitars mirrors his artistic growth, evolving from a determined busker to a global music icon. From his early days with the Dean Performer E and his embrace of the Martin LX1 Little Martin and LX1E, to his collaboration with George Lowden on his signature series, Sheeran’s guitar choices reveal a consistent dedication to quality and instruments that resonate with his musical vision.
Born in Halifax, West Yorkshire, Sheeran’s independent spirit led him to self-release EPs, catching the attention of Elton John in 2011 and launching his extraordinary career. Throughout this journey, he has remained loyal to guitars that deliver both exceptional performance and a sound that is uniquely his. The Martin LX1E and his custom Lowden models are celebrated for their quality, design, and suitability for his dynamic live performances.
Sheeran’s initial signature model, the Martin & Co. LX1E, with its robust HPL construction and Fishman electronics, provided the durability and amplified sound he needed in his formative years. His subsequent Sheeran by Lowden series expands his sonic palette, offering diverse wood combinations like Cedar and Sitka Spruce tops, and catering to a range of tonal preferences. These Irish-made guitars represent a commitment to high-quality craftsmanship while remaining relatively accessible to a wider audience, further cementing Ed Sheeran’s lasting legacy in the world of acoustic guitars and contemporary music. His guitars are not just tools; they are an integral part of his story and his enduring influence on aspiring musicians globally.
