Ed Sheeran recently sat down with actor Barry Keoghan on Complex’s GOAT Talk series and surprised fans by naming some of rap’s most legendary albums as his all time favorites. For Sheeran, the magic of Dr. Dre’s Aftermath run is unmatched, and he credits that era with shaping his love for the genre.
The singer immediately gave props to the Aftermath, Shady, and G-Unit wave, highlighting 50 Cent’s Get Rich or Die Tryin’, The Game’s The Documentary, Eminem’s The Marshall Mathers LP, and Dr. Dre’s 2001 as timeless projects he can throw on in any situation.
His connection to Eminem’s work runs even deeper. Sheeran has often spoken about how The Marshall Mathers LPhelped him overcome a childhood stutter. Speaking to Howard Stern, he recalled how his uncle told his father to play him Eminem, calling the Detroit legend “the next Bob Dylan.” Sheeran memorized the verses word for word, rapping them nonstop until his stutter faded away.
Keoghan co-signed with Get Rich or Die Tryin’, which sparked Sheeran to share a vivid memory tied to the project. He recalled being in Italy with his father, blasting the record in the summer heat, shirtless and drinking beer, while breaking down the brilliance of “If I Can’t” and its unique chorus structure. For Sheeran, those albums were not just soundtracks but also blueprints for artistry.
Over the years, Sheeran’s bond with Eminem has grown into a working relationship. The two have recorded three tracks together and even shared festival stages twice. Sheeran said he feels a kinship with Eminem because of his private nature, his grounded lifestyle, and the way he keeps his circle tight back home.
Even 50 Cent has taken notice of Sheeran’s love for rap. At one point, Fif reposted a clip of Sheeran’s acoustic take on “In Da Club” during a Los Angeles show, writing, “Ed Sheeran right now in LA at the John Mayer concert killing shit! BOOM.”
For Sheeran, hip hop has always been more than inspiration. It’s been a teacher, shaping his creative approach and keeping him connected to the legends who first fueled his passion for music.