Ed Sheeran 2023 Tour Review

8 min read

Diving Deep into the Setlist Saga: Uncovering the Best Moments of the Tour

Welcome to a journey through the highlights and hidden gems of a recent memorable tour. We're delving deep into the setlist data, uncovering the standout performances, and sharing insights into the rarest of rare moments. From epic beginnings to grand finales, this tour was a treasure trove of musical milestones. So, let's rewind and relive the best parts of this unforgettable musical adventure!

From Start to Finish: The Tour's Bookends

The tour kicked off with a show that set a high bar for the rest. On January 24, 2023, the first concert took place, leaving an indelible mark with its setlist, ranked as the 10th rarest of the tour. It was an evening where anticipation met reality, and the journey began on a high note.

Fast forward to the grand finale, the tour wrapped up on December 9, 2023. This last concert, with a rarity rank of 19, was not just a culmination but a celebration of all the musical miles traveled. Each song, a story; each performance, a memory – this was a fitting end to an epic musical journey.

Stay tuned as we dive further into the tour's standout moments, the rarest of setlists, and the unforgettable performances that defined this musical odyssey.

The Crown Jewel: The Tour's Top-Rated Concert

The tour's pièce de résistance, the concert that stood out with its unrivaled setlist rarity, took place on August 12, 2023. This concert, held at the iconic Mall of America in Bloomington, Minnesota, was a musical marvel, earning the coveted number 1 spot in rarity. It was not just a concert; it was a rare constellation of unique song selections, making it the most sought-after setlist of the tour. A night where rarity and musical excellence converged, creating an unforgettable experience for every attendee.

A Song Steeped in Nostalgia: The Rarest Performance

Delving into the realm of rare song performances, one stands out with its staggering 3,189 days since it was last played. The song, "Don't / No Diggity / The Next Episode / In Da Club," made a grand re-entry at the Royal Albert Hall in London on November 18, 2023. This performance was not just a song; it was a time capsule, unlocking memories and melodies from the past. The rarity of this performance added a layer of exclusivity, making it a standout moment in the tour.

The Rare Gems: Least Played Songs of the Tour

In every tour, there are those unique songs that make rare appearances, creating exclusive moments for the lucky few. Here's a list of the ten least played songs of the tour, each a rare gem in its own right:

  1. "Lego House" - Played just once, a nostalgic throwback.
  2. "Amazing Grace" - A single soulful rendition.
  3. "Thinking Out Loud / You're Still The One" - A unique blend, performed once.
  4. "Thinking Out Loud / Just Like A Woman" - A one-time special mashup.
  5. "Bad Habits / Shivers / Shape of You" - An exclusive medley.
  6. "I Want It That Way" - A singular Backstreet Boys cover.
  7. "Mr. Brightside" - The Killers' classic, played once.
  8. "Don't/Loyal/No Diggity" - A rare mashup.
  9. "Thinking Out Loud / People Get Ready" - A soulful combination, heard only once.

The Crowd Pleasers: Most Played Songs of the Tour

On the flip side, some songs become the heartbeat of a tour, played at almost every stop. Here are the ten most played songs, the ones that had everyone singing along:

  1. "Eyes Closed" - The tour's anthem with 19 performances.
  2. "Perfect" - A romantic staple, played 18 times.
  3. "Thinking Out Loud" - A fan favorite, 17 renditions.
  4. "Shape of You" - Captivating audiences 14 times.
  5. "Shivers" - Played 12 times, a true crowd-pleaser.
  6. "Bad Habits" - Energizing the crowd, 12 performances.
  7. "Castle on the Hill" - A journey back home, 11 times.
  8. "Bloodstream" - Stirring the soul, 11 renditions.
  9. "The A Team" - A classic, played 8 times.
  10. "Give Me Love" - A heartfelt request, 7 times.

Each song, whether rare or repeated, adds a unique flavor to the tour, creating a mosaic of musical memories.

Special Collaborations: Guest Appearances on the Tour

This tour was graced with some memorable guest performances, adding a unique flair to the already electrifying setlists. Here are the instances where guests joined on stage, creating special moments:

  1. "Life Goes On" with Luke Combs - A special rendition that took the audience by surprise. Experience this unique collaboration at the Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas.

  2. "I Want It That Way" featuring Wildermiss - A delightful surprise, transforming a classic hit. Relive this moment at Santa's Pub in Nashville, Tennessee.

Wrapping Up the Musical Journey

As we look back on this tour, it's clear that each concert, song, and guest appearance wove together to create a rich tapestry of musical experiences. From the rarest setlist performances to the most played anthems, each moment resonated with fans in its own unique way. The presence of guest artists added an extra layer of excitement, making certain performances truly one-of-a-kind. This tour wasn't just about the music; it was a celebration of live performance, connection, and the enduring power of song. Thank you for joining us on this retrospective journey through one of the most memorable tours in recent history.

Back