x is the sound of an artist placing a bet on himself and winning the jackpot. It is messy, loud, tender, and incredibly sharp. If you want to understand Ed Sheeran—not the brand, but the musician—start here.

Ten years later, x isn't just a collection of songs; it is the blueprint for modern pop-singer-songwriter success. It is the album where Ed Sheeran proved he wasn't a one-trick pony—he was a thoroughbred.

★★★★½ (Essential listening for any pop fan) Call to Action: What is your favorite track from x ? Is it the chaos of Sing or the tearjerker Photograph ? Drop a comment below and let us know how this album shaped your 2010s playlist. Keywords: Ed Sheeran x album, Multiply review, Ed Sheeran songs, Thinking Out Loud meaning, best pop albums 2014.

Decade of ‘x’: Why Ed Sheeran’s Sophomore Album Remains His Definitive Masterpiece