Forget award show snubs and questionable conservatorships, here’s a new twist on Britney Spears! Ed Sheeran, the ginger prince of Pop, just dropped a truth bomb (a sad reality) about the Princess of Pop, and it’s leaving us scratching our heads. 

Singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran at the 68th Berlin International Film Festival 2018Harald Krichel
Singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran at the 68th Berlin International Film Festival 2018 | Wikimedia/Harald Krichel

Buckle up, because this isn’t your typical “Baby One More Time” singalong. We’re diving into a reality check about Britney’s music that might just have you reaching for a metaphorical mic to drop yourself. 

Does Ed Sheeran’s praise unveil a lost legacy for Britney Spears?  

Ed Sheeran, V Festival 2014, ChelmsfordDrew de F Fawkes
Ed Sheeran during his performance at V Festival 2014, Chelmsford | Wikimedia/Drew de F Fawkes

Ed Sheeran, the reigning king of memorable melodies, shocked everyone with a recent revelation. During a conversation with Pop Crave, the Shape of You singer declared, rather unexpectedly, that Britney Spears‘ first single, “Baby One More Time,” was not only a pop classic but might even be among the best songs ever composed. 

Sheeran’s audacious claim that “there’s no better debut song. I think [it] is the top 2 or 3 best songs ever written,” has rekindled conversations about Britney’s legacy. The catch is that, although it sounds like wonderful praise, it can unintentionally draw attention to a depressing fact about the Toxic vocalist. 

Britney Spears is an artistically fulfilled and empowered woman who continuously creates unforgettable musical hits. Her raw talent, coupled with the guidance she (perhaps) lacked, could have produced a musical legacy on par with the pop aristocracy. Fans have agreed with Sheeran’s comment, stating, “And he’s correct!”

However, Ed Sheeran’s remark made us long for the unrealized potential and unwritten parts of Britney’s artistic journey. It highlights the awful reality: a fascinating voice silenced, a career that rose to great heights but was unfortunately cut short. 

This is not meant to take away from Britney’s accomplishments or Sheeran’s respect. Reminiscent of what might have been, it’s a heartfelt “what if” that reverberates in the infectious tune of “…Baby One More Time.” Although the song is ageless, it also acts as a melancholic echo of a future that never came to be.

Ed Sheeran on his upcoming projects

Singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran at the 68th Berlin International Film Festival 2018Harald Krichel
Singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran at the 68th Berlin International Film Festival 2018 | Wikimedia/Harald Krichel

In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE during the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation Gala at Dodgers Stadium on May 2, Ed Sheeran disclosed that he won’t be releasing a new album anytime soon. He stated, 

I’m working on them and they’re new songs. But nothing’s going to come out this year. I’m enjoying being on tour. I released two records on tour last year and it’s quite a lot being on tour and releasing records. So, I’ve made the new music and I’m just going to sit on it for a bit.

Ed Sheeran continues with his legacy even today, but his Britney Spears’ praise does sting a little. While Baby One More Time stays a pop landmark, it also serves as a bittersweet reminder of what could have sculpted a pop legacy.

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