Ed Sheeran Surprises Fans by Rapping Over Shape of You in Cardiff
Ed Sheeran’s surprise visit to Cardiff left music students thrilled as he joined them for an unforgettable jam session
Ed Sheeran, Cardiff, Music, Kors, MOL Education
Cardiff: Last week, music students in Cardiff were totally blown away when Ed Sheeran popped in to launch his new foundation. He even jammed with some young folks from the Ministry of Life Education’s music program at Eastmoors Youth Centre in Splott.
One of the students, a 21-year-old rapper named Junior, or Kors as he goes by, was in disbelief when he saw Ed. He said, “We were told there would be a VIP guest, but I wasn’t expecting someone that big. It took me back a bit.”
Ed spent some time with Kors, listening to his music. Kors shared, “It’s such a big opportunity, and I still feel a big buzz from it now.”
During the visit, Ed asked the MOL Director, Zippy, to keep playing Kors’ music, even when Zippy tried to turn it down. After chatting with the directors about the importance of alternative music education, Ed met a class of around 40 eager students waiting to see him.
When Ed walked in, student Jordanna said the room “went quiet.” Another student, Ceridwen, was shocked to find out it was really him. Tim, one of the directors, joked that Ed is so down-to-earth that he wasn’t recognized right away.
Ed watched another student, Jessika, perform a cover of one of his songs. Then, she invited him on stage, and they performed Shape of You together. It was a moment to remember!
After that, Ed asked Kors to join them and rap a few bars over the song. Kors called it a “crazy” opportunity and said it’s given him a lot of inspiration. He’s been focusing on his music career while working part-time as stage crew.
Zippy mentioned that since Ed’s visit, Kors has been inspired to volunteer with MOL Education to help other young music lovers in Cardiff. Zippy said the whole experience was “inspiring” for everyone involved.
Ed also took the time to chat with the students about perseverance in music. He encouraged them not to let anyone tell them they can’t achieve their dreams, sharing that he learned more from his failures than his successes.
MOL started back in 2009 when Zippy and Tim wanted to give back to the community. Now, over 70 students are part of the program, which just got a boost from the Ed Sheeran Foundation. They’re excited about the upcoming Cardiff Music Conference, which will be even better thanks to the support.
Zippy expressed gratitude for Ed’s visit, saying it meant the world to them. He emphasized that having Ed meet the students was more valuable than any financial support. This day will be remembered for years to come.
Also joining Ed was songwriter Amy Wadge, who co-wrote Thinking Out Loud with him. She promised to return for some songwriting sessions with the students, which is super exciting!