Watch Songwriter

Songwriter is a music documentary film released in 2018 which delves into the intimate and collaborative process of songwriting through the lens of one of the world's most popular and influential musicians, Ed Sheeran. Directed by Murray Cummings, who is Sheeran's cousin, the documentary offers a close and personal look at the creation of songs that would eventually become part of Sheeran's Grammy Award-winning album '÷' (Divide).

The film is an authentic portrait of an artist at work and the relationships that underpin and inspire the creation of music. It is less focused on the glitzy lifestyle often associated with pop stardom and more interested in the bones of the songwriting process, highlighting Ed Sheeran's raw talent and unwavering dedication to his craft.

Songwriter takes the audience behind the scenes to witness the inception, development, and refinement of new music. It cuts across various locations, from Sheeran’s home to studios and beach houses, where creativity flows, and songs emerge. As the camera follows Sheeran, viewers observe not just his direct input but the significant and often understated contributions of collaborators.

A key component of the documentary is its emphasis on the creative chemistry between Ed Sheeran and his close-knit group of fellow musicians and songwriters, including Irish folk band Beoga and the prolific American record producer Benny Blanco. Their interactions provide insight into the modern songwriting process and emphasize the value of teamwork and friendship in producing a hit. Each person's input, whether it is a lyrical suggestion, a melody line, or a specific instrumental addition, illustrates the piecemeal assembly of a track, something that usually remains invisible to fans.

A substantial portion of the film showcases Sheeran's affinity for musical experimentation and his ability to combine genres and sounds in innovative ways. This is seen in his work with Beoga, where the melding of traditional Irish influences with contemporary pop takes shape and gives rise to an altogether unique and catchy rhythm. The contrast between Blanco's more digital-focused production style and Sheeran's acoustic leanings is also explored, demonstrating the range of Sheeran's musical palette and his voracious appetite for diverse influences.

Furthermore, Songwriter highlights the emotion and personal history that often drive Sheeran's lyrics. It gives viewers a glimpse into his thought process and the events in his life that shape the narratives of his songs. The documentary displays how Sheeran's authenticity and relatability in lyricism resonate with millions of listeners worldwide. His ability to channel personal stories and wider universal themes into his music is a cornerstone of his songwriting success.

The documentary also pays homage to the people in Sheeran’s life who have played a role in his journey and success. This includes family members who have supported him since his early days as a struggling artist, inspiring many of his heartfelt sentiments that permeate his music. The presence of his family adds depth to the understanding of Sheeran's background and motivations as an artist.

Technically, the film employs an unobtrusive style of filming. The camera often acts as a silent observer, allowing for natural and unscripted moments to unfold. This approach benefits in privileging the organic moments of inspiration and creativity that can be elusive and challenging to document. The footage is complemented by candid interviews and discussions between Sheeran and his collaborators, offering additional context and insight.

The soundtrack of the film, of course, is heavily laden with Sheeran's music, both in its finished form and through raw snippets captured during the songwriting sessions. This duality presents a fascinating before-and-after perspective on the music and serves to illustrate the journey each song undertakes before reaching the listener.

Songwriter is a film that offers an insider view not exclusively to Sheeran's fans but also to aspiring musicians and songwriters, as it reveals the dedication, talent, and sheer work that goes into making music. It is a testament to the creative spirit and an inspirational piece for anyone interested in the mechanics and heart behind hit songs. It is an honest portrayal of the art and the person behind the pop phenomenon and provides understanding and appreciation for the intricacies of the songwriting craft.

Songwriter is a 2018 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 24 minutes. It has received mostly poor reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.3 and a MetaScore of 41.