Thinking Out Loud (Ed Sheeran)

Thinking Out Loud rhythm arrangement by Bill Fulton is scored for 2 keyboards, guitar, bass, and drums. The arrangement adapts the Ed Sheeran song for five live musicians while retaining its melody, groove, and relaxed character.

Thinking Out Loud Rhythm Arrangement

“Thinking Out Loud” combines a memorable vocal melody with a laid-back rhythmic feel. Those qualities make the groove especially important. This arrangement uses the five instruments to preserve that foundation while creating a broader live sound.

Two keyboard parts provide extra harmonic and tonal possibilities. Guitar remains an important part of the texture. Bass and drums then establish the pocket and connect the ensemble.

Scored for 2 Keyboards, Guitar, Bass and Drums

Contemporary popular music often relies on layers created during studio production. A live arrangement must translate those ideas into playable instrumental parts. Two keyboards make it possible to cover a wider range of sounds while still leaving musical space for the guitar.

Bill Fulton has arranged music for rhythm sections, big bands, little big bands, orchestras, and chamber ensembles. Explore additional projects on the Arrangements, Compositions & Commissions page.

For more information about the original recording artist, visit the official Ed Sheeran website.

Contemporary Pop for Five Live Musicians

The Thinking Out Loud rhythm arrangement brings the song into a five-piece live setting without requiring a large ensemble. Each keyboard can handle a different musical role. Guitar adds its characteristic texture, while bass and drums maintain the groove.

The resulting instrumentation is compact but versatile. With 2 keyboards, guitar, bass, and drums, the musicians have enough tonal range to create a complete arrangement while preserving the character of the song.

Year: 2015
Job Category: Arranger
Title: Thinking Out Loud (Ed Sheeran)
Ensemble: 2 keyboardists, guitar, bass, drums
Client: Engelbert Humperdinck
Description: co-arranger with Jeff Sturges
Get arrangement: link to arrangement (pending)