How to Practice Thinking Out Loud

Ed Sheeran's 'Thinking Out Loud' is the most-streamed wedding-first-dance song of the 2010s. The smooth groove, the simple chord changes, and the confident vocal make it a staple for cover bands and acoustic acts alike.
Song Details
- Key
- D
- Tempo
- 79 BPM
- Time
- 4/4
- Style
- boom-chuck
Structure
What to Focus On
Smooth strumming with a slight swing feel. Chord changes through D major with diatonic borrowings. Confident, soulful singing on the chorus.
Practice Tips
- 1
The rhythm has a swing feel — practice the strum pattern slowly to internalize it.
- 2
The chord progression cycles through D major. Master it once and the rest is dynamics.
- 3
The vocal sits comfortably in most ranges. Sing it confidently.
Why This Song
It's the modern wedding-dance standard — every cover band has it in their book.
Practice Thinking Out Loud Daily
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