Chesney Hawkes Reflects on Turning Down Early Ed Sheeran Collaboration

Table of Contents

1. Key Highlights
2. Introduction
3. The Missed Opportunity
4. “Living Arrows”: A Labour of Love
5. The Resurgence of Chesney Hawkes
6. Looking Forward
7. FAQ

Key Highlights

• Chesney Hawkes, known for his hit "The One and Only," declined an early collaboration opportunity with Ed Sheeran when Sheeran was still an emerging artist.
• The collaboration suggestion came from producer Jake Gosling, who was working with both artists.
• Hawkes emphasizes the personal significance of his latest album, "Living Arrows," which includes a heartfelt tribute to a late friend.
• Amid a successful UK tour with James Blunt, Hawkes discusses the evolution of his musical journey and his connection with fans over new material.

Introduction

In 2011, a 20-year-old Ed Sheeran appeared at the open mic nights in London, barely scraping by and sleeping on friends' couches, unaware of the stardom that awaited him. Fast forward over a decade, and he stands as one of pop music’s most prominent figures, with chart-topping hits and a legion of devoted fans. Yet, in a twist of fate that underscores the unpredictable nature of the music industry, Chesney Hawkes—an artist who shot to fame with his iconic single “The One and Only”—revealed that he once turned down a chance to collaborate with Sheeran when the latter was still a rising star. This anecdote not only highlights the often overlooked crossroads artists face in their careers but also delves into the personal significance of Hawkes' new work and explores themes of connection and resurgence.

The Missed Opportunity

Hawkes recently recounted his decision to decline a production session involving Sheeran during an interview with The Sun’s Bizarre column. According to Hawkes, his producing partner, Jake Gosling, suggested they work together with Sheeran, who was then struggling to find his footing in the music scene. “I said: ‘Ed who? I’m working with A1 now,’ like I was Mr. big b*******,” Hawkes recalled.

This story serves as a poignant reminder of the often precarious nature of artistic credibility and ambition. At the time, Hawkes had been heavily invested in producing music for established names such as Kylie Minogue, leading him to dismiss the opportunity presented by Sheeran.

The Consequences of Timing

While it’s easy to speculate about what might have been had Hawkes accepted the collaboration, his decision underscores a broader conversation in the music industry about the importance of timing. Often, artists find themselves at a crossroads where they must weigh their current standing against prospective opportunities that may seem less glamorous.

Musical trajectories can change dramatically, and the story serves as a microcosm of an industry riddled with ‘what ifs.’ The late 2000s to early 2010s was a unique juncture in pop culture, marked by the transition from traditional music distribution to the emergence of digital platforms that propelled artists like Sheeran to mainstream success.

“Living Arrows”: A Labour of Love

Chesney Hawkes’ new album, "Living Arrows," released on April 4, 2025, serves as a reflection of his journey over the past few years. Hawkes describes the album as a “labour of love,” a project he dedicated countless hours to, especially during pandemic lockdowns when creating music became both a refuge and a necessity.

The making of "Nobody Like You," one of the standout tracks from the album, was emblematic of Hawkes' artistic evolution. “We wrote it in 20 minutes in the garden, then got the beers out,” he shared, emphasizing the blend of spontaneity and creativity that often characterizes his work with Gosling. This light-hearted collaboration was instrumental in driving him toward producing the entire album.

Themes of Tribute and Resilience

One of the album's most moving tracks, "The Meaning of This," acts as a heartfelt tribute to his late friend Kiersty Rouge, known professionally as Kiki. Kiki, who tragically took her own life in 2016, played a significant role in Hawkes' life and artistic journey. His emotional connection to the song highlights a theme of resilience that runs throughout "Living Arrows." Hawkes reflected on Kiki’s influence, stating, “Her death hit us so hard as a family. It took me a long time, but I knew I had a song in me for her.” This emotional depth provided a substantial foundation for the album, underscoring the ways in which personal loss can transform into creative expression.

The Journey Back to Performing

As he reconnects with his fans through an extensive UK tour alongside James Blunt, Hawkes finds himself reflecting on the unique bond he shares with fellow artists labelled as ‘One-Hit Wonders.’ Both he and Blunt have faced scrutiny regarding the longevity of their careers, often reduced to a single song in the public perception.

During this collaborative tour, the artists have forged a connection over their experiences of being detached from their broader discographies. “We bonded over what we have in common—people saying we’ve only got one song. We’re a little bit more self-effacing than a lot of artists," Hawkes shared, emphasizing a shared vulnerability that has marked their creative journeys.

The reception of Hawkes’ new songs at live events has defied those labels. "It’s amazing that I play these new songs, and they’re already singing them back to me!" he expressed, highlighting a delightful interchange between artistry and audience reception that rekindles his passion for performance.

The Resurgence of Chesney Hawkes

Hawkes' trajectory exemplifies a broader revival seen in the music industry, where nostalgic sentiments intermingle with modern sound. His ability to adapt while staying true to his roots reflects an ongoing trend of long-time artists reclaiming relevance through new material, alongside strategic collaborations and performances.

This resurgence has not only been marked by the release of "Living Arrows" but also by his willingness to explore new themes and narratives within his music.

Industry Reflections

As an artist navigating the complexities of the industry, Hawkes' reflections on the choices he made and the paths he did not take offer valuable insights into the realities of a music career. Experts in the field often cite the importance of adaptability, risk-taking, and maintaining an open mind to new talent and opportunities.

Within the context of evolving musical landscapes shaped by social media and streaming platforms, Hawkes' story signals a touching reminder that the journey for artists is as significant as the destination.

Looking Forward

As Hawkes prepares for a solo tour across Europe, he plans to engage audiences not only through his new work but also by sharing his experiences and learnings throughout the years. The balance of nostalgia with innovation creates a unique platform to showcase both old hits and new melodies.

In a time marked by rapid change and unpredictability within the music industry, Hawkes represents a resilient spirit—one that continuously seeks connection with his audience and the art form that shaped his life.

Conclusion

Hawkes' path reflects both the opportunities and challenges artists face in an industry that often places value on novelty over depth. By refusing to marginalize emerging talent early in his career, Hawkes has crafted a narrative that not only honors his past but also preserves his space in present conversations within the music scene.

As "Living Arrows" gains traction among listeners, Chesney Hawkes emerges once more as a relevant voice, ready to captivate both long-time fans and new audiences alike.

FAQ

What led Chesney Hawkes to turn down Ed Sheeran's collaboration?
Hawkes was focused on working with established artists at the time and did not see the potential in collaborating with an emerging artist like Sheeran, whom he had never heard of.

When was Hawkes’ new album "Living Arrows" released?
"Living Arrows" was released on April 4, 2025.

What themes are explored in "Living Arrows"?
The album draws on personal experiences, particularly the tribute to his late friend Kiersty Rouge, and explores themes of resilience, loss, and artistic growth.

How has the reception of Hawkes' new material been?
Hawkes has received positive feedback from fans, with many singing along to his new songs during live performances.

What is the significance of Hawkes' tour with James Blunt?
The tour provides an opportunity for both artists to connect over their experiences of being perceived as ‘One-Hit Wonders,’ allowing them to share their stories and music with fans.

What can audiences expect from Hawkes’ upcoming solo tour in Europe?
Audiences can expect a mix of classic hits and his new material, alongside insights into his musical journey and creative process.