What makes South of the Border by Ed Sheeran notable?

The track gained significant attention due to its collaboration with Latin artist Camila Cabello and rapper Cardi B, contributing to the growing trend of cross-genre collaborations in mainstream music. It peaked at number 6 on the Billboard Hot 100, highlighting Sheeran's ability to blend genres and appeal to diverse audiences. By the time 'South of the Border' was released in July 2019, Ed Sheeran had solidified his status as a global pop icon following his massively successful album '÷ (Divide)' from 2017. This release came during a period when he was exploring collaborations with international artists, expanding his sound beyond traditional pop.

How many songs are on South of the Border?

South of the Border has 1 track, running approximately 3 minutes.

South of the Border

Ed Sheeran · 2019

3 min · 1 track · alternative rock

A vibrant fusion of pop and Latin rhythms that showcases Ed Sheeran's versatility and global influences.

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Top tracks — play these first

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South of the Border — This track stands out for its infectious blend of pop melodies and Latin-inspired rhythms, marking Sheeran's embrace of global influences while maintaining his signature sound.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

45 /100

Lowland

Higher than 5% of albums we've rated

The track combines pop and Latin elements effectively but follows familiar structures in its genre.

What we noticed

Ed Sheeran's vocal delivery alternates between smooth singing and rhythmic rap sections, particularly during Cardi B's verse.
The production incorporates brass instruments and layered harmonies that enhance the vibrant feel of the song.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 4/10

Influence 3/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Showcases Ed's versatility and collaboration trend, reinforcing his global pop icon status.
Themes: Latin-inspired rhythms· global pop collaboration
Career context: By the time 'South of the Border' was released in July 2019, Ed Sheeran had solidified his status as a global pop icon following his massively successful album '÷ (Divide)' from 2017. This release came during a period when he was exploring collaborations with international artists, expanding his sound beyond traditional pop.
Stylistic neighbors: Passenger· Ben Howard· Hozier