Ed Sheeran’s song “Visiting Hours” is a deeply personal tribute written in honor of his close friend and mentor, Michael Gudinski, a legendary Australian music promoter who passed away unexpectedly in March 2021[1]. Sheeran expressed his grief through this song, wishing that heaven had visiting hours so he could share moments and seek advice from his late friend, reflecting the profound impact Gudinski had on his life.
The song was first performed at Gudinski’s state memorial in Australia, and Sheeran completed writing it while in quarantine prior to the ceremony[2]. The lyrics reveal Sheeran’s longing to discuss life changes with Gudinski, especially about his daughter Lyra, wishing Gudinski could have met her and continued to influence their family[5].
The underlying theme of “Visiting Hours” resonates globally—especially during times when many have felt the acute absence of loved ones due to the pandemic. The absence not only clarifies the value of those lost but also brings forward what they taught us in life, a sentiment Sheeran conveys throughout the song[3]. He notes that the antidote for self-doubt and insecurity lies in the love we create and carry forward, based on the values imparted by those we’ve lost[4].
Sheeran described the song as his acceptance of Gudinski’s passing, yet wishing for just a few more moments with him: “all I want is five more minutes—that’s what the song’s about. It’s about having a visiting hour where you go in and you go, ‘Hey man, I’m gonna see you in 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60 years, whatever it is, I will see you, but before I go, this is what’s going on’”[2].
References
- [1] Ed Sheeran – Visiting Hours [Official Performance Video] – YouTube
- [2] Ed Sheeran Wrote “Visiting Hours” After the Death of His Friend
- [3] Why “Visiting Hours” is Perfect Right Now – dying to meet you
- [4] Analyzing the lyrics: “Visiting hours”, by Ed Sheeran
- [5] Visiting Hours (song) – Wikipedia
Leave a Reply