Ed Sheeran, the British singer-songwriter and global music sensation, has left an indelible mark on the music industry with his heartfelt lyrics, soul-stirring melodies, and unparalleled artistry. From humble beginnings to the pinnacle of success, Sheeran’s musical journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. With his distinct blend of pop, folk, and acoustic sounds, he has captivated millions of fans worldwide, making him one of the most influential and beloved artists of our time.
In this article, we delve into the captivating realm of Ed Sheeran’s discography to unveil the top 10 best songs he has ever created. Each track on this list showcases Sheeran’s exceptional ability to craft emotional narratives, accompanied by melodies that touch the depths of the soul. These songs have not only dominated the charts but have also become anthems for love, heartbreak, self-reflection, and resilience.
Through this musical journey, we will explore the stories behind each of these remarkable compositions, shedding light on the personal experiences, emotions, and inspirations that gave birth to these timeless classics. Whether it’s the raw vulnerability of his ballads, the infectious rhythm of his upbeat tunes, or the intricate guitar work that weaves throughout his songs, Ed Sheeran’s music resonates with listeners on a profound level.
Join us as we celebrate the genius of Ed Sheeran and pay homage to the songs that have defined his career and touched the hearts of millions. Brace yourself for an unforgettable exploration of the top 10 best Ed Sheeran songs of all time, where beauty and brilliance converge to create musical magic.
1. “Thinking Out Loud”
This track is a masterpiece from Ed Sheeran that gained immense popularity upon its release. The soulful, romantic ballad carries a nostalgic essence and highlights the singer's exquisite vocal range. "Thinking Out Loud" showcases Sheeran's songwriting talent and his ability to craft melodies that tug at the heartstrings of listeners. The lyrics convey a message of loving someone till the end of time, making it an instant classic in the world of music.
The song features simple and elegant instrumentation with fingerpicked acoustic guitar chords and delicate percussion. It smoothly transitions into a beautifully orchestrated chorus that sounds like pure magic. The overall feel of the composition makes it perfect for weddings or any other romantic occasions.
Interestingly, "Thinking Out Loud" became one of the first songs to hit 1 billion streams on Spotify worldwide, cementing Sheeran's position as a global superstar. The perfect blend of soulful melody and meaningful lyrics has made this song an evergreen classic among audiences worldwide.
One particular anecdote related to this song involves Ed Sheeran dancing along with World War II veterans at Buckingham Palace during the Queen's Diamond Jubilee concert in 2012. He performed "Wish You Were Here" by Pink Floyd, followed by his signature tune "A-Team," before concluding with "Thinking Out Loud." Seeing those war heroes dance to his music was such an emotional moment for him that he vowed never to forget it.
Ed Sheeran must have been feeling really confident when he wrote 'Perfect', because he named it exactly how we feel about his entire discography.
2. “Perfect”
This acclaimed songwriting work by Ed Sheeran, is a fan favorite and one of his most successful chart-topping hits. The track is emotive with an acoustic guitar chord structure combined with heartfelt lyrics that tell the story of a long-lasting love that forms from youth to old age. The pre-chorus parts of the song emphasize "I'm dancing in the dark with you between my arms." A undoubtedly romantic song.
The track has been commercially successful worldwide, reaching the top spot in several countries and becoming Sheeran's fourth UK number-one after "Sing", "Thinking Out Loud" and "Shape of You". Music critics have applauded this masterpiece for its simple yet effective songwriting. It was also performed on international and national occasions including Prince Harry's wedding reception.
According to sources, 'Perfect' was written as an interpretation of Sheeran's personal romantic life; he wanted to create something genuine that would survive for years. He added that once he finished writing it, he felt like it just fitted into the absolute favorite mix very nicely.
Give me a camera and I'll take a photograph, but give Ed Sheeran a guitar and he'll capture a moment that lasts a lifetime.
3. “Photograph”
This entry on the list of '10 Best Ed Sheeran Songs of All Time' explores a soothing and romantic track named after a very familiar object, "Photograph". The song was released in 2014 as the fifth single from "x" album. Its peaceful intro perfectly sets the mood for a melody that is impossible not to sway along to. The sound of raindrops falling in the background and the emotional lyrics about cherishing loved ones make "Photograph" an unforgettable love ballad.
The song was written by Sheeran himself with producer Jeff Bhasker's help. It is a perfect representation of Sheeran's ability to tangle profound emotions into his music. It features simple yet catchy guitar riffs, slow drum beats, and his raw voice. The simplicity in its composition adds depth to his heartfelt messages that connect with fans all around the world.
What stands out about this track is how relatable it is for people of different ages and nationalities. It speaks directly to the heart, reminiscing all those sweet memories we have captured through pictures and preserved them close to our hearts; a nostalgic vibe that every listener can relate to.
Being one of Sheeran's most beloved songs, missing out on listening to or singing along with "Photograph" can be regrettable. So, hit play on this classic hit from Ed Sheeran's repertoire and let nostalgia and love take over your senses!
Grab a tissue and some ice cream, because Ed Sheeran's "Supermarket Flowers" is about to rip your heart out and stomp on it.
4. “Supermarket Flowers”
This track tugs at the heartstrings as Ed Sheeran narrates a personal experience of losing a loved one from the perspective of his mother. The tender lyrics, backed by delicate piano notes, illustrate the grief and pain felt by those left behind after a loss. The simple yet poignant nature of this song makes it stand out among Sheeran's repertoire. It is a reminder to cherish and appreciate those around us while they are still with us.
In addition to being a beautiful tribute to his late grandmother, “Supermarket Flowers” also showcases Sheeran's skillful storytelling abilities. By utilizing everyday objects associated with grief – supermarket flowers – he creates an emotional connection with the listener. This song will resonate with anyone who has experienced loss and serves as an uplifting reminder that love transcends even death.
The way that Sheeran delivers “Supermarket Flowers” elicits emotive responses from listeners across all ages and backgrounds. Through powerful lyricism and haunting melody, Sheeran encapsulates the sorrow of losing someone close in ways that deeply connect with audiences worldwide. This song should not be missed, especially for fans who want to feel all the feels.
Don't miss out on experiencing the raw emotion of “Supermarket Flowers” – one of Ed Sheeran's most heartfelt tunes to date. Allow yourself to feel vulnerable and embrace the power of music in capturing moments of pure human emotion.
Ed Sheeran's 'Shape of You' has been stuck in my head for so long, I'm starting to think it's shaped like a permanent earworm.
5. “Shape of You”
This global hit "Shape of You" by Ed Sheeran showcases his versatility as an artist. Its infectious beat, catchy lyrics and underlying romantic theme make it a fan favourite. The track amassed immense success worldwide, topping charts in multiple countries and has been streamed billions of times online. It's no wonder this song remains one of Sheeran's most iconic creations.
In addition to its widespread appeal, "Shape of You" is unique for the way it blends genres such as pop, R&B and tropical house sounds. This significantly contributes to its cross-generational appeal. Moreover, the song was accompanied by a music video that features elements of martial arts and dance forms showing off Sheeran's dedication to his art and his eye for detail.
Overall, "Shape of You," has cemented itself as a modern classic in the music industry. Its universal appeal and stunning combination of different genres are impressive. To brush over this masterpiece would be missing out on what could be considered one of Ed Sheeran's greatest tracks ever written.
Ed Sheeran's 'Bad Habits' is like a guilty pleasure snack – it's addictively catchy and you're pretty sure it's not good for you, but you just can't resist.
6. “Bad Habits”
This track is a brilliant masterpiece by Ed Sheeran, portraying his musical versatility in electronic dance music. It's perfect for parties and club nights with its upbeat tempo and addictive chorus. The song "Bad Habits" also talks about breaking bad habits but still falling victim to them. The lyrics are relatable yet witty, and Sheeran's vocals are captivating.
Moreover, the song was released on June 2021, as the lead single of his upcoming album, making it the latest addition to his discography. It's received praise from fans and critics worldwide for its unique sound and groovy beats.
Pro Tip: Try listening to this song with good-quality headphones or speakers to appreciate the intricate beats and production.
Despite the song's somber subject matter, 'The A Team' still manages to make me want to dance, cry, and start a revolution all at the same time.
7. “The A Team”
This particular Ed Sheeran song received immense appreciation for its soulful lyrics and emotional depth. It showcases the story of a girl struggling with drug addiction, and the protagonist's attempts to help her. "The A Team" has a captivating melody and heartfelt portrayal, making it one of Ed Sheeran's best works.
Continuing with our countdown, at number six we have another fan favorite – "Photograph." This song depicts nostalgia and longing perfectly with its relatable lyrics and soothing harmony. The simple yet beautiful tune remains one of Ed Sheeran's most popular songs even after years of its release.
It is worth noting that while many of Ed Sheeran's songs revolve around love, he also touches upon various socio-cultural issues through his music. "Take it Back," from his earlier work, is an excellent example of this. The song talks about the state of modern rap music and offers a fresh perspective on the genre.
Don't miss out on these amazing tracks by Ed Sheeran! Indulge in the heartwarming melodies and thought-provoking lyrics to get closer to one of Britain's greatest contemporary musicians.
Listening to 'Happier' will make you feel like you're watching a rom-com starring Ed Sheeran and a heartbroken puppy.
8. “Happier”
This track, which appears on the album 'Divide', is one of Ed Sheeran's most emotional and heart-rending songs. Through poignant lyrics and soulful melody, “Happier” depicts a bittersweet story of love, regret and moving on. With its stripped-down arrangement and powerful vocals, it showcases Sheeran's gift for crafting deeply personal ballads that resonate with his audience.
The song touches upon the trying phase of moving on from an ex-partner but coming to terms with unrequited love. Its lyrics carry a sad undertone that is emotionally charged up with Sheeran's emotive vocals. The sombre guitar melodies highlight the depth of emotions conveyed in this song.
In his unconventional narrative pattern style, Sheeran took inspiration from real-life stories of people he knew and painted a picture that resonates with many people worldwide.
Pro Tip: To get the most out of “Happier”, listen carefully to the intimate details in the lyrics. Sit back, relax and let this cathartic track take you on an emotional journey that may help release all your pent-up feelings regarding past relationships.
Listening to 'Shivers' gives me chills, and not just because Ed Sheeran sings about his exes more than Taylor Swift.
9. “Shivers”
This song, from Ed Sheeran's latest album "Equals," showcases his signature blend of heartfelt lyrics and catchy melodies. With its upbeat rhythm and infectious chorus, "Shivers" is sure to become a fan favorite. The song marks another milestone in the singer-songwriter's successful career as it continues to climb the charts. In an interview with Rolling Stone, Sheeran revealed that he wrote "Shivers" while he was in quarantine and it reflects his experience during the pandemic.
Ed Sheeran's 'Sing' is the perfect song to blast when you're feeling confident enough to sing like nobody's listening, even though your neighbors definitely are.
10. “Sing”
This track secured a place on the list of the 10 best Ed Sheeran songs of all time. "Sing" is an upbeat, pop-fueled track that marked a dramatic shift in Sheeran's musical style. Written with Pharrell Williams, it showcases Sheeran's willingness to experiment with different genres while staying true to his unique sound.
The catchy chorus and addictive beat made this song an instant hit, reaching the top ten in several countries including the UK and US. The lyrics describe a night out where Sheeran has a wild time drinking and dancing with a girl he meets at a club.
Interestingly, "Sing" was originally written for Justin Timberlake however, after hearing Sheeran perform it live, Williams convinced him to keep it for himself. It was produced using classic instruments such as drums and guitar alongside modern electronic sounds creating an irresistible fusion of old and new.
Source: Rolling Stone Magazine
Samuel Moore is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
