Ed Sheeran is a renowned English singer-songwriter, musician, and record producer. Born on February 17, 1991, in Halifax, West Yorkshire, England, Sheeran gained international fame with his heartfelt songwriting, distinctive voice, and versatile musical style, which blends pop, folk, and acoustic elements.
Sheeran began his music career at a young age, performing in local venues and releasing independent EPs. His breakthrough came in 2011 with the release of his debut studio album, “+” (Plus), which included hit singles like “The A Team” and “Lego House.” The album’s success established Sheeran as a major force in the music industry.
In 2014, Sheeran released his second album, “x” (Multiply), which featured chart-topping hits such as “Sing,” “Don’t,” and “Thinking Out Loud.” The album earned him multiple awards and solidified his status as a global superstar.
Sheeran’s third album, “÷” (Divide), released in 2017, included massively successful singles like “Shape of You,” “Castle on the Hill,” and “Perfect.” The album’s commercial success further cemented Sheeran’s reputation as one of the most influential and best-selling artists of his generation.
In addition to his solo work, Sheeran has collaborated with numerous artists across various genres, contributing to hits like “I Don’t Care” with Justin Bieber and “River” with Eminem. Known for his prolific songwriting, Sheeran has also written songs for other prominent artists.
Sheeran’s music often explores themes of love, heartbreak, and personal experiences, resonating with a wide audience. His live performances, often featuring just him and his guitar, are known for their intimacy and emotional depth. With multiple Grammy Awards and countless other accolades, Ed Sheeran continues to be a prominent and beloved figure in the music industry.
1. Perfect
“Perfect” is a romantic ballad by Ed Sheeran, released in 2017 as part of his third studio album, “÷” (Divide). The song is characterized by its gentle melody, heartfelt lyrics, and Sheeran’s emotive vocals.
Lyrically, “Perfect” is a love song that details the deep affection and admiration Sheeran feels for his partner. The song narrates a romantic relationship, highlighting moments of love and intimacy. With lyrics like “Darling, you look perfect tonight,” Sheeran paints a vivid picture of a magical and cherished moment shared between two lovers.
“Perfect” received widespread acclaim from critics and fans alike for its sincere lyrics and beautiful composition. The song became a massive commercial success, topping charts in multiple countries and becoming one of Sheeran’s most iconic songs. It has been widely used in weddings and romantic occasions, solidifying its status as a modern love anthem.
The music video for “Perfect,” featuring Sheeran and actress Zoey Deutch, further enhanced the song’s popularity. It depicts a romantic winter love story set in the snowy Alps, complementing the song’s warm and tender lyrics.
Overall, “Perfect” is celebrated for its timeless and universal appeal, capturing the essence of true love and making it one of Ed Sheeran’s standout tracks.
2. Photograph
“Photograph” is a song by Ed Sheeran, released in 2015 as the fifth single from his second studio album, *x* (pronounced “multiply”). Written by Sheeran and Johnny McDaid, the song is a heartfelt acoustic ballad that reflects on memories, love, and the passage of time. “Photograph” features Sheeran’s emotive vocals and gentle guitar strumming, accompanied by a delicate arrangement that builds throughout the track.
The lyrics tell a poignant story about preserving moments and emotions through photographs, capturing the essence of cherished memories and the longing for loved ones. “Photograph” received critical acclaim for its sincerity and emotional depth, resonating with audiences worldwide. The song’s success was further bolstered by its touching music video, which features home video footage from Sheeran’s childhood, adding a personal and intimate dimension to the song’s theme.
3. Galway Girl
“Galway Girl” is a song by Ed Sheeran, released in 2017 as part of his third studio album, *÷* (pronounced “divide”). Written by Sheeran, Amy Wadge, and producers Benny Blanco and Fred Gibson, the song is a lively blend of pop and Irish folk music. “Galway Girl” features upbeat fiddle and traditional Irish instrumentation, creating a catchy and danceable tune.
The lyrics tell the story of a romantic encounter with a spirited girl from Galway, Ireland, capturing the charm and vibrancy of the Irish culture. Sheeran’s narrative lyrics and the infectious melody make “Galway Girl” a standout track on the album. The song was a commercial success, topping charts in several countries and becoming a fan favorite for its joyful energy and storytelling. The accompanying music video, filmed in Galway, further enhances the song’s celebration of Irish culture and scenery.
4. I Don’t Care (with Justin Bieber)
“I Don’t Care” is an upbeat pop song by Ed Sheeran and Justin Bieber, released in 2019 as a single from Sheeran’s collaborative project “No.6 Collaborations Project.” The song is characterized by its catchy melody, tropical-inspired production, and the seamless blend of Sheeran and Bieber’s vocals.
Lyrically, “I Don’t Care” explores themes of love and comfort in the context of social anxiety. Both artists sing about feeling out of place at a party but finding solace in the presence of their loved ones. The chorus highlights the sentiment of disregarding the awkwardness of social situations when they are with someone special, as reflected in the lines “Cause I don’t care when I’m with my baby, yeah / All the bad things disappear.”
“I Don’t Care” received positive reviews from critics, who praised its infectious hooks and the chemistry between Sheeran and Bieber. The song became a commercial success, topping charts in multiple countries and earning certifications for its sales and streaming numbers.
The accompanying music video for “I Don’t Care” features Sheeran and Bieber in a series of humorous and surreal scenarios, using green screen effects to place them in various whimsical and fantastical settings. This playful visual element added to the song’s appeal and further engaged fans.
Overall, “I Don’t Care” is celebrated for its feel-good vibe and relatable lyrics, making it a standout collaboration between two of pop music’s biggest stars.
5. Bad Habits
“Bad Habits” is a song by Ed Sheeran, released in 2021 as the lead single from his fifth studio album, *= (Equals)*. Co-written by Sheeran, Fred Gibson (Fred Again), and Johnny McDaid, the song marks a departure from Sheeran’s typical acoustic style, embracing a more dance-pop and synth-pop sound.
“Bad Habits” features energetic beats, a pulsating bassline, and a catchy melody, showcasing Sheeran’s versatility as an artist. The lyrics explore themes of temptation, self-destructive behavior, and the consequences of bad habits, with Sheeran reflecting on nights of indulgence and their aftermath.
The song received positive reviews for its fresh sound and infectious energy, quickly becoming a commercial success. It topped charts worldwide and solidified Sheeran’s ability to evolve and experiment with different musical styles. The accompanying music video, directed by Dave Meyers, features Sheeran as a vampire navigating a wild night out, adding a visual narrative to the song’s theme of reckless behavior.
6. Castle on the Hill
“Castle on the Hill” is a nostalgic and anthemic song by Ed Sheeran, released in 2017 as one of the lead singles from his third studio album, “÷” (Divide). The song is characterized by its driving beat, soaring chorus, and reflective lyrics.
Lyrically, “Castle on the Hill” is a tribute to Sheeran’s hometown of Framlingham in Suffolk, England. The song reminisces about his childhood and teenage years, capturing the essence of growing up and the experiences that shaped him. The “castle on the hill” refers to Framlingham Castle, a significant landmark in Sheeran’s hometown. Throughout the song, Sheeran recounts memories with friends, youthful adventures, and the sense of longing for simpler times.
The chorus powerfully conveys these sentiments with lines like, “I’m on my way, driving at ninety down those country lanes, singing to ‘Tiny Dancer.'”
“Castle on the Hill” received widespread acclaim from critics for its heartfelt lyrics and anthemic sound. It became a commercial success, reaching the top ten in multiple countries and earning numerous certifications. The song’s evocative storytelling and relatable themes of nostalgia and homecoming resonated with a broad audience.
The music video for “Castle on the Hill” features scenes shot in Framlingham and showcases young actors portraying Sheeran and his friends during their formative years. The visuals complement the song’s themes of nostalgia and returning home, adding an emotional layer to the song’s narrative.
Overall, “Castle on the Hill” is celebrated for its vivid storytelling and emotional resonance, making it one of Ed Sheeran’s standout tracks from the “÷” (Divide) album.
7. Happier
“Happier” is a song by Ed Sheeran, released in 2017 as part of his third studio album, *÷* (pronounced “divide”). Written by Sheeran, Ryan Tedder, and Benny Blanco, the song is a poignant ballad that delves into the emotions of seeing a former lover move on and find happiness with someone else.
“Happier” features Sheeran’s heartfelt vocals over a simple yet emotive acoustic arrangement, with subtle use of guitar and piano that underscores the song’s reflective mood. The lyrics express a mix of sadness and acceptance, as Sheeran acknowledges that his ex is happier without him, even though it still hurts to see.
The song was well-received by fans and critics for its emotional depth and relatable theme. It highlights Sheeran’s songwriting prowess and ability to convey complex feelings through his music. The accompanying music video, featuring puppet versions of Sheeran and his ex, adds a whimsical yet touching visual element to the song’s narrative.
8. The A Team
“The A Team” is a poignant and introspective song by Ed Sheeran, released in 2011 as the lead single from his debut studio album, “+”. The song is characterized by its gentle acoustic guitar, melodic arrangement, and Sheeran’s emotive vocals.
Lyrically, “The A Team” tells the story of a young woman struggling with addiction and homelessness. Sheeran paints a vivid and heartbreaking picture of her life, touching on themes of despair, vulnerability, and the harsh realities faced by those living on the fringes of society. The song’s title, “The A Team,” is a euphemism for Class A drugs, highlighting the seriousness of the subject matter.
The chorus, with lines like “It’s too cold outside for angels to fly,” conveys the sense of hopelessness and the tragic circumstances of the protagonist’s life.
“The A Team” received widespread critical acclaim for its powerful lyrics, compassionate storytelling, and Sheeran’s heartfelt delivery. The song became a commercial success, charting in multiple countries and earning several awards and nominations, including a Grammy nomination for Song of the Year.
The music video for “The A Team” further emphasizes the song’s narrative, depicting the life of the young woman as she navigates her struggles with addiction and homelessness. The video adds a visual depth to the song’s message, making it even more impactful.
Overall, “The A Team” is celebrated for its poignant and realistic portrayal of a difficult subject, showcasing Ed Sheeran’s songwriting prowess and his ability to tackle serious issues with sensitivity and empathy. The song remains one of Sheeran’s most acclaimed and beloved tracks.
9. Shape of You
“Shape of You” is a hugely successful pop song by Ed Sheeran, released in 2017 as one of the lead singles from his third studio album, “÷” (Divide). The song is characterized by its catchy melody, infectious rhythm, and tropical house-inspired production.
Lyrically, “Shape of You” is about a romantic encounter and the physical attraction between two people. The song details the excitement of meeting someone new at a bar and the subsequent romantic and physical connection that develops. The chorus, with its memorable line “I’m in love with the shape of you,” emphasizes the theme of physical attraction and the joy found in the early stages of a relationship.
“Shape of You” received widespread critical acclaim for its danceable beat and catchy hooks, quickly becoming a global hit. It topped the charts in numerous countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia, and became one of the best-selling digital singles of all time. The song’s universal appeal and widespread airplay contributed to its massive commercial success.
The music video for “Shape of You” features Ed Sheeran training as a boxer and forming a relationship with a fellow boxer, played by model and dancer Jennie Pegouskie. The video culminates in a humorous twist, further enhancing the song’s popularity with its engaging and entertaining narrative.
“Shape of You” has earned numerous awards and accolades, including a Grammy Award for Best Pop Solo Performance. Its infectious beat, relatable lyrics, and Sheeran’s charismatic performance have made it a standout track in his discography and a favorite among fans worldwide.
10. Thinking Out Loud
“Thinking Out Loud” is a romantic ballad by Ed Sheeran, released in 2014 as a single from his second studio album, “x” (Multiply). The song is characterized by its soulful melody, heartfelt lyrics, and Sheeran’s smooth vocals.
Lyrically, “Thinking Out Loud” is a love song that celebrates enduring romance and the deep bond between two people. Sheeran sings about growing old with his partner and how their love will continue to thrive over time. The lyrics, including lines like “Darling, I will be loving you ’til we’re 70” and “Take me into your loving arms,” capture the timeless and unwavering nature of true love.
The song received widespread acclaim from critics and fans alike for its beautiful composition and Sheeran’s emotive delivery. “Thinking Out Loud” became a massive commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries and earning numerous awards and accolades. It was particularly notable for its popularity at weddings and romantic events, solidifying its status as a modern love anthem.
The music video for “Thinking Out Loud” features Sheeran performing an elegant and intimate ballroom dance with professional dancer Brittany Cherry. The video complements the song’s romantic themes and showcases Sheeran’s dedication to creating a memorable and heartfelt visual experience.
“Thinking Out Loud” won the Grammy Award for Song of the Year and Best Pop Solo Performance in 2016, further cementing its place as one of Ed Sheeran’s most iconic and beloved songs. Its timeless message of enduring love and commitment continues to resonate with listeners around the world.