Ed Sheeran is no stranger to creating chart-topping hits that resonate with millions around the world. From his humble beginnings as a singer-songwriter performing in small venues to becoming one of the biggest music icons of the 21st century, Ed Sheeran’s musical journey is nothing short of extraordinary. His soulful voice, signature guitar melodies, and poetic lyrics have captured hearts, making him a global sensation.
In this article, we’ll take you on a musical trip down memory lane as we count down the top 10 most popular Ed Sheeran songs of all time. Whether it’s the heart-wrenching ballads that make us cry, the upbeat tunes that get us on our feet, or the romantic anthems that have soundtracked countless weddings, Sheeran’s catalog is filled with unforgettable tracks. With hits spanning multiple genres—from pop to folk to R&B—Ed Sheeran has solidified his place as one of the most versatile and talented artists of his generation. So, grab your headphones, crank up the volume, and get ready to dive into the songs that have defined Ed Sheeran’s career and touched the hearts of fans across the globe!
1. Shape of You (2017)
Released as part of Ed Sheeran’s third album ÷ (Divide), “Shape of You” took the world by storm in January 2017. With its infectious beat, tropical house influences, and catchy lyrics, the song quickly became a global anthem. Originally intended for another artist, Sheeran decided to keep it for himself—and thank goodness he did. The song spent a record-breaking 16 weeks at the top of the Billboard Hot 100 in the U.S. and became one of the best-selling digital singles of all time. Its rhythmic hook and playful lyrics about love and attraction made it an instant hit, resonating with fans across the globe and dominating radio stations worldwide.
2. Thinking Out Loud (2014)
“Thinking Out Loud” became the modern-day love ballad that swept across wedding playlists and romantic celebrations everywhere. Released in June 2014 on Sheeran’s second studio album x (Multiply), the song is a soulful declaration of eternal love. With its smooth guitar melody and heartfelt lyrics, Sheeran showcases the timelessness of a relationship that grows stronger with age. The song earned Sheeran two Grammy Awards, including Song of the Year in 2016, and solidified his reputation as a master of emotional storytelling. The accompanying music video, featuring Sheeran’s ballroom dancing skills, only added to the song’s enduring charm.
3. Perfect (2017)
“Perfect,” released in March 2017, is another romantic ballad from Sheeran’s ÷ (Divide) album, but it takes things a step further. Inspired by his relationship with his now-wife Cherry Seaborn, the song is an ode to the kind of love that feels, well, perfect. With a sweeping orchestral backdrop and vulnerable lyrics, Sheeran crafted a timeless love song that immediately resonated with listeners. It became a staple at weddings and proposals, and even topped the charts in multiple countries. The song’s gentle melody and heartfelt sentiment make it one of Sheeran’s most beloved tracks.
4. Castle on the Hill (2017)
Released on the same day as “Shape of You” in January 2017, “Castle on the Hill” is a nostalgic anthem that reflects on Sheeran’s childhood in Framlingham, Suffolk. With powerful guitar riffs and soaring choruses, the song evokes a sense of homecoming and the bittersweet passage of time. It captures the universal feeling of longing for the innocence of youth while recognizing how far one has come. This autobiographical track quickly became a fan favorite, adding a rock edge to Sheeran’s diverse musical catalog.
5. Photograph (2015)
“Photograph” was released in May 2015 as the fifth single from Sheeran’s album x (Multiply). This tender ballad is an ode to the power of memories and love preserved through photographs. With its simple acoustic arrangement and poignant lyrics, Sheeran tugs at the heartstrings as he reflects on a long-distance relationship. The song’s emotional depth and universal theme of holding onto cherished moments resonated deeply with listeners, making it another standout hit in Sheeran’s career.
6. The A Team (2011)
“The A Team” is the song that introduced the world to Ed Sheeran in June 2011. As the lead single from his debut album + (Plus), this hauntingly beautiful track tells the story of a woman battling addiction. Its acoustic melody, combined with Sheeran’s poignant lyrics, painted a raw and emotional portrait of struggle. The song was a critical and commercial success, earning Sheeran his first Grammy nomination and marking a powerful debut for the singer-songwriter. Its understated production highlights Sheeran’s storytelling ability, setting the stage for his future successes.
7. Galway Girl (2017)
Released in March 2017 as part of ÷ (Divide), “Galway Girl” is an upbeat, folk-pop fusion that tells the story of a chance romantic encounter in an Irish bar. Infused with traditional Irish instrumentation and a catchy chorus, the song immediately stood out for its lively energy. Despite its departure from Sheeran’s usual acoustic ballads, “Galway Girl” became a commercial smash, especially in Ireland, where it topped the charts. The song’s infectious rhythm and playful narrative make it one of Sheeran’s most fun and danceable hits.
8. I Don’t Care (with Justin Bieber) (2019)
In May 2019, Ed Sheeran teamed up with pop superstar Justin Bieber to release “I Don’t Care,” an irresistibly catchy track about feeling out of place but finding comfort in the presence of a loved one. The song’s breezy, tropical production and playful lyrics made it a summer anthem, quickly climbing the charts worldwide. The collaboration between two of the biggest names in pop music was a dream come true for fans, and the song’s infectious chorus made it a staple on radio stations. Its feel-good vibe and relatable message of love and companionship helped it become one of the most-streamed songs of 2019.
9. Happier (2018)
“Happier,” released in April 2018 from the ÷ (Divide) album, is a reflective ballad about seeing an ex with someone new and realizing they are indeed happier without you. The song’s melancholic tone and heartfelt delivery make it a deeply emotional track that resonated with listeners who have experienced the pain of heartbreak. Sheeran’s vocal performance, combined with the song’s simple acoustic arrangement, creates a poignant atmosphere of bittersweet acceptance. “Happier” showcases Sheeran’s ability to convey raw emotion through his music, making it a standout moment on the album.
10. Bad Habits (2021)
“Bad Habits,” released in June 2021, marked a bold shift in Ed Sheeran’s musical style. Departing from his acoustic roots, this track features a pulsating dance-pop beat and explores the theme of self-destructive behavior. The song’s infectious energy and catchy chorus made it an instant hit, dominating charts worldwide. With its upbeat tempo and darker lyrical content, “Bad Habits” proved that Sheeran could successfully reinvent his sound while maintaining his signature storytelling. The song became one of the biggest hits of 2021, showcasing Sheeran’s continued evolution as an artist.