Few artists in the modern music scene capture the hearts and minds of listeners quite like Ed Sheeran. With his soulful voice, heartfelt lyrics, and signature acoustic sound, Sheeran has become a global sensation, dominating charts and serenading fans with melodies that range from intimate ballads to infectious pop anthems. Whether you’re belting out the words to a romantic hit or swaying to a catchy tune at a concert, there’s no denying the British singer-songwriter’s influence on the music industry.
In this article, we’ll take you through the top 10 most popular Ed Sheeran songs of all time — the tracks that have defined his career and solidified his place as one of the most beloved artists of a generation. From chart-topping singles to timeless love songs, these are the tunes that have left an indelible mark on the music world and continue to resonate with fans all over the globe. Whether you’re a longtime Sheeran enthusiast or just discovering his magic, this list is sure to remind you why his music is so universally adored. So, grab your headphones and get ready to dive into the best of Ed Sheeran’s musical genius!
1. Shape of You (2017)
Released in January 2017, “Shape of You” quickly took the music world by storm, cementing Ed Sheeran’s place as a powerhouse in global pop music. This track became one of the year’s defining anthems, blending an infectious beat inspired by dancehall and tropical house with Sheeran’s smooth, melodic vocals. Originally, Sheeran had written “Shape of You” with Rihanna in mind, aiming for something playful yet edgy. But as he developed the song, he felt it fit his own voice perfectly, ultimately deciding to keep it for himself.
The song’s lyrics weave a story of attraction, romance, and the thrill of a spontaneous night out, capturing the essence of fleeting, irresistible chemistry between two people. The catchy pre-chorus and memorable hook draw listeners into a rhythmic world that’s upbeat and sensual, tapping into both the excitement of romance and the universality of physical attraction. “Shape of You” topped the Billboard Hot 100 for a record-breaking 12 weeks and went on to become one of the best-selling digital singles of all time. Beyond its chart success, the song earned accolades for its catchy hook and genre-blending sound, which has made it a staple in pop culture. Its commercial success is matched by its longevity, with the track consistently remaining popular on streaming platforms and playlists worldwide. “Shape of You” epitomizes Sheeran’s ability to create music that resonates with a vast audience, blending pop and dance influences while keeping a personal touch that fans can relate to, making it an unforgettable hit that will be celebrated for years to come.
2. Thinking Out Loud (2014)
“Thinking Out Loud,” released in 2014 on Ed Sheeran’s second studio album, x (“Multiply”), is often regarded as his ultimate love ballad, beloved by millions for its heartfelt lyrics and timeless message of devotion. This song showcases Sheeran’s softer side, offering a tender perspective on love that grows deeper and more meaningful over time. With lines like “Take me into your loving arms” and “Maybe we found love right where we are,” Sheeran creates a song that celebrates both the familiarity and magic of a lasting relationship.
The gentle, soulful guitar melody perfectly complements Sheeran’s warm, emotive vocal delivery, making “Thinking Out Loud” an instant favorite for weddings and romantic celebrations around the world. It became a chart-topping hit, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100, and went on to win the Grammy Award for Song of the Year in 2016, solidifying Sheeran’s reputation as a masterful songwriter. The music video, which features Sheeran himself performing a beautifully choreographed ballroom dance routine, added an extra layer of charm and elegance, resonating deeply with fans. The sincerity and simplicity of the song connect with listeners of all ages, creating a piece that feels both deeply personal and universally relatable. To this day, “Thinking Out Loud” remains a go-to song for expressing love and commitment, and its timeless quality ensures that it will continue to touch hearts for generations to come.
3. Perfect (2017)
Released in 2017, “Perfect” is often seen as Ed Sheeran’s most romantic song, a heartfelt tribute to his then-girlfriend, now wife, Cherry Seaborn. The track, a standout from his ÷ (“Divide”) album, paints a vivid picture of young love and devotion, celebrating the quiet moments and deep emotions that make a relationship truly special. Sheeran’s use of sweeping strings and elegant guitar work gives the song a classic feel, reminiscent of traditional love ballads, while still maintaining his signature warmth and authenticity.
The lyrics of “Perfect” capture the beauty of falling in love, portraying scenes that feel almost cinematic, from dancing barefoot on the grass to gazing at a loved one under the stars. The song quickly topped charts worldwide, including the Billboard Hot 100, and has since become a staple at weddings and other intimate gatherings. Its impact only grew when Sheeran later released a duet version with Beyoncé, further elevating the track’s appeal and cementing its place in the pantheon of modern romantic songs. “Perfect” resonates with listeners as a celebration of love that is enduring, tender, and real—a song that captures the magic of finding that special someone. Whether performed solo or as a duet, “Perfect” remains an anthem for those who have experienced the joy of deep, meaningful connection, making it a classic that will continue to touch hearts for years to come.
4. Castle on the Hill (2017)
“Castle on the Hill,” released in 2017 alongside “Shape of You,” offers a nostalgic glimpse into Ed Sheeran’s past, taking listeners on an emotional journey through his childhood in Framlingham, Suffolk. This song serves as a tribute to Sheeran’s hometown, his close friends, and the memories that shaped him, capturing the sense of both joy and longing that comes with looking back on one’s roots. With a driving rhythm and soaring chorus, “Castle on the Hill” feels almost cinematic, transporting listeners to the scenic countryside and echoing the excitement of youth.
The lyrics are a heartfelt ode to simpler times, recalling moments like learning to drive on country roads and the innocence of young love. Each line feels personal, yet universal, resonating with anyone who has a place they’ll always call home. Although “Castle on the Hill” didn’t reach the same level of commercial success as “Shape of You,” it quickly became a fan favorite, receiving widespread acclaim for its authenticity and emotional depth. Sheeran’s ability to infuse his personal experiences into his music allows listeners to feel as though they’re reliving these memories alongside him. In “Castle on the Hill,” Sheeran reminds us of the value of our roots and the memories that continue to shape who we are, creating a song that feels both timeless and deeply personal.
5. Photograph (2015)
Released in 2015 as part of his x (“Multiply”) album, “Photograph” is a deeply poignant ballad that explores the power of memories and the beauty of preserving love through photographs. Sheeran’s soft, emotive vocals paired with a gentle guitar arrangement create a tear-jerking anthem that resonates with listeners who have experienced love, loss, or nostalgia. The lyrics, which speak to the lasting impact of treasured moments, are personal and heartfelt, making “Photograph” one of Sheeran’s most beloved tracks.
The song’s message is both simple and profound: love and memories can be preserved, offering solace even when the people we care about are far away. “Photograph” has a timeless quality, touching on universal themes of longing and remembrance, and has been a source of comfort for fans around the world. The music video, featuring real footage from Sheeran’s childhood, adds an additional layer of sentimentality, allowing fans a glimpse into his own family memories. This personal touch resonates with listeners, who find their own memories reflected in the song’s lyrics. “Photograph” reached the top 10 in multiple countries and continues to be a fan favorite, often cited as one of Sheeran’s most touching and relatable songs. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to capture the bittersweet nature of love and memory, creating a song that listeners return to in moments of reflection.
6. The A Team (2011)
Released as Ed Sheeran’s breakthrough single in 2011, “The A Team” introduced the world to his unique storytelling ability and marked the beginning of his meteoric rise to fame. The song tackles heavy themes of addiction and homelessness with sensitivity and grace, presenting a hauntingly beautiful narrative that stands out from typical pop songs. Written after Sheeran performed at a homeless shelter, “The A Team” sheds light on the struggles faced by those on society’s fringes, capturing both the despair and humanity in these experiences.
Set to a gentle acoustic melody, the song’s lyrics are raw and poignant, painting a vivid picture of a woman trapped in a cycle of addiction. Sheeran’s soft, almost delicate vocal delivery adds to the song’s emotional depth, inviting listeners to reflect on the often-overlooked lives of others. “The A Team” earned Sheeran his first Grammy nomination and charted highly in both the UK and the US, establishing him as a new voice in music. The song’s success proved that pop music could tackle difficult social issues without sacrificing commercial appeal. Today, “The A Team” is celebrated for its empathy and storytelling, serving as a reminder of Sheeran’s roots as an artist unafraid to address real-world issues.
7. Galway Girl (2017)
“Galway Girl,” from Sheeran’s 2017 ÷ (“Divide”) album, combines Irish folk and pop for a lively, memorable tune inspired by a real-life encounter with a woman in Galway, Ireland. The song’s energetic tempo and playful lyrics make it an irresistible sing-along, celebrating Irish culture with authenticity and fun. The use of traditional Irish fiddles adds to its charm, creating a spirited, catchy anthem that’s both romantic and nostalgic.
The song became an instant hit, especially in Ireland, where it topped the charts, resonating with both local and international audiences. Sheeran’s storytelling shines through as he recounts a night of laughter, music, and dance, evoking the magic of a memorable encounter. “Galway Girl” became a fan favorite for its infectious energy and relatable theme, adding diversity to Sheeran’s catalog. Its success highlights Sheeran’s versatility as an artist capable of blending genres and creating music that celebrates cultural connections.
8. I See Fire (2013)
Composed for The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug soundtrack in 2013, “I See Fire” showcases Ed Sheeran’s ability to create cinematic music. Inspired by J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth, the song blends haunting vocals with a mesmerizing acoustic arrangement that captures the tension and bravery of the film’s epic narrative. The track marked Sheeran’s first foray into film music, introducing his sound to fantasy fans worldwide.
“I See Fire” was praised for its emotional depth, with Sheeran’s evocative performance adding a sense of urgency and heroism to the story. The song reached the top 10 in several countries, celebrated for its ability to convey the film’s intensity while standing alone as a powerful ballad. “I See Fire” remains a fan favorite, reflecting Sheeran’s skill at creating music that resonates on both personal and epic levels.
9. Happier (2017)
“Happier,” from Ed Sheeran’s ÷ (“Divide”) album, delves into the raw emotions that come with seeing an ex move on with someone else. Released in 2017, the song resonates as a tender, bittersweet ballad, capturing the heartache of watching someone you once loved find happiness with another person. The lyrics convey Sheeran’s ability to balance longing with acceptance, admitting that while seeing his former love with someone new is painful, he genuinely wishes her well.
With gentle guitar melodies and Sheeran’s soulful vocal delivery, “Happier” stands out as an exploration of complex emotions like regret, nostalgia, and self-reflection. The refrain, “I knew one day you’d fall for someone new, but if he breaks your heart like lovers do, just know that I’ll be waiting here for you,” reveals both vulnerability and a lingering hope, making it relatable to anyone who has experienced a tough breakup. While it didn’t dominate the charts like some of his other singles, “Happier” struck a chord with listeners, who found comfort in its honest portrayal of loss and moving on. The music video, featuring puppet versions of Sheeran and his former partner, added a visual layer to the story, using symbolism to depict the pain and eventual acceptance of lost love. This track has since become one of Sheeran’s most emotionally resonant songs, providing solace for fans who, like him, have found themselves grappling with the mixed feelings of watching someone they cared for find happiness elsewhere.
10. Sing (2014)
“Sing,” released in 2014 as the lead single from Ed Sheeran’s x (“Multiply”) album, marked a bold shift in Sheeran’s sound, showcasing his willingness to experiment beyond his signature acoustic style. Produced by Pharrell Williams, this track blends Sheeran’s smooth vocals with an infectious groove, falsetto hooks, and funky beats. The result is an upbeat, danceable track that celebrates a night of revelry and flirtation, highlighting a side of Sheeran that’s less introspective and more carefree.
Lyrically, “Sing” departs from Sheeran’s usual themes of love and introspection, instead capturing the excitement of a lively night out. The track’s catchy chorus and rhythmic bounce invite listeners to join in, making it an instant summer anthem. “Sing” quickly rose to the top of the UK charts, giving Sheeran his first number-one single in his home country and showcasing his versatility as an artist. Its success also signaled Sheeran’s ability to compete in a wide range of genres, blending pop, funk, and R&B influences while still keeping a unique edge. The song’s success paved the way for more genre-bending hits in Sheeran’s future, proving that he could master more than just ballads and acoustic tunes. The music video, featuring a puppet version of Sheeran on a wild adventure through city nightlife, adds a humorous and memorable twist, capturing the song’s playful energy. With “Sing,” Sheeran solidified his place in mainstream pop, proving he could evolve his sound while staying true to his artistic identity.
Edward Tomlin 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.
