Ed Sheeran, the musical phenomenon who has captured hearts around the globe, is renowned for his soulful lyrics and catchy melodies. Bursting onto the scene with his debut album, Sheeran has consistently redefined the boundaries of pop, folk, and R&B. From heartfelt ballads to upbeat anthems, his discography is a treasure trove of emotions that resonate with listeners of all ages.
As we dive into the top 10 most popular Ed Sheeran songs of all time, prepare to relive the magic of his biggest hits. Each track tells a story, weaving tales of love, heartbreak, and the beauty of everyday life. Whether it’s the hauntingly beautiful “Photograph” or the infectious energy of “Shape of You,” Sheeran’s music has a unique way of connecting with fans, often making them feel as if he’s singing directly to them.
Join us on this melodic journey as we explore the enduring appeal of Ed Sheeran’s greatest songs. Discover the tracks that have not only topped the charts but also become anthems for a generation, solidifying his place in the pantheon of modern music legends. Get ready to sing along!
1. “Shape of You” (2017)
Released in January 2017, Ed Sheeran’s “Shape of You” quickly became one of the most popular and recognizable songs of the year. The track’s infectious beat and catchy hook made it nearly impossible for listeners to resist moving to its rhythm. The song tells the story of an impromptu meeting at a bar, where two people are drawn together by mutual attraction and the excitement of the early stages of romance. Its upbeat tempo, mixed with dancehall-inspired rhythms, created a sound that was both fresh and exciting, marking a distinct shift in Sheeran’s musical style. As the lead single from his album Divide, “Shape of You” reached global success, dominating charts across the world and amassing billions of streams. It earned multiple Grammy nominations and won the Grammy Award for Best Pop Solo Performance. With its memorable chorus and irresistible rhythm, it became a party anthem and solidified Sheeran’s place as a pop music icon. The song’s universal appeal lies in its ability to blend catchy pop elements with a sensual, playful narrative, making it a track that listeners can’t help but sing along to. Whether you’re on the dance floor or just enjoying it in the car, “Shape of You” continues to be one of Sheeran’s most iconic songs, reflecting his evolution as an artist and his ability to craft music that resonates with audiences worldwide.
2. “Thinking Out Loud” (2014)
Released in 2014, “Thinking Out Loud” is a romantic ballad that showcases Ed Sheeran’s ability to craft timeless love songs with heartfelt lyrics and soulful delivery. The track explores the enduring nature of love, with Sheeran singing about the deep connection between partners, promising that love will last even as they grow older. The smooth, acoustic guitar-driven arrangement complements Sheeran’s emotive vocals, creating a soothing atmosphere that resonates with listeners of all ages. The lyrics reflect vulnerability and devotion, making it a popular choice for weddings and other romantic occasions. “Thinking Out Loud” became one of Sheeran’s most successful songs, earning multiple awards, including the Grammy Award for Song of the Year. Its emotional depth and universal appeal have made it a staple in Sheeran’s catalog, and it has been widely praised for its poetic expression of love. The song’s success is also evident in the music video, which beautifully captures the essence of a long-lasting, intimate relationship through elegant, romantic visuals. “Thinking Out Loud” not only solidified Sheeran’s place as a master of modern love songs but also helped define his reputation as one of the leading songwriters of his generation. Its lyrical warmth and tender delivery continue to make it a favorite for couples around the world, further cementing Sheeran’s legacy as a songwriter capable of capturing the full spectrum of human emotion through music.
3. “Perfect” (2017)
In 2017, Ed Sheeran delivered “Perfect,” a love song that radiates warmth, sincerity, and genuine affection. The song quickly became a fan favorite, largely due to its lush instrumentation and lyrics that evoke a deep sense of romantic idealism. “Perfect” tells the story of finding that special someone and cherishing every moment spent together. With lyrics like “Well, I found a woman, stronger than anyone I know,” Sheeran captures the essence of true love, portraying a relationship that is built on trust, companionship, and deep emotional connection. The accompanying music video, featuring Sheeran and his partner, adds an extra layer of charm, depicting a beautiful narrative of love and devotion. The song’s timeless feel has made it the go-to anthem for weddings, anniversaries, and other romantic milestones. The soft piano melody and Sheeran’s gentle delivery create a soothing and intimate atmosphere, making it a perfect background for personal moments of reflection and love. “Perfect” also received critical acclaim, with many praising its simplicity and emotional depth. Its universal message of finding and holding onto true love resonates with listeners of all ages and backgrounds. The song’s global success further cemented Sheeran’s place in pop music history, showing that he could craft songs that are both commercially successful and emotionally impactful. With its heartfelt lyrics, beautiful arrangement, and overall sense of warmth, “Perfect” has proven to be one of Ed Sheeran’s most enduring and beloved tracks, continuing to be a staple at romantic celebrations across the globe.
4. “Photograph” (2015)
“Photograph,” released in 2015, is a deeply nostalgic ballad that reflects on the power of memories and the way they shape our lives. The song’s tender lyrics and gentle melody paint a picture of someone looking back at moments captured in photographs, cherishing the memories of a past relationship or experience. Sheeran’s emotive vocals bring a sense of vulnerability and longing to the song, making it easy for listeners to relate to the sentiment of holding onto the past through tangible mementos like photos. The lyrics speak of love, loss, and the passage of time, while emphasizing how photographs serve as a bridge to moments that have passed but are never truly gone. With lines like “We keep this love in a photograph / We made these memories for ourselves,” the song invites listeners to reflect on their own cherished memories and the people and experiences that have shaped them. The soft acoustic guitar arrangement complements the intimate tone of the song, further enhancing its emotional depth. The accompanying music video beautifully captures the essence of the song, showcasing images of people from all walks of life holding onto their memories through photographs. “Photograph” became one of Sheeran’s most beloved tracks, resonating with audiences for its universal message of love, loss, and the lasting impact of the moments that define us. The song’s gentle and introspective nature stands as a testament to Sheeran’s ability to craft songs that evoke deep emotion while remaining simple and relatable. Whether listening to it on a quiet evening or reflecting on personal milestones, “Photograph” continues to be a poignant reminder of the importance of preserving memories.
5. “Castle on the Hill” (2017)
Released in 2017 alongside “Shape of You,” “Castle on the Hill” stands as a powerful anthem of nostalgia and self-discovery. The song takes listeners on a journey back to Sheeran’s hometown of Framlingham, Suffolk, reflecting on his youth, his upbringing, and the formative experiences that shaped him. With its driving rock-inspired instrumentals and reflective lyrics, “Castle on the Hill” captures the essence of growing up and the bittersweet nature of looking back at one’s past. Sheeran sings about the friends, the places, and the moments that defined his early years, all while acknowledging both the highs and lows of his journey. The song’s fast-paced rhythm and emotionally charged lyrics create a sense of urgency, drawing listeners into Sheeran’s personal narrative. Its anthem-like quality makes it a standout track in his discography, and it resonated deeply with audiences who could relate to the experiences of growing up, leaving home, and finding one’s way in the world. “Castle on the Hill” became a celebratory track for many listeners, embodying the joys of youth and the lessons learned along the way. Sheeran’s raw and unfiltered storytelling adds depth to the song, making it feel both personal and universal. The song also serves as a reflection of Sheeran’s journey from small-town beginnings to global stardom, with the “castle on the hill” symbolizing both the literal and metaphorical significance of his roots. As one of the defining tracks of his Divide album, “Castle on the Hill” is an ode to the place, the people, and the experiences that helped shape Sheeran into the artist he is today.
6. “The A Team” (2011)
“The A Team” marked Ed Sheeran’s breakthrough into the music world in 2011, a deeply emotional and raw track that showcases his ability to address difficult, socially relevant issues through his music. The song tells the haunting story of a woman struggling with addiction and homelessness, painting a stark picture of the realities faced by those living in the margins of society. The gentle acoustic guitar that accompanies Sheeran’s soulful, vulnerable vocals creates an intimate atmosphere, drawing listeners in and allowing them to connect deeply with the song’s message. The lyrics are poignant and thoughtful, touching on themes of despair, hope, and the need for compassion. Sheeran’s ability to tell a story with such sensitivity and grace is what made “The A Team” stand out and helped him gain recognition as an artist with a unique perspective. The track’s understated production and stripped-back instrumentation only enhance the power of the lyrics, creating a somber yet beautiful musical backdrop to the heavy subject matter. “The A Team” was not just a song, but a call to awareness about the plight of those suffering from addiction and homelessness, making it one of Sheeran’s most impactful tracks. The song’s success helped Sheeran break into the mainstream, earning him critical acclaim and laying the foundation for his future successes. “The A Team” remains one of Sheeran’s most memorable songs, both for its haunting beauty and its ability to spark meaningful conversations about social issues.
7. “Galway Girl” (2017)
“Galway Girl,” released in 2017, is a lively, upbeat track that combines folk, pop, and a bit of Irish charm. The song transports listeners to the vibrant streets of Galway, Ireland, where Sheeran sings about a romantic encounter with a girl from this lively town. The track’s infectious rhythm and playful lyrics about love and adventure make it an instant favorite for sing-alongs and celebrations. Sheeran’s collaboration with Irish musicians on the track gives it an authentic, energetic feel, infusing the song with a sense of cultural richness that resonates with fans across the globe. The song’s catchy chorus and upbeat tempo reflect the excitement of a spontaneous romance, and Sheeran’s energetic performance adds to the track’s overall charm. “Galway Girl” quickly became one of Sheeran’s most popular songs, thanks to its feel-good vibe and irresistible rhythm. It became a mainstay at parties, gatherings, and celebrations, with its infectious energy bringing people together to sing and dance along. The song’s narrative of love, spontaneity, and fun captures the spirit of youth and adventure, making it an anthem for anyone who’s ever had a whirlwind romance or enjoyed a carefree moment. With its combination of folk melodies and pop sensibilities, “Galway Girl” represents Sheeran’s versatility as an artist, able to seamlessly blend different genres while creating music that resonates with a wide audience. The song’s success further solidified Sheeran’s place as one of the world’s most beloved pop artists, known for crafting songs that are both relatable and timeless.
8. “I Don’t Care” (with Justin Bieber) (2019)
In 2019, Ed Sheeran teamed up with Justin Bieber for “I Don’t Care,” a catchy pop anthem about feeling awkward and out of place in social situations. The song explores the experience of trying to enjoy oneself in a crowded party or social event, but feeling disconnected from the vibe. With its upbeat tempo and infectious chorus, the track quickly became a summer hit, climbing the charts worldwide. The chemistry between Sheeran and Bieber is palpable, with the two artists playing off each other’s strengths to create a track that is both fun and relatable. The song’s lighthearted lyrics and infectious energy resonated with listeners who have ever experienced the anxiety of being in a social setting where they don’t quite fit in. “I Don’t Care” became a go-to anthem for those seeking a fun escape from the stress of social expectations, offering a refreshing take on the idea of just letting go and enjoying the moment. The upbeat vibe, catchy chorus, and danceable rhythm made it an instant favorite for parties, with its infectious energy lighting up dance floors everywhere. The song also reflects Sheeran’s ability to adapt to new sounds and styles, experimenting with a more mainstream pop production while still keeping his distinctive vocal style intact. “I Don’t Care” demonstrated Sheeran’s versatility as an artist, showcasing his knack for creating music that connects with listeners on a personal level, no matter the genre.
9. “Bad Habits” (2021)
“Bad Habits,” released in 2021, marks a bold shift in Ed Sheeran’s musical direction, blending pop and electronic influences to create a vibrant, danceable track with a darker edge. The song explores themes of temptation and the consequences of indulgence, all wrapped up in an infectious groove that makes it impossible to resist moving to the beat. Sheeran’s vocals glide effortlessly over the pulsating production, capturing the internal struggle between indulging in bad habits and the self-awareness that comes with understanding the consequences of those actions. The song’s catchy hook and upbeat tempo create a fun, almost hedonistic atmosphere, but its lyrics reveal a deeper message about the dangers of excess and the need for self-reflection. The accompanying music video features colorful visuals and slick choreography, highlighting Sheeran’s ability to blend fun with meaningful messages. “Bad Habits” represents a departure from Sheeran’s previous work, showcasing his willingness to experiment with new sounds and push the boundaries of his artistry. The track quickly became a commercial success, topping charts and earning praise for its infectious energy and fresh sound. “Bad Habits” demonstrated Sheeran’s continued evolution as an artist, embracing new musical influences while still delivering personal and relatable lyrics that resonate with a wide audience. The song’s upbeat vibe and catchy production made it a perfect anthem for the summer, while its underlying message about self-awareness and personal growth gave it a deeper emotional weight.
10. “Sing” (2014)
“Sing,” released in 2014, marked a major shift in Ed Sheeran’s musical style, introducing a more experimental, upbeat sound with influences of pop and R&B. The track was co-produced by Pharrell Williams, who brought his signature funk and groove to the production, creating a vibrant, danceable anthem that encouraged listeners to let loose and have fun. The song’s catchy chorus and playful lyrics are all about enjoying the moment and embracing the carefree, spontaneous side of life. Sheeran’s energetic performance and the song’s infectious rhythm make it a staple at parties and events, where its upbeat vibe never fails to get people moving. The production is bouncy and full of life, with funky guitar riffs and a driving beat that complement Sheeran’s vocal delivery. “Sing” quickly became a crowd favorite, and its high energy made it a hit in clubs and on the radio. The song’s playful nature and fun-loving spirit marked a departure from Sheeran’s earlier, more introspective work, showcasing his ability to experiment with different genres while still retaining his signature charm and storytelling ability. The collaboration with Pharrell gave the track a unique, funky edge that set it apart from other pop songs at the time. “Sing” was a bold step forward for Sheeran, proving that he was more than just a ballad maker, and showing his versatility as an artist who could excel in a variety of musical styles. The track’s infectious beat and jubilant energy continue to make it a fan favorite, and its popularity remains strong, cementing its place as one of Sheeran’s most successful and enduring hits.
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.
