Ed Sheeran, the musical mastermind whose heartfelt lyrics and catchy melodies have captivated millions, has solidified his place as one of the most beloved artists of our time. With a unique blend of pop, folk, and R&B, Sheeran has crafted a sound that resonates deeply with listeners around the globe. From intimate ballads to infectious anthems, his discography is a testament to his extraordinary talent and versatility.
In this article, we dive into the top 10 most popular Ed Sheeran songs of all time, exploring the tracks that have defined his career and left an indelible mark on the music industry. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to his music, you’ll discover the stories behind the hits that have become soundtracks to our lives. From the emotional depth of “Photograph” to the upbeat vibes of “Shape of You,” each song showcases Sheeran’s remarkable ability to connect with audiences through relatable themes of love, heartbreak, and joy. Join us as we celebrate the songs that have not only topped charts but also touched hearts, proving that Ed Sheeran is truly a modern-day musical legend.
1. Shape of You (2017)
“Shape of You” is a global hit that redefined the landscape of pop music, earning Ed Sheeran a place among the genre’s biggest stars. With its infectious beat, dancehall-inspired rhythm, and memorable hook, the track effortlessly blends catchy melodies with contemporary beats. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a fleeting yet intense connection between two people meeting at a bar. Sheeran’s playful and flirtatious lines—“I’m in love with the shape of you”—are both lighthearted and captivating, offering a fresh perspective on the familiar theme of romantic attraction. The irresistible rhythm draws listeners to the dance floor, making it a club anthem and one of Sheeran’s signature songs. But “Shape of You” isn’t just about physical attraction; it also explores the thrill of spontaneous romance and the excitement that comes with meeting someone new. The way Sheeran mixes the lyrical simplicity with the track’s intricate beats shows his skill as both a lyricist and a producer. The song also boasts a memorable melody that sticks with you long after the last beat fades, a testament to Sheeran’s knack for creating music that resonates beyond its initial release. Since its 2017 debut, “Shape of You” has become an international phenomenon, topping charts worldwide and breaking streaming records. Its commercial success, coupled with its ability to bridge genres, has solidified it as one of the defining songs of the decade. Through “Shape of You,” Ed Sheeran proves that he’s not just a songwriter, but a master of crafting tunes that connect deeply with listeners while also making them want to dance.
2. Thinking Out Loud (2014)
“Thinking Out Loud” is an emotionally charged ballad that has become a wedding classic, capturing the essence of everlasting love. Released in 2014 as part of x (Multiply), the track stands as a testament to Ed Sheeran’s ability to blend soulful vocals with timeless lyrical sentiment. The song opens with a gentle guitar melody, setting the stage for Sheeran’s heartfelt lyrics, which speak to the enduring nature of love and the passage of time. Lines like “When my hair’s all but gone and my memory fades” resonate deeply with listeners, offering a touching vision of love that transcends physical beauty or fleeting moments. Sheeran’s smooth vocals elevate the lyrics, imbuing the song with a sense of warmth and sincerity. The stripped-back arrangement allows the message of devotion to shine through, and the song’s soaring bridge—“And darling, I will be loving you ‘til we’re 70”—has become one of the most iconic declarations of love in contemporary music. As much as “Thinking Out Loud” is about the enduring nature of romantic love, it also speaks to the universal desire for companionship and the desire to build a lasting connection with another person. The song’s sincerity, paired with its acoustic-driven beauty, makes it an anthem for couples everywhere, reminding them of the simple yet profound joy of being in love. Whether played at weddings or cherished in quiet moments, “Thinking Out Loud” continues to touch hearts, earning its place as one of the most beloved love songs of the 21st century.
3. Perfect (2017)
“Perfect” is a breathtaking and romantic ballad from Ed Sheeran that encapsulates the pure joy of finding true love. Released as part of his 2017 album Divide, the track’s sweeping orchestration and heartfelt lyrics paint a vivid picture of a love story that feels both timeless and universal. From the very first note, the song’s lush strings and romantic melody create an atmosphere of enchantment, setting the stage for Sheeran’s emotionally charged vocals. The lyrics take us on a journey through a deep and genuine connection, from the initial meeting to the realization that this is a love meant to last. The line “Well, I found a woman, stronger than anyone I know” highlights the strength and security that comes from a true partnership, making it a celebration of unconditional love. The imagery of dancing under the stars and dreaming about a future together captures the magic of finding someone who complements you in every way. “Perfect” quickly became a wedding favorite, with its tender lyrics and romantic sentiment resonating deeply with couples who see themselves reflected in Sheeran’s words. Beyond its romantic themes, the song also speaks to the joy of growing old together, of finding someone who will stand by you through life’s challenges. “Perfect” is a masterclass in storytelling, as Sheeran crafts a song that feels deeply personal while also being universally relatable. With its sweeping musical arrangement and poignant lyrics, “Perfect” continues to be one of Sheeran’s most beloved hits, earning a place as an anthem for love in all its forms.
4. Castle on the Hill (2017)
With “Castle on the Hill,” Ed Sheeran takes listeners on an emotional journey back to his roots in Framlingham, Suffolk, England. This anthem of nostalgia and self-reflection paints a vivid picture of Sheeran’s childhood and the experiences that shaped him into the person he is today. Released in 2017 as the lead single from Divide, “Castle on the Hill” is as much about celebrating personal growth as it is about remembering where you came from. The song’s driving beat and energetic tempo mirror the feeling of youthful exuberance and the excitement of discovering who you are. Through the lyrics, Sheeran reflects on formative experiences, from his first love to the difficult moments that taught him valuable life lessons. The chorus, with its soaring vocals, expresses the longing for a place that holds personal significance, and the memories tied to that place become a metaphor for the journey of self-discovery. The track is an emotional celebration of roots and resilience, an ode to the people and places that leave an indelible mark on our hearts. The song also touches on the complexities of growing up, from the hardships to the triumphs, and how those experiences continue to influence us long after we’ve left them behind. With its mix of upbeat melodies and poignant storytelling, “Castle on the Hill” resonates with anyone who has ever looked back at their past with both pride and longing. Ed Sheeran’s ability to blend personal experience with universal themes makes this song not only a tribute to his own upbringing but also a powerful anthem for anyone who cherishes their roots.
5. Photograph (2015)
“Photograph” is a heartfelt ballad that captures the bittersweet nature of memories and the emotions tied to love and loss. Released in 2015 as part of x (Multiply), the song explores the theme of preserving precious moments in time, much like the photograph the song is named after. With its tender melody and evocative lyrics, “Photograph” speaks to anyone who has ever felt the weight of nostalgia, offering a sense of comfort in knowing that the memories we cherish never truly fade away. The song opens with a soft acoustic guitar, setting a reflective tone that complements Sheeran’s emotive vocals. “We keep this love in a photograph,” he sings, suggesting that even when relationships change or distance grows, the love and memories captured in time remain a constant. The lyric “Hold tight to the memories, they won’t fade away” offers solace to those who may be feeling the ache of separation or loss, reminding listeners that no matter where life takes them, their memories are always a part of them. “Photograph” is not just about holding on to the past, but about finding peace in the fact that love and experiences shape who we are, and they continue to live in our hearts. Sheeran’s ability to weave personal experience with universal feelings makes this song resonate deeply with audiences. The simple yet powerful lyrics, combined with the gentle instrumentation, create an intimate atmosphere, turning “Photograph” into a touching tribute to the beauty of love and the power of memory.
6. Galway Girl (2017)
“Galway Girl” is an energetic, feel-good song that blends folk music with pop, creating an infectious tune that celebrates both love and adventure. Released in 2017 as part of Divide, the song tells the story of a whirlwind romance with an Irish girl, capturing the excitement and spontaneity of young love. The track opens with a lively fiddle riff, setting the tone for the playful lyrics that follow. In this song, Ed Sheeran steps outside of his usual acoustic comfort zone, embracing a fusion of genres that combines pop sensibilities with Irish folk music. The catchy chorus—”She’s my Galway Girl”—becomes an anthem for anyone who’s experienced a summer romance or a love that feels carefree and full of life. Throughout the track, Sheeran’s voice dances with the upbeat tempo, embodying the joy and energy of the romance he describes. The song is filled with imagery of music, dancing, and late-night adventures, inviting listeners to reminisce about their own carefree moments. The combination of Sheeran’s storytelling and the lively instrumentation creates an infectious energy that makes “Galway Girl” a perfect sing-along anthem for festivals and gatherings. The song’s success highlights Sheeran’s versatility as an artist, as he seamlessly blends traditional folk influences with modern pop, creating a track that appeals to a broad audience. With its upbeat tempo, catchy hooks, and fun lyrics, “Galway Girl” stands as one of Ed Sheeran’s most celebrated tracks, showcasing his ability to create feel-good music that transcends cultural boundaries.
7. The A Team (2011)
“The A Team” marked Ed Sheeran’s debut single, introducing the world to his raw talent as a songwriter and storyteller. Released in 2011, the song stands as a hauntingly beautiful reflection on addiction, homelessness, and the struggles of those living on the fringes of society. With its soft acoustic guitar and understated production, “The A Team” allows Sheeran’s emotional delivery to take center stage. The song tells the story of a woman grappling with substance abuse, offering a candid and empathetic look at the challenges faced by individuals battling addiction. The song’s somber tone is balanced by Sheeran’s sensitive portrayal of the subject matter, and the lyrics convey both the pain and the hopelessness that come with addiction, as well as a glimmer of hope for redemption. “And they say she’s in the class A team” refers to both the woman’s place in a world of addiction and the label that society places on those caught in such struggles. The song’s simple yet poignant lyrics paint a picture of a life marred by hardship, but it also hints at the possibility of recovery, offering a message of compassion and understanding. “The A Team” propelled Sheeran into the spotlight, not just for its haunting melody but for its courage in addressing difficult and often taboo subjects. With its introspective nature and raw emotion, “The A Team” became a defining moment in Ed Sheeran’s career, showcasing his ability to craft music that touches on real, human issues with both sensitivity and grace.
8. I Don’t Care (2019)
“I Don’t Care” is a playful and upbeat anthem that explores the feeling of being out of place in social settings. A collaboration with Justin Bieber, the song became an instant hit in 2019, showcasing Ed Sheeran’s versatility as an artist. The track features a catchy rhythm and infectious energy, inviting listeners to embrace their uniqueness and enjoy the moment, no matter the circumstances. The song’s lyrics center around feeling awkward or disconnected in a social environment but finding solace in the presence of a friend who understands. The chorus—“I don’t care, I don’t care” echoes the sentiment of not letting external pressures dictate one’s mood or self-worth. It’s a song about rejecting societal expectations and finding comfort in the company of those who accept you for who you are. The playful chemistry between Sheeran and Bieber brings an additional layer of charm to the track, with the two artists effortlessly trading verses and harmonizing on the chorus. The upbeat tempo, combined with its carefree message, makes “I Don’t Care” a feel-good track perfect for any party or gathering. The song highlights Sheeran’s ability to blend humor and sincerity, creating music that resonates with listeners on a personal level. It’s a reminder to not take life too seriously and to surround oneself with people who make you feel good about being yourself. In both its melody and message, “I Don’t Care” is a celebration of individuality, friendship, and the freedom that comes with being unapologetically you.
9. Bad Habits (2021)
“Bad Habits” marks a bold evolution in Ed Sheeran’s sound, showcasing his ability to adapt and experiment with new genres while maintaining his signature style. Released in 2021, the song features a dance-pop beat that feels fresh and electrifying, with an infectious hook that immediately grabs your attention. The lyrics dive into the complexities of human temptation and indulgence, exploring the self-awareness that comes with recognizing harmful patterns yet being unable to break free. “Bad habits lead to late nights, ending alone” encapsulates the cycle of self-doubt and regret that often follows moments of impulsive behavior. The upbeat tempo and lively production contrast with the song’s deeper themes, creating an interesting juxtaposition between lightheartedness and introspection. Sheeran’s energetic delivery gives the song a sense of urgency, reflecting the internal conflict between desire and reason. The driving rhythm, coupled with the catchy chorus, makes “Bad Habits” a perfect anthem for those summer nights when letting go of inhibitions seems like the only option. At the same time, the song’s reflective lyrics encourage listeners to acknowledge their flaws and the consequences of their actions. “Bad Habits” is a testament to Sheeran’s ability to reinvent himself while staying true to his roots as a master of storytelling. The track’s commercial success further cements his status as one of the biggest stars in contemporary pop music, as it resonated with audiences worldwide and topped charts across the globe.
10. Sing (2014)
“Sing” is an upbeat and playful track from Ed Sheeran that shows off his range as an artist, blending pop and R&B influences with a fun, infectious energy. Released in 2014 as the lead single from his album x (Multiply), the song was produced by the legendary Pharrell Williams and features a groovy beat and catchy chorus that’s impossible not to dance to. The song encourages listeners to let loose and embrace the joy of music, with its fun, carefree vibe making it a perfect feel-good anthem. The playful lyrics urge the listener to get up and sing along, no matter what’s going on in life. The upbeat tempo, combined with the funky rhythm and Sheeran’s soulful vocals, creates a track that’s equal parts playful and exhilarating. “Sing” is a celebration of music’s ability to bring people together and uplift their spirits. The collaboration with Pharrell Williams adds a layer of funky energy to the track, with Sheeran’s smooth vocal delivery fitting seamlessly with the track’s upbeat tempo. The song’s infectious energy quickly made it a favorite at parties and on dance floors, proving that Sheeran is capable of creating music that transcends genres and brings people joy. With its blend of pop, R&B, and funk, “Sing” captures the spirit of fun and spontaneity that defines Sheeran’s musical versatility. Whether you’re dancing with friends or singing along in your car, “Sing” is a song that encourages everyone to embrace the joy of music and life.
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.
