Few artists have captured the hearts of millions quite like Ed Sheeran. With his soulful voice, heartfelt lyrics, and remarkable ability to craft songs that resonate with listeners of all ages, Sheeran has cemented his place as one of the most iconic singer-songwriters of our generation. From intimate acoustic ballads to chart-topping pop anthems, his music has become the soundtrack to countless love stories, heartbreaks, and unforgettable moments.
In this article, we’re diving into the top 10 most popular Ed Sheeran songs of all time. These tracks have not only dominated airwaves and streaming platforms but also left an indelible mark on music history. Whether you’re a die-hard Sheeran fan or someone just discovering his genius, this list promises to evoke nostalgia, joy, and admiration for his unparalleled artistry.
From the tender vulnerability of “Thinking Out Loud” to the infectious energy of “Shape of You,” Ed Sheeran has consistently proven his ability to create timeless hits. So grab your headphones, turn up the volume, and get ready to relive the magic of these unforgettable songs as we celebrate the musical brilliance of Ed Sheeran!
1. Shape of You (2017)
When “Shape of You” was released on January 6, 2017, as part of Ed Sheeran’s Divide album, it became an unstoppable global hit. Blending tropical house beats with Sheeran’s signature acoustic pop sound, the song delivered an infectious energy that took over dance floors and radio stations worldwide. The track’s rhythmic pulse and catchy chorus made it one of the most recognizable songs of the decade.
Lyrically, “Shape of You” explores the thrill of attraction and romance, using playful and flirtatious storytelling. Lines like “The club isn’t the best place to find a lover, so the bar is where I go” set the scene for a modern love story built on chemistry and connection. The song’s minimalistic yet effective production—featuring looped marimba-like synths and an irresistible beat—made it a favorite for remixes and dance playlists.
Beyond its chart dominance, “Shape of You” broke multiple records, becoming one of the best-selling digital singles of all time. It topped the Billboard Hot 100 for 12 weeks and won the Grammy for Best Pop Solo Performance. Its universal appeal and fresh sound solidified Sheeran’s status as one of the defining artists of his generation. Even years after its release, “Shape of You” remains a staple in pop music and a testament to Sheeran’s ability to craft unforgettable melodies.
2. Perfect (2017)
A song that feels tailor-made for wedding first dances, “Perfect” is one of Ed Sheeran’s most beloved ballads. Released on March 3, 2017, as part of Divide, the track captures the magic of unconditional love with its simple yet deeply heartfelt lyrics. Inspired by Sheeran’s real-life romance, the song paints a picture of timeless devotion, emphasizing the beauty of cherishing someone through every stage of life.
Musically, “Perfect” is built on a delicate melody, featuring soft acoustic guitar and warm orchestral elements. Sheeran’s vocals shine as he delivers intimate lines like “I found a love to carry more than just my secrets”, reinforcing the song’s theme of deep emotional connection. The track’s gentle build-up leads to a soaring chorus, making it a powerful yet tender declaration of love.
The song’s popularity only grew when Sheeran released a duet version with Beyoncé, whose harmonies added a new depth to the already poignant ballad. Later, an orchestral version featuring Andrea Bocelli further showcased the song’s versatility and universal appeal. Whether played at romantic occasions or simply enjoyed for its sentimental beauty, “Perfect” remains one of Sheeran’s most touching and timeless compositions.
3. Thinking Out Loud (2014)
With its soulful melody and heartfelt lyrics, “Thinking Out Loud” quickly became one of Ed Sheeran’s most iconic love songs. Released on June 20, 2014, as part of his album x, the track embraces the idea of love that lasts a lifetime. Its warm, bluesy feel and smooth guitar accompaniment create a nostalgic yet timeless atmosphere, making it an instant classic.
Sheeran’s lyrics capture a love that endures through the years, expressed beautifully in lines like “When your legs don’t work like they used to before, and I can’t sweep you off of your feet”. The song’s sincerity resonated deeply with listeners, leading to its overwhelming commercial success. It became a chart-topping hit, spending multiple weeks at the top of the Billboard Hot 100 and earning Sheeran a Grammy for Song of the Year.
Adding to its charm, the song’s music video features an intimate ballroom dance routine performed by Sheeran himself, further emphasizing the song’s romantic essence. The combination of heartfelt storytelling and timeless instrumentation ensures that “Thinking Out Loud” remains a go-to song for anniversaries, weddings, and anyone who believes in love that stands the test of time.
4. Photograph (2014)
Released on June 20, 2014, as part of Sheeran’s album x, “Photograph” is a deeply emotional ballad that captures the power of memories and long-distance love. The song’s heartfelt lyrics and tender acoustic arrangement make it one of Sheeran’s most personal and touching tracks. Inspired by his own experiences with love and separation, the song paints a picture of holding onto cherished moments through photographs.
Built around a delicate fingerpicked guitar melody, “Photograph” gradually builds into a sweeping, cinematic chorus. The lyrics, “Loving can hurt sometimes, but it’s the only thing that I know”, express the bittersweet reality of love—both its beauty and its pain. Sheeran’s gentle vocal delivery adds an intimate quality, making the song feel like a private confession of longing and devotion.
The song became a fan favorite and was widely used in emotional moments across films, TV shows, and personal tributes. The music video, featuring nostalgic home footage of Sheeran growing up, further emphasized the song’s themes of preserving memories. With its universal message of love and nostalgia, “Photograph” remains one of Sheeran’s most beloved ballads, resonating with listeners who have ever missed someone they love.
5. Castle on the Hill (2017)
Released on January 6, 2017, alongside “Shape of You”, “Castle on the Hill” is a nostalgic anthem that celebrates Sheeran’s hometown of Framlingham, Suffolk. The song’s driving beat and vivid storytelling take listeners on a journey through Sheeran’s childhood and adolescence, reminiscing about friendships, first loves, and youthful adventures.
Unlike many of Sheeran’s softer ballads, “Castle on the Hill” has an anthemic rock feel, with soaring guitars and a powerful chorus. Lyrically, it’s a deeply personal reflection on his roots, as seen in lines like “I was running from my brother and his friends” and “These people raised me and I can’t wait to go home”. The song beautifully captures the universal feeling of longing for home, making it relatable to anyone who has ever looked back fondly on their past.
The energetic and uplifting nature of the track made it an instant fan favorite, often serving as a high-energy moment in Sheeran’s live performances. Whether you’re reminiscing about your own childhood or simply enjoying its infectious melody, “Castle on the Hill” is a song that evokes deep emotions while celebrating the place that shaped us.
6. The A Team (2011)
“The A Team” was the song that introduced the world to Ed Sheeran’s raw storytelling ability. Released on June 10, 2011, as the lead single from his debut album +, this haunting acoustic ballad tells the heartbreaking story of a woman struggling with addiction and hardship. Inspired by Sheeran’s experience performing at a homeless shelter, the song captures the harsh realities of life with poetic sensitivity.
With its delicate acoustic guitar melody and introspective lyrics, “The A Team” draws listeners into its somber yet beautiful world. The opening line, “White lips, pale face, breathing in snowflakes”, paints a vivid picture of despair, while the chorus subtly conveys the tragic circumstances of the protagonist. Unlike many pop songs, Sheeran doesn’t sugarcoat reality but instead delivers an honest and moving narrative.
The song resonated deeply with audiences and became Sheeran’s breakthrough hit, earning him a Grammy nomination for Song of the Year. It set the stage for his career, proving that heartfelt songwriting and storytelling could still thrive in mainstream music. Even today, “The A Team” remains one of Sheeran’s most powerful and meaningful songs, touching hearts with its poignant message.
7. Bad Habits (2021)
With “Bad Habits”, released on June 25, 2021, Ed Sheeran took a bold step in a new musical direction. Known for his acoustic-driven pop, Sheeran surprised fans with this dance-infused, synth-heavy track that explores the struggles of temptation and self-destructive behavior. The song’s pulsating beat and hypnotic melody create an infectious energy that contrasts with its darker lyrical themes.
The song’s lyrics, “My bad habits lead to late nights, ending alone”, reflect on moments of reckless indulgence, showing a more introspective and vulnerable side of Sheeran’s songwriting. The shift in style, featuring electronic production and a falsetto-driven chorus, demonstrated Sheeran’s versatility as an artist willing to experiment with new sounds.
Accompanied by a striking music video where Sheeran plays a vampire roaming the city at night, “Bad Habits” became a massive hit, topping charts worldwide. The song’s blend of pop, dance, and introspection solidified Sheeran’s ability to evolve while maintaining his signature emotional depth.
8. Galway Girl (2017)
“Galway Girl”, released on March 3, 2017, from Divide, is a vibrant fusion of pop and Irish folk music that captures the spirit of a whirlwind romance. Inspired by Sheeran’s love for Irish culture, the song tells the story of an unforgettable night with a strong-willed Irish woman. Its lively instrumentation, driven by fiddle and folk-inspired rhythms, makes it one of Sheeran’s most energetic and infectious tracks.
With lyrics like “She played the fiddle in an Irish band, but she fell in love with an English man”, the song paints a vivid picture of a fun-filled night of dancing and connection. The traditional Irish influences combined with Sheeran’s modern pop sensibilities make “Galway Girl” a standout track, particularly beloved in Ireland, where it became an unofficial anthem.
Though some critics were divided on its mix of genres, fans embraced the song’s upbeat and celebratory nature. Whether it’s played in pubs, festivals, or casual singalongs, “Galway Girl” is a reminder of Sheeran’s ability to craft music that brings people together in joy.
9. I See Fire (2013)
Written for The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, “I See Fire” showcases Ed Sheeran’s ability to craft deeply atmospheric and cinematic music. Released on November 5, 2013, the song perfectly captures the epic and emotional weight of the film. Sheeran’s haunting vocals and rich acoustic instrumentation make it one of his most unique and evocative tracks.
The lyrics, “If this is to end in fire, then we should all burn together”, reflect the film’s themes of unity and impending destruction. The song’s slow build-up, featuring layered harmonies and violin, adds to its haunting beauty. Sheeran’s storytelling ability shines through, making “I See Fire” feel like both a movie soundtrack and a standalone folk ballad.
The song became a favorite among both Hobbit fans and Sheeran’s listeners, showcasing his ability to merge fantasy with deeply human emotions. It remains one of his most atmospheric and cinematic works.
10. Shivers (2021)
Released on September 10, 2021, “Shivers” is an electrifying pop track that captures the rush of falling in love. With its pulsating beat, bright synths, and high-energy chorus, the song stands out as one of Sheeran’s most upbeat love anthems.
Lyrically, “Shivers” is a celebration of love’s intoxicating excitement, as seen in lines like “I wanna be that guy, I wanna kiss your eyes”. The song’s dynamic production, featuring driving percussion and layered harmonies, makes it a perfect feel-good hit.
Its infectious melody and danceable rhythm made “Shivers” a commercial success, proving that Sheeran can effortlessly blend romance with a club-ready sound. Whether played on the radio or at a party, this song radiates pure joy.
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.
