Few artists have left as indelible a mark on modern music as Ed Sheeran. With his soulful voice, heartfelt lyrics, and unparalleled ability to tell stories through song, he has captured the hearts of millions around the world. From busking on street corners in his early days to selling out massive arenas, Ed Sheeran’s journey is as inspiring as the music he creates. Over the years, he’s gifted us with a treasure trove of chart-topping hits that have become the soundtrack to countless moments—whether it’s falling in love, healing a broken heart, or simply celebrating life.
This article dives deep into the magic of Ed Sheeran’s music as we count down his ten most popular songs of all time. These tracks have defined his career, broken streaming records, and earned him a permanent spot in pop culture history. From the romantic ballads that make us swoon to the upbeat anthems that get us dancing, these hits showcase the versatility and genius of one of music’s brightest stars. So, grab your headphones, turn up the volume, and get ready to rediscover the songs that made Ed Sheeran the global icon he is today!
1. Shape of You (2017)
Released in 2017 as part of ÷ (Divide), “Shape of You” quickly became one of Ed Sheeran’s biggest hits, solidifying his status as a global pop sensation. The song’s infectious beat, driven by a dancehall-inspired rhythm and tropical house elements, made it an instant earworm. Lyrically, it tells the story of a passionate romance that begins in a bar, emphasizing attraction and chemistry through playful, rhythmic verses.
The song’s upbeat and energetic production, paired with Sheeran’s signature storytelling, resonated with listeners worldwide. With lines like “I’m in love with the shape of you, we push and pull like a magnet do,” the track captures the thrill of newfound love in a catchy, memorable way. It topped charts in over 30 countries and shattered streaming records, becoming one of the most-played songs of all time on platforms like Spotify and Apple Music.
Despite its club-ready production, “Shape of You” retains Sheeran’s signature acoustic charm, blending pop sensibilities with an intimate, conversational delivery. The song’s massive success earned it a Grammy nomination and cemented its place as a defining track of the late 2010s. Even years after its release, it remains a staple on party playlists and radio stations worldwide.
2. Thinking Out Loud (2014)
Few songs have captured the essence of timeless romance quite like “Thinking Out Loud.” Released in 2014 as part of Sheeran’s x (Multiply) album, this heartfelt ballad became an instant classic, beloved by couples everywhere. With its soulful, blues-inspired melody and touching lyrics, the song paints a picture of enduring love, making it a favorite choice for weddings and anniversaries.
Lines like “Darling, I will be loving you ’til we’re 70” highlight the song’s central theme—love that stands the test of time. Sheeran’s warm, emotive vocals add a deeply personal touch, making listeners feel as if he’s singing directly to them. The gentle guitar work and smooth rhythm give the track an intimate feel, reminiscent of classic love songs from decades past.
“Thinking Out Loud” became one of Sheeran’s most successful songs, earning him a Grammy Award for Song of the Year in 2016. Its accompanying music video, featuring an elegant ballroom dance routine, further enhanced its romantic appeal. The song’s universal message and timeless quality ensure that it will continue to be a cherished favorite for years to come.
3. Perfect (2017)
“Perfect” is one of Ed Sheeran’s most heartfelt love songs, released in 2017 as part of ÷ (Divide). The track carries a classic, almost fairytale-like romance, making it a modern-day wedding anthem. With its tender lyrics and sweeping orchestration, it captures the magic of finding someone who feels like a soulmate.
The lyrics tell the story of young love that grows into something lasting, with lines like “I found a love for me, darling, just dive right in and follow my lead.” The song evokes a sense of nostalgia and deep emotional connection, making it relatable to listeners of all ages. Unlike many of Sheeran’s other hits, “Perfect” leans into a more traditional ballad style, featuring soft guitar melodies and a cinematic string arrangement.
The song’s popularity led to multiple versions, including a duet with Beyoncé and an orchestral rendition with Andrea Bocelli. Each version brought a unique charm, further cementing “Perfect” as one of Sheeran’s most beloved songs. Whether played at weddings, anniversaries, or quiet moments of reflection, its sincerity and beauty continue to resonate with fans worldwide.
4. Photograph (2014)
“Photograph” is one of Ed Sheeran’s most poignant and emotionally charged ballads, released in 2014 as part of his x (Multiply) album. The song beautifully captures the bittersweet nature of love and distance, weaving a heartfelt story of longing and memory through delicate acoustic melodies.
The lyrics reflect on the power of photographs to preserve love and emotions, with lines like “We keep this love in a photograph, we made these memories for ourselves.” It’s a touching tribute to relationships that must endure separation, whether due to time, distance, or life’s unexpected changes. Sheeran’s soft yet passionate vocal delivery adds an intimate feel, making the song deeply relatable for anyone who has experienced love from afar.
“Photograph” stands out for its minimalist production, allowing Sheeran’s vocals and acoustic guitar to take center stage. The song gradually builds in intensity, with gentle percussion and background harmonies amplifying its emotional weight. Its universal theme and heartfelt sincerity struck a chord with listeners, turning it into one of Sheeran’s most beloved tracks. The accompanying music video, featuring real footage from Sheeran’s childhood, further deepened its sentimental appeal, making “Photograph” a timeless ode to love and nostalgia.
5. Castle on the Hill (2017)
Released in 2017 as a companion to “Shape of You,” “Castle on the Hill” offers a stark contrast in tone and theme. While its counterpart explores modern romance, this track is a deeply personal ode to Sheeran’s childhood and hometown of Framlingham, Suffolk. The song’s anthemic energy, soaring chorus, and nostalgic storytelling make it one of his most powerful tracks.
The lyrics take listeners on a journey through Sheeran’s formative years, reflecting on friendships, mistakes, and the places that shaped him. Lines like “I was younger then, take me back to when I found my heart and broke it here” evoke a sense of longing for the past, making the song deeply relatable to anyone reminiscing about their youth.
Musically, “Castle on the Hill” blends folk, rock, and pop influences, featuring driving guitars and a cinematic build-up that mirrors the rush of nostalgia. The song’s dynamic production and emotional depth made it an instant hit, resonating with fans who connected with its themes of home and growing up. It remains a staple in Sheeran’s live performances, inspiring singalongs and heartfelt moments.
6. The A Team (2011)
Ed Sheeran’s debut single, “The A Team,” introduced the world to his raw storytelling ability when it was released in 2011. A haunting acoustic ballad, the song tackles themes of addiction and homelessness with sensitivity and poetic depth. Inspired by Sheeran’s experience performing at a homeless shelter, the track offers a moving portrait of struggle and survival.
The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a woman caught in the cycle of drug addiction, with heartbreaking lines like “It’s too cold outside for angels to fly.” Sheeran’s gentle yet poignant vocal delivery makes the story feel deeply personal, drawing listeners into the character’s world. Unlike many mainstream pop songs, “The A Team” doesn’t shy away from difficult topics, showcasing Sheeran’s willingness to tackle real-life issues in his music.
The song’s delicate acoustic arrangement, paired with its emotional weight, struck a chord with audiences, earning Sheeran a Grammy nomination for Song of the Year. “The A Team” set the foundation for his career, proving that deeply personal songwriting could find a place in the mainstream. Over a decade later, it remains one of his most respected and enduring songs.
7. Galway Girl (2017)
“Galway Girl” is one of the most infectious and energetic tracks from Sheeran’s ÷ (Divide) album, blending pop with Irish folk influences. Released in 2017, the song tells the lively story of a whirlwind romance with a woman from Galway, Ireland, creating an upbeat and danceable celebration of love and culture.
The lyrics vividly narrate the couple’s adventures, from drinking Guinness on the streets to dancing to traditional Irish music. Lines like “She played the fiddle in an Irish band, but she fell in love with an English man” capture the song’s playful and romantic spirit. The inclusion of traditional Irish instrumentation, including the fiddle and tin whistle, adds authenticity and charm to the track.
Despite some initial skepticism from critics, “Galway Girl” became a massive hit, especially in Ireland, where it topped the charts. Its irresistible melody and foot-stomping rhythm made it a fan favorite at concerts, proving that Sheeran’s love for folk music could successfully blend with mainstream pop. The song’s music video, featuring actress Saoirse Ronan, further enhanced its appeal, turning “Galway Girl” into one of Sheeran’s most celebrated and energetic songs.
8. Happier (2017)
“Happier,” from Ed Sheeran’s ÷ (Divide) album, is a melancholic ballad that delves into the emotions of seeing an ex move on with someone else. Released in 2017, the song showcases Sheeran’s ability to convey deep vulnerability through simple yet powerful lyrics.
The lyrics explore the pain of heartbreak with a mix of regret and bittersweet acceptance, as Sheeran sings, “I saw you in another’s arms, only a month we’ve been apart.” The song captures the universal feeling of longing for a past love while coming to terms with their happiness in a new relationship. His emotive delivery makes each line feel deeply personal, resonating with listeners who have experienced similar emotions.
Musically, “Happier” features a minimalist arrangement, primarily driven by gentle guitar and soft percussion, allowing Sheeran’s voice to take center stage. The song’s melancholic yet soothing atmosphere makes it a standout ballad in his catalog. Its heartfelt storytelling and emotional depth have made “Happier” a favorite among fans, proving that sometimes the simplest melodies carry the most powerful messages.
9. Bad Habits (2021)
“Bad Habits” marked a bold new direction for Ed Sheeran when it was released in 2021. Moving away from his signature acoustic style, the song embraces an energetic dance-pop sound with a pulsating beat and electronic influences. The track became an instant hit, proving Sheeran’s versatility as an artist.
Lyrically, “Bad Habits” explores the consequences of reckless behavior, with Sheeran reflecting on self-destructive tendencies that he struggles to break. Lines like “My bad habits lead to late nights, ending alone” capture the internal battle between temptation and self-control. Despite its introspective themes, the song’s infectious chorus and upbeat tempo make it a club-ready anthem.
The song’s music video, featuring Sheeran as a vampire in a surreal neon-lit world, added to its intrigue and creativity. “Bad Habits” topped charts worldwide and showcased Sheeran’s ability to evolve his sound while maintaining his signature lyrical depth. Its success reaffirmed his dominance in the pop world and demonstrated his willingness to take artistic risks.
10. I See Fire (2013)
“I See Fire,” written for The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug soundtrack in 2013, is one of Sheeran’s most cinematic and evocative songs. Blending haunting melodies with Celtic-inspired instrumentation, the song perfectly complements the epic fantasy film.
The lyrics vividly describe the destruction and chaos brought by the dragon Smaug, with lines like “Oh, misty eye of the mountain below, keep careful watch of my brothers’ souls.” Sheeran’s emotive delivery and the song’s dramatic buildup create a powerful and immersive experience. The inclusion of folk elements, such as the fiddle and layered harmonies, gives it a timeless, ancient quality.
“I See Fire” was praised for its haunting beauty and lyrical depth, showcasing Sheeran’s ability to craft songs that feel both intimate and grand. The track became a fan favorite, not just among Hobbit enthusiasts, but among Sheeran’s wider audience, proving his talent for storytelling extends far beyond love songs.
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.
