When it comes to music that tugs at the heartstrings, gets your toes tapping, and creates unforgettable memories, few artists have the magic touch quite like Ed Sheeran. The British singer-songwriter has captivated millions with his heartfelt lyrics, soulful melodies, and undeniable charm. From intimate acoustic ballads to chart-topping pop anthems, Ed Sheeran has a song for every mood and moment. His music transcends genres, blending folk, pop, R&B, and even hip-hop, making him one of the most versatile and beloved artists of our generation.
But with so many incredible tracks under his belt, which songs truly stand out? In this article, we’re counting down the top 10 most popular Ed Sheeran songs of all time—those timeless hits that dominated the charts, racked up billions of streams, and struck a chord with fans worldwide. Whether you’re a longtime Sheerio or just discovering the genius of his music, this list will take you on a journey through the highlights of his incredible career. So grab your headphones, turn up the volume, and get ready to immerse yourself in the magic of Ed Sheeran’s greatest hits! Let’s dive into the songs that have defined a generation.
1. Shape of You (2017)
“Shape of You” is undoubtedly one of Ed Sheeran’s most iconic songs, a track that broke records and took the world by storm when it was released in 2017. From the very first beat, the song grabs your attention with its irresistible tropical house rhythm, which seamlessly blends with Ed’s melodic vocals. The lyrics tell the story of a night out that leads to an unexpected romance, capturing the excitement and spontaneity of love at first sight. The infectious rhythm, catchy chorus, and relatable lyrics made it a favorite on every playlist, whether you were at a party or listening on repeat by yourself. Ed’s signature mix of vulnerability and cheeky confidence shines through in the song’s narrative. What makes “Shape of You” so timeless is its ability to be both intimate and universally appealing at the same time. The track went on to break streaming records, becoming one of the most-played songs globally. The music video, with its fun and playful choreography, only added to its worldwide appeal. “Shape of You” is an undeniable hit that proves Ed Sheeran’s knack for creating songs that are both meaningful and massively popular.
2. Thinking Out Loud (2014)
“Thinking Out Loud,” released in 2014, became an instant wedding favorite, cementing its place as one of Ed Sheeran’s most loved ballads. The song, with its soulful guitar melodies and heartfelt lyrics, captures the essence of enduring love and devotion. From the opening strums of the guitar to the soaring vocals, the track envelops you in a warm embrace, making it impossible not to get lost in its sentiment. The lyrics speak to the beauty of growing old with someone, finding love that lasts beyond the physical and into the deeper, more spiritual connection. It’s the kind of song that makes you reflect on your own relationships, celebrating the simple moments that make love so special. The accompanying music video, featuring a stunning dance sequence between Ed and his love interest, only deepens the song’s romantic appeal. The graceful choreography and genuine chemistry between the two add to the song’s emotional impact. “Thinking Out Loud” is timeless in its celebration of love, and it’s a track that never fails to pull at the heartstrings. Its success made it a go-to for weddings, anniversaries, and any moment where love is in the air.
3. Perfect (2017)
“Perfect” is a love song that feels like a dream come true. Released in 2017, it’s a song that immediately captures the feeling of finding the person who makes everything feel right. With its gentle orchestration and Ed’s emotionally charged vocals, “Perfect” feels like a fairytale, but one that’s grounded in real, relatable emotions. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of love—pure, unconditional, and lasting. From the moment Ed sings, “I found a love, to carry more than just my secrets,” you know that this isn’t just a fleeting romance, but the kind of love that’s meant to last. The song’s progression is beautiful, slowly building to a swelling chorus that reflects the growth of the relationship. It’s the kind of track that feels timeless, evoking feelings of both nostalgia and hope for the future. The music video, set in a snowy landscape with the couple skating and laughing together, mirrors the song’s theme of joy and discovery. “Perfect” has become a modern-day love anthem, used in countless weddings and romantic celebrations. Its universal theme of finding a perfect match makes it a song for anyone who has ever felt like they found their soulmate.
4. Photograph (2015)
“Photograph,” released in 2015, is a deeply emotional track that taps into the universal feeling of missing someone while reminiscing on the memories you shared. With a simple yet poignant melody, this song highlights the way photographs freeze moments in time, preserving love and memories that would otherwise fade. Ed Sheeran’s tender vocals are paired with minimalistic guitar strums, allowing the lyrics to take center stage. The song’s narrative revolves around the nostalgia and longing that comes from looking back at photos of someone you love, but it’s also about holding onto the good moments as a way of keeping a piece of them with you. “Photograph” explores themes of distance—whether emotional or physical—and the way we preserve parts of our lives that are too important to forget. As the song builds, there’s a sense of vulnerability and acceptance that is both heart-wrenching and comforting. The accompanying music video shows home video footage, further emphasizing the idea of preserving memories. “Photograph” is a perfect track for anyone who has had to say goodbye or had to hold onto something beautiful from the past. It’s a beautiful reminder of the power of love and memory.
5. Castle on the Hill (2017)
“Castle on the Hill” is a nostalgic anthem that invites listeners into Ed Sheeran’s childhood and upbringing in Framlingham, England. Released in 2017 alongside “Shape of You,” this track showcases a different side of Ed’s songwriting—one that is full of vivid storytelling and personal reflection. From the very first line, “When I was six years old I broke my leg,” the song takes you on a journey through his formative years, filled with moments of growth, mistakes, and memories that shaped who he is today. The energetic beat and rousing chorus give the song an anthemic quality, making it feel like a celebration of youth, home, and the passage of time. As Ed recalls experiences from his small-town life, the track feels both universal and deeply personal. The line, “I’m on my way, driving at ninety down those country lanes,” encapsulates the freedom and excitement of being young and carefree. “Castle on the Hill” isn’t just a song about Ed’s past, though—it’s a tribute to everyone’s hometown, to the places that shaped them, and to the people who were there along the way. It’s a powerful, nostalgic look at growing up and never forgetting where you came from.
6. The A Team (2011)
“The A Team,” released in 2011, was the song that introduced Ed Sheeran to the mainstream, and it’s easy to see why it made such an impact. The song is haunting in its beauty, with delicate acoustic guitar and Ed’s raw, soulful voice carrying the weight of its heavy subject matter. The lyrics tell the story of a woman struggling with addiction and homelessness, and the song’s gentle arrangement contrasts sharply with the intensity of the topic. “The A Team” is a stark look at the darker side of life, with Ed’s songwriting exploring themes of desperation, loss, and hope. The simplicity of the song allows the message to shine through, and Ed’s ability to convey such a sensitive and difficult subject with empathy is what makes this track stand out. The rawness of the lyrics—“And they say she’s in the class A team”—hits hard, forcing listeners to confront a harsh reality while still offering a sense of compassion and understanding. The song’s understated beauty only adds to its power. “The A Team” marked the beginning of Ed’s journey as a storyteller, establishing him as an artist capable of capturing the complexities of life in his music.
7. Galway Girl (2017)
“Galway Girl” is an upbeat and fun track from Ed Sheeran’s 2017 album, Divide, and it’s one that instantly brings a smile to your face. A fusion of folk and pop, the song features lively instrumentation and a catchy melody that’s impossible not to dance to. The narrative centers around a romance with an Irish girl, and the lyrics paint a playful and vivid picture of their whirlwind connection. With lines like “She played the fiddle in an Irish band,” the song brings a lively Irish spirit to the forefront, complete with fiddles, guitars, and a bouncy rhythm. What makes “Galway Girl” stand out is its fusion of genres—Ed blends his signature storytelling style with an infectious Irish folk influence, making it a cross-cultural celebration of love, music, and adventure. The music video, filled with energetic dancing and colorful visuals, matches the song’s upbeat vibe perfectly. “Galway Girl” is a feel-good anthem that’s fun, catchy, and perfect for summer nights, and its infectious energy made it a global hit. It’s a track that’ll have you singing along, whether you know the words or not.
8. Happier (2017)
“Happier” is one of Ed Sheeran’s most poignant and emotionally charged songs, released in 2017 as part of Divide. With its stripped-back arrangement and haunting melody, the song explores the difficult emotions of seeing an ex-lover move on, a feeling that many can relate to. The lyrics are raw and honest, with Ed singing, “I hope you’re happier, but I’m not okay.” The vulnerability in his voice cuts straight to the heart, perfectly capturing the bittersweet sadness of watching someone you loved find happiness with someone else. The song’s simple acoustic arrangement allows the emotions to take center stage, and Ed’s delivery is so raw that it feels like he’s baring his soul to the listener. “Happier” is a song about letting go, accepting that some things are meant to end, and wishing the other person well even if it hurts. It resonates with anyone who’s ever had to move on from a relationship and is a reminder that healing isn’t always linear—it’s messy, it’s painful, but it’s ultimately necessary. This track’s emotional depth and honesty make it one of Ed Sheeran’s most moving songs.
9. I See Fire (2013)
“I See Fire,” released in 2013, was composed for The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug and is one of Ed Sheeran’s most cinematic and haunting tracks. The song perfectly captures the epic and dramatic essence of the film’s story, with its intimate acoustic arrangement and Ed’s soulful vocals bringing the tale of destruction and loss to life. The lyrics convey a sense of impending doom as Ed sings about watching the world burn, a metaphor for the destruction caused by war and greed. The haunting melody, combined with the emotional weight of the lyrics, gives the song a cinematic quality that feels larger than life. “I See Fire” is deeply personal, too—Ed’s reflective vocals create a feeling of sorrow and helplessness, resonating with listeners on a universal level. The song’s intimacy also contrasts with its grand, cinematic inspiration, making it stand out as one of Ed’s most unique tracks. It’s a powerful reminder of the fragility of life and the impact that small actions can have on the world around us. “I See Fire” isn’t just a movie tie-in—it’s a standalone piece of music that captures a moment of intense emotional clarity.
10. Bad Habits (2021)
“Bad Habits” marked a bold new era for Ed Sheeran in 2021, showcasing his versatility as an artist. The song introduced a more upbeat, dance-pop style to his repertoire, complete with an infectious beat and catchy hooks. With its energetic tempo and driving rhythm, “Bad Habits” is a track about indulgence, regret, and the consequences of one’s actions. Ed sings about falling into old patterns, letting his “bad habits” take over as he struggles with temptation. The production is slick and modern, featuring electronic elements that give the song a fresh, club-ready vibe. The upbeat tone of the track contrasts with the darker themes of the lyrics, creating a compelling dynamic that keeps listeners hooked. The accompanying music video, with Ed’s transformation into a vampire, adds a fun, surreal twist to the narrative. “Bad Habits” showcases Ed’s ability to evolve and experiment with different sounds, and it became an instant hit, dominating radio and streaming platforms. It’s a testament to Ed’s adaptability as an artist, able to blend introspection with infectious pop energy. “Bad Habits” is a perfect example of how Ed Sheeran continues to push his boundaries while staying true to his storytelling roots.
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.
