Ed Sheeran, a name synonymous with heartfelt lyrics, unforgettable melodies, and soul-stirring performances, has become one of the most celebrated artists of our generation. From singing on the streets of London to selling out stadiums across the globe, his meteoric rise to fame is a testament to his unparalleled talent and undeniable charm. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or simply someone who can’t resist humming along to his catchy tunes, there’s no denying the impact his music has had on millions worldwide.
In this article, we’re taking a deep dive into Ed Sheeran’s musical legacy to uncover the top 10 most popular songs that have defined his career. These are the tracks that have topped charts, broken records, and captured the hearts of listeners everywhere. From the romantic ballads that have soundtracked countless weddings to the upbeat anthems that get crowds singing in unison, this list is a celebration of Sheeran’s artistry and versatility.
So, grab your headphones, turn up the volume, and get ready to relive some of the most iconic moments in Ed Sheeran’s discography. Let’s count down the tracks that have made him a global sensation!
1. Shape of You (2017)
Released in January 2017 as part of the Divide album, “Shape of You” immediately became a global sensation, topping the charts in over 30 countries. This infectious track, blending tropical house-inspired beats with Ed Sheeran’s smooth and melodic vocals, set a new benchmark for pop music. The song’s rhythmic foundation, combined with a catchy, almost hypnotic hook—”I’m in love with the shape of you”—made it impossible not to sing along. The lyrics tell a playful, flirtatious story of two people meeting in a bar and the irresistible chemistry that follows. There’s something universally relatable about the attraction, and the combination of romance with lighthearted storytelling helped the song resonate with a broad audience.
“Shape of You” is more than just a dance anthem; it has a unique ability to balance pop with a rhythmic energy that makes you want to move while still maintaining depth in its storytelling. The minimalist production, with a heavy emphasis on percussion, was a departure from Sheeran’s usual style, blending pop and R&B influences effortlessly. Its global success and multiple Grammy nominations underscore its enduring appeal, making it not only one of Sheeran’s biggest hits but also a defining track of the 2010s pop era.
2. Thinking Out Loud (2014)
“Thinking Out Loud,” released in September 2014 as part of Sheeran’s x album, is an utterly romantic ballad that has captured the hearts of millions around the world. Its smooth, soulful melody combined with lyrics that express unconditional love, made it a wedding favorite and one of Sheeran’s most beloved songs. With lines like, “Take me into your loving arms / Kiss me under the light of a thousand stars,” the song taps into the timeless and universal desire to be loved deeply and completely, no matter the passage of time.
Sheeran’s vocal performance here is tender and heartfelt, perfectly complementing the song’s theme of enduring love. The acoustic guitar arrangement, gentle percussion, and string section create a beautiful, timeless sound that elevates the song’s emotional impact. “Thinking Out Loud” became an anthem for couples around the world, symbolizing long-lasting love and the joy of growing old together. It won the Grammy for Song of the Year and helped solidify Sheeran’s place as one of the leading songwriters of his generation. The song’s heartfelt message, combined with its soothing melody, continues to make it a staple in romantic music playlists worldwide.
3. Perfect (2017)
“Perfect,” released in March 2017 as part of Sheeran’s Divide album, is a deeply sincere love song that has become an anthem for couples everywhere. With its romantic lyrics and simple acoustic arrangement, the track exudes a sense of warmth and intimacy. The song was inspired by Sheeran’s real-life relationship and paints a picture of a perfect love story, with imagery of dancing under the stars, enjoying quiet moments, and cherishing each other in every way. The lyrics, “Well, I found a woman, stronger than anyone I know,” reflect the deep admiration Sheeran has for his partner and the beauty of sharing a life together.
The song’s acoustic simplicity, paired with sweeping strings and a rich, emotive vocal performance from Sheeran, gives “Perfect” a timeless quality. It’s a song that doesn’t try to be overly complex but rather focuses on the purity of love and the joy of finding someone to share your life with. With its universal appeal, “Perfect” has become a wedding favorite, much like “Thinking Out Loud.” The song’s emotional weight and beautiful melody have ensured its place as one of Sheeran’s most iconic tracks, and its status as a fan favorite continues to grow.
4. Photograph (2014)
“Photograph,” released in June 2014 as part of Sheeran’s x album, is a beautifully nostalgic ballad about the power of memories and the emotional connection we hold to moments captured in photographs. With its delicate finger-picked guitar and Sheeran’s emotive, soothing vocals, the song creates a heartfelt reflection on love and longing. The lyrics speak to the bittersweet nature of holding on to the past, capturing the way photographs allow us to preserve memories, even when time and distance pull us apart. “We keep this love in a photograph / We made these memories for ourselves,” Sheeran sings, evoking a sense of sentimental attachment to the images that represent the most precious moments in life.
The simplicity of the production is what makes “Photograph” so powerful—there are no frills, just the raw beauty of Sheeran’s songwriting and his ability to evoke deep emotions. Whether it’s a lost love, the passing of time, or a cherished memory, the song resonates with anyone who has ever looked at a photograph and felt the weight of the past. “Photograph” is a poignant reminder that, even as time moves on, the memories we create and the love we share are preserved forever in our hearts.
5. Castle on the Hill (2017)
“Castle on the Hill,” released in January 2017 alongside “Shape of You,” is a nostalgic anthem that takes listeners back to Sheeran’s childhood in Framlingham, Suffolk. The song is an energetic and vibrant recounting of his formative years, filled with stories of youthful adventure, friendship, and the lessons learned along the way. The driving beat, paired with Sheeran’s passionate vocals, evokes both a sense of joy and sentimentality as he reflects on the places and people that shaped him into who he is today.
With lines like, “I’m on my way / Driving at 90 down those country lanes,” the song paints a vivid picture of Sheeran’s upbringing, capturing the raw, unfiltered energy of his youth. “Castle on the Hill” is a celebration of roots and growth, highlighting the importance of remembering where you come from even as you move forward in life. It’s a love letter to the town that helped shape him and the experiences that shaped his identity. The song’s upbeat tempo and powerful storytelling make it both a personal reflection and a universal anthem about the enduring connection we have with our hometowns.
6. Bad Habits (2021)
“Bad Habits,” released in June 2021 as the lead single from Sheeran’s Equals album, marked a dramatic shift in his musical style. The song embraces a dance-pop vibe, complete with a pulsating beat and catchy hooks that make it impossible not to move along with the rhythm. The track is about the struggle with temptation, self-reflection, and the desire to break free from destructive patterns. Sheeran’s lyrics explore the tension between indulging in bad habits and the yearning for change, making it a relatable anthem for anyone who has struggled with self-control.
The production is sleek and modern, with shimmering synths and a driving bassline that propels the song forward. The infectious energy of “Bad Habits” is matched by its clever, self-aware lyrics. “Every time you come around / You know I can’t say no,” Sheeran sings, capturing the pull of bad choices and the vulnerability of trying to resist them. This song marks a bold new direction for Sheeran, showcasing his ability to experiment with new sounds while still maintaining the heartfelt storytelling that fans know and love. With its upbeat tempo and relatable message, “Bad Habits” became one of Sheeran’s most successful tracks.
7. The A Team (2011)
“The A Team,” released in June 2011 as the lead single from Sheeran’s debut album +, introduced the world to his raw, poetic storytelling style. The song, inspired by the struggles of a homeless woman battling addiction, is hauntingly beautiful and emotionally raw. With its simple acoustic guitar arrangement and Sheeran’s heartfelt vocals, the song paints a poignant picture of the harsh realities of life on the streets, capturing the despair and longing for hope in a world that often turns a blind eye to suffering.
“The A Team” is a masterclass in songwriting, using vivid imagery and evocative lyrics to tell a heartbreaking story. “It’s too cold outside / For angels to fly,” Sheeran sings, capturing the sense of isolation and hopelessness that accompanies addiction. The song’s powerful message of compassion and understanding struck a chord with listeners, earning Sheeran widespread acclaim and critical recognition. “The A Team” remains one of Sheeran’s most iconic songs, known for its vulnerability, emotional depth, and its ability to shine a light on difficult social issues through music.
8. Lego House (2011)
“Lego House,” released in November 2011 as part of +, is a tender, introspective love song that uses the metaphor of rebuilding a house to symbolize mending a relationship. The song’s gentle guitar work, combined with Sheeran’s sincere, heartfelt vocals, creates a warm and intimate atmosphere that invites listeners into a space of emotional vulnerability. The lyrics speak to the fragility of relationships and the desire to rebuild trust and connection after mistakes.
With lines like, “I’m gonna paint you by numbers / And color you in,” Sheeran expresses a longing to repair the broken pieces of a relationship, piece by piece, with patience and dedication. The track captures the vulnerability that comes with love, admitting flaws and working towards something stronger and more lasting. “Lego House” became a fan favorite, not only because of its catchy melody but also for its honest portrayal of the complexities of love and reconciliation. It’s a song that resonates with anyone who has ever felt the need to rebuild something broken, making it one of Sheeran’s most cherished tracks.
9. Galway Girl (2017)
“Galway Girl,” released in March 2017 as part of the Divide album, is an infectious blend of Irish folk and pop music that became an instant hit. The song tells the story of a whirlwind romance between a young man and a spirited Irish girl. The upbeat tempo, lively fiddle melodies, and Sheeran’s energetic performance bring a sense of celebration and joy, making it a perfect anthem for dancing and fun.
The lyrics tell the story of a carefree love affair, with Sheeran describing the girl’s charm and the unforgettable chemistry between them. The mix of pop elements with traditional Irish instrumentation makes the song stand out in Sheeran’s catalog, showcasing his ability to fuse genres and create something unique. “Galway Girl” became a global favorite, with fans from all over the world enjoying its catchy tune and lively spirit. Its cultural references, combined with Sheeran’s infectious energy, made it a cross-genre smash hit, further cementing his reputation as one of the most versatile artists of his generation.
10. I Don’t Care (2019)
“I Don’t Care,” released in May 2019 as a collaboration with Justin Bieber, is a lighthearted, feel-good anthem about finding comfort and solace in love, despite the chaos and discomfort of social anxiety. The track’s breezy beat and playful lyrics convey a sense of ease and positivity, making it an instant summer hit. The song’s upbeat energy, combined with its relatable themes of social discomfort, made it a perfect soundtrack for moments when you just want to escape the pressures of the world and focus on the joy of being with someone special.
The lyrics explore the comfort of finding someone who understands you, even in social situations that might feel overwhelming or awkward. “I don’t care when I’m with my baby,” the duo sings, capturing the sense of peace and happiness that comes from being with someone who makes everything else fade into the background. The song’s catchy chorus and easygoing vibe made it a favorite for listeners looking for a fun, carefree tune. As a collaboration between two of pop’s biggest stars, “I Don’t Care” was a smash hit, showcasing Sheeran’s ability to create infectious pop music with universal appeal.
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.
