Ed Sheeran is a global phenomenon, a musical powerhouse whose heartfelt lyrics and unforgettable melodies have captured the hearts of millions. From humble beginnings as a street performer in England to selling out stadiums worldwide, Ed’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. His music transcends genres, blending pop, folk, and R&B with an authenticity that resonates deeply with fans of all ages. Whether it’s a soulful ballad about love and loss or a foot-tapping anthem that gets everyone dancing, Ed Sheeran has a song for every moment and emotion.
But which of his songs have truly stood the test of time to become iconic anthems? In this article, we dive into the top 10 most popular Ed Sheeran songs of all time. These tracks have not only dominated the charts but also become the soundtrack to countless weddings, road trips, and late-night singalongs. From record-breaking hits to fan favorites, each song on this list showcases Ed’s unparalleled ability to craft music that feels deeply personal yet universally relatable. So, grab your headphones and get ready to rediscover the magic of Ed Sheeran as we count down his greatest musical masterpieces. Let’s find out which songs made the ultimate playlist!
1. Shape of You (2017)
Released in 2017, “Shape of You” quickly became a global sensation and remains one of Ed Sheeran’s most recognizable hits. Fusing elements of tropical house and pop with his unmistakable songwriting charm, the track tells the story of a passionate, spontaneous connection that blossoms in the most unexpected place—a bar, not a ballroom. The opening line, “The club isn’t the best place to find a lover,” sets a casual, relatable tone that resonated with millions of listeners. Co-written with Johnny McDaid and Steve Mac, the song’s minimalistic beat, melodic hooks, and rhythmic lyrics made it nearly impossible not to dance along. Its catchy chorus and percussive groove helped the track top charts worldwide, becoming one of the most streamed songs of all time. Beyond its commercial success, “Shape of You” marked a turning point in Sheeran’s career, showcasing his ability to adapt to contemporary sounds while staying true to his storytelling roots. Its blend of infectious rhythm and romantic curiosity struck a chord globally, cementing the song as a pop culture staple and a defining track of the 2010s.
2. Perfect (2017)
“Perfect”, released in 2017, is a modern love ballad that has become one of the most cherished romantic songs of the decade. Inspired by Ed Sheeran’s real-life relationship with his then-girlfriend (now wife), the song paints a picture of a tender and timeless romance. With heartfelt lyrics like “I found a love to carry more than just my secrets,” Sheeran captures the depth and vulnerability of finding someone to share your life with. The gentle acoustic guitar arrangement and lush string accompaniment give the track an intimate, fairy-tale feel that has made it a favorite at weddings and proposals around the world. Unlike some of Sheeran’s more upbeat hits, “Perfect” leans fully into its slow, sentimental pace, allowing every line to land with emotional weight. The track’s universal message of enduring love and its dreamy atmosphere have made it a go-to song for those celebrating deep, meaningful connections. Whether it’s played during a first dance or a quiet moment alone, “Perfect” encapsulates what it means to be wholly in love.
3. Thinking Out Loud (2014)
Released in 2014, “Thinking Out Loud” quickly established itself as one of Ed Sheeran’s most enduring romantic classics. Written alongside longtime collaborator Amy Wadge, the song offers a tender reflection on lifelong love and growing old with someone. Its soulful guitar riff and smooth groove provide a relaxed, timeless backdrop for Sheeran’s intimate vocals. The opening line, “When your legs don’t work like they used to before,” immediately signals a love that transcends physical attraction and time. The song gained massive popularity not just for its beautiful lyrics, but also for its iconic music video featuring Sheeran dancing—something fans had rarely seen from him. It resonated across generations, becoming a wedding favorite and love anthem. Its success was cemented by a Grammy win for Song of the Year, solidifying Sheeran’s status as a master of heartfelt songwriting. With its gentle blend of soul, pop, and acoustic elements, “Thinking Out Loud” continues to be a go-to track for moments that require sincerity and romance, proving that sometimes, the simplest declarations of love are the most powerful.
4. Photograph (2014)
“Photograph”, released in 2014, is a deeply emotional ballad that touches on the pain and beauty of long-distance relationships and the memories we cling to. With lyrics like “We keep this love in a photograph,” Ed Sheeran captures the essence of holding on to moments that can’t be relived, only remembered. The song’s soft acoustic guitar and gentle piano create an atmosphere of quiet reflection, perfectly complementing the vulnerability in his voice. It’s one of those songs that feels personal to Sheeran but also universally relatable to anyone who’s ever missed someone they love. Inspired by his own experiences of being away from loved ones due to touring, “Photograph” feels like a heartfelt letter to someone far away. The music video, filled with home footage of Sheeran growing up, adds an even more intimate touch, reinforcing the themes of nostalgia and cherished memories. It’s a song that encourages listeners to find comfort in keepsakes and mementos, reminding us that love can endure even when distance and time intervene. “Photograph” is a fan favorite for a reason—it speaks softly but powerfully about the ties that bind us, even when we’re apart.
5. Castle on the Hill (2017)
“Castle on the Hill”, released in 2017, is Ed Sheeran’s love letter to his hometown of Framlingham, Suffolk. Unlike many of his slower ballads, this song bursts with energy and emotion, driven by an anthemic guitar riff and dynamic percussion. From the opening lines, Sheeran invites us into his memories of youth, mischief, and growth, singing about “driving at ninety down those country lanes.” It’s a nostalgic ride through the places and people that shaped him—friends he’s lost touch with, first loves, and childhood adventures. The “castle” refers to the real-life Framlingham Castle, a symbol of his roots and the passage of time. What makes this track special is its raw honesty; Sheeran doesn’t shy away from mentioning past mistakes or the bittersweet nature of growing up. “Castle on the Hill” is both personal and universal, resonating with anyone who’s ever looked back at where they came from with fondness and a little ache. The soaring chorus and vivid imagery give the song an emotional punch, making it a powerful anthem of homecoming and reflection. It stands out as one of Sheeran’s most autobiographical and rousing tracks.
6. The A Team (2011)
Ed Sheeran’s debut single, “The A Team”, released in 2011, is a hauntingly beautiful song that introduced the world to his gift for storytelling. Unlike most pop tracks at the time, “The A Team” tackled deeply serious issues—addiction, homelessness, and vulnerability—through soft, acoustic melodies and poetic lyrics. The song was inspired by Sheeran’s visit to a shelter, where he met a woman whose struggles moved him profoundly. With lines like “It’s too cold outside for angels to fly,” Sheeran uses metaphor and gentle delivery to explore the pain of a life spiraling out of control. Despite its melancholy themes, the song doesn’t feel heavy—it’s compassionate and empathetic. The contrast between the delicate guitar arrangement and the raw subject matter creates a powerful emotional impact. “The A Team” was a bold choice for a debut, but it paid off, earning Sheeran critical acclaim and commercial success. It set the tone for his career: honest, unfiltered songwriting with a heart. The song not only resonated with listeners for its lyrical depth but also marked Sheeran as a serious artist unafraid to address uncomfortable truths through music that feels as personal as it is profound.
7. Bad Habits (2021)
With “Bad Habits”, released in 2021, Ed Sheeran took a bold turn from his signature acoustic sound to embrace a pulsating, synth-driven pop aesthetic. Departing from the stripped-down intimacy of his earlier ballads, this track dives into the darker corners of desire, impulse, and late-night escapism. “My bad habits lead to late nights, endin’ alone,” he sings, revealing a more hedonistic, almost self-destructive side of his personality. The song’s production is sleek and modern, with a danceable beat that contrasts sharply with the reflective nature of the lyrics. It’s a song about patterns—those moments when we know we’re slipping but do it anyway. The glossy synth-pop vibe, reminiscent of 1980s club tracks, shows Sheeran’s willingness to experiment with style while still anchoring the track in honest emotion. “Bad Habits” was a commercial success, dominating charts and radio playlists, and it marked a new chapter in his musical evolution. Though it feels sonically different from his earlier work, it still carries his lyrical signature—vulnerable, confessional, and real. With this track, Sheeran proved he could adapt and push his boundaries without losing the authenticity that fans love.
8. Galway Girl (2017)
“Galway Girl”, released in 2017, is one of Ed Sheeran’s most playful and infectious songs, blending pop with traditional Irish folk influences. The track tells the story of a whirlwind romance with a fiery Irish woman who captures the narrator’s heart with charm, sass, and a fiddle. “She played the fiddle in an Irish band / But she fell in love with an English man,” Sheeran sings in the catchy opening line, instantly setting the tone for a lively tale filled with pubs, dancing, and sparks flying. Co-written with Irish musicians, the song celebrates cultural fusion and personal connection, grounded in the singer’s real-life experiences. The upbeat tempo and cheeky lyrics make it hard not to smile or tap your foot along. It’s a departure from Sheeran’s usual introspective style, but his storytelling remains just as vivid. “Galway Girl” became a fan favorite almost instantly, especially in live performances where its energy electrifies the crowd. It’s fun, flirtatious, and full of character—a musical postcard from a spontaneous night that turned into something unforgettable. The song showcases Sheeran’s ability to embrace different genres while still delivering something unmistakably his own.
9. I Don’t Care (2019)
Released in 2019, “I Don’t Care” is a feel-good collaboration between Ed Sheeran and Justin Bieber that quickly climbed the charts with its breezy vibes and relatable message. The song is all about feeling out of place in social situations, only to find comfort and ease in the presence of someone special. With lyrics like “I don’t care when I’m with my baby, yeah,” the track offers a refreshing take on anxiety and the grounding effect of true connection. Built on a light, tropical-inspired beat, the song blends both artists’ voices seamlessly, highlighting their shared vulnerability and charisma. The production is slick, filled with subtle electronic flourishes that keep it radio-friendly without overpowering the song’s heart. At its core, “I Don’t Care” is about emotional safety—how being with the right person can make even the most uncomfortable spaces feel like home. It’s catchy without being shallow, a summer anthem that’s as much about love as it is about mental wellness. The collaboration felt effortless and sincere, and the song’s universal theme of belonging resonated widely with fans from both camps, becoming one of the year’s biggest hits.
10. Lego House (2011)
From his debut album, “Lego House” is one of Ed Sheeran’s most endearing early tracks, showcasing his knack for using simple metaphors to explore complex emotions. Released in 2011, the song likens the act of rebuilding a broken relationship to assembling a Lego structure—meticulous, patient, and hopeful. With lyrics like “I’m gonna pick up the pieces and build a Lego house,” Sheeran expresses the resilience and dedication it takes to repair love when it’s been damaged. The gentle acoustic melody and warm, understated vocals give the track an intimate feel, almost like a private conversation put to music. What makes this song stand out is its vulnerability—it’s not about grand romantic gestures, but about the quiet commitment to make things right. The music video, which famously features Rupert Grint as Sheeran’s doppelgänger, added a layer of intrigue and charm, further solidifying the song’s popularity. “Lego House” struck a chord with fans thanks to its emotional honesty and soothing sound. It’s a reminder that love, like Lego, may break or fall apart—but with care and patience, it can always be built back up, piece by piece.
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.
