Ed Sheeran, the chart-topping musical maestro, has captivated hearts around the globe with his unique blend of heartfelt lyrics and infectious melodies. From intimate ballads to upbeat anthems, his songs have not only topped the charts but also become anthems for love, loss, and everything in between. As we delve into the top 10 most popular Ed Sheeran songs of all time, prepare to embark on a melodious journey that showcases the evolution of this incredible artist. Each track tells a story, weaving personal experiences and universal themes into unforgettable tunes that resonate with fans of all ages. With collaborations featuring some of the biggest names in the industry and a knack for creating addictive hooks, Ed has solidified his place in music history. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual listener, these iconic songs have something for everyone. Get ready to rediscover the magic behind Ed Sheeran’s most beloved tracks and find out which songs have left an indelible mark on the music world!
1. “Shape of You” (2017)
“Shape of You” exploded onto the music scene in 2017 and quickly became one of Ed Sheeran’s most iconic and commercially successful singles. With its irresistible rhythm and dancehall-inspired beat, the song draws listeners into a story of spontaneous romance that begins in the unlikeliest of places—a bar. What makes the track so magnetic is its combination of sensual lyrics and minimalistic, percussive production that keeps the energy pulsing from start to finish. Sheeran’s smooth vocal delivery adds to the song’s flirtatious tone, capturing the excitement of a new connection built on mutual attraction. Lyrically, the track focuses on physical chemistry, but it’s wrapped in playful, accessible storytelling that makes it universally appealing. The chorus—”I’m in love with the shape of you”—is instantly recognizable and became a global earworm, topping charts in more than 30 countries. Even years after its release, “Shape of You” remains a go-to song for everything from workout playlists to wedding dance floors. It solidified Sheeran’s place in mainstream pop and demonstrated his ability to create genre-blending hits that resonate with listeners across the globe.
2. “Perfect” (2017)
“Perfect” is one of Ed Sheeran’s most beloved ballads, released in 2017 as part of his album ÷ (Divide). The song tells a timeless love story with a simplicity that feels genuine and deeply personal. Inspired by his own relationship, Sheeran crafts a vivid narrative about dancing under the stars, feeling like everything in the world is right, and growing old with someone you adore. His vocals are gentle and heartfelt, gliding over soft guitar and orchestral swells that elevate the song to cinematic heights. “Perfect” has become a staple at weddings, anniversaries, and romantic milestones because of its sincerity and emotional resonance. The lyrics, while straightforward, are packed with universal truths about love—its quiet moments, its lasting power, and its ability to make life feel extraordinary. Whether you’re in love or simply dreaming of it, this song feels like a warm embrace. Its popularity has only grown over time, with various duet versions—including a standout one with Beyoncé—adding new layers to its legacy. “Perfect” captures the kind of love everyone longs for: simple, enduring, and completely beautiful.
3. “Thinking Out Loud” (2014)
“Thinking Out Loud” is the kind of love song that feels like it’s always existed, timeless in both melody and message. Released in 2014, this track became a breakout hit from Sheeran’s x (Multiply) album and solidified his reputation as one of modern music’s most heartfelt songwriters. With its soft guitar strumming, tender lyrics, and soulful delivery, the song speaks of a love that’s meant to last—not just in the present, but well into old age. Lines like “We found love right where we are” capture the beauty of everyday romance without the need for grand gestures. The song’s music video, featuring Sheeran performing an elegant ballroom dance, became instantly iconic and revealed another layer of vulnerability and charm. “Thinking Out Loud” became a wedding favorite almost overnight, resonating with couples around the world. It’s a song that doesn’t just talk about love—it makes you feel it. It earned Sheeran a Grammy for Song of the Year and remains a career-defining moment, proving that honest songwriting and emotional authenticity can create something truly unforgettable.
4. “Castle on the Hill” (2017)
“Castle on the Hill” is Ed Sheeran’s love letter to his hometown of Framlingham, Suffolk. Released in 2017 alongside “Shape of You,” the song trades pop polish for raw nostalgia and sweeping instrumentation. It’s an anthem about youth, friendships, growing pains, and the kind of memories that shape who we become. From the opening guitar riff, there’s a driving energy that propels the listener through snapshots of Sheeran’s adolescence—running from the law, smoking hand-rolled cigarettes, and falling in love for the first time. The lyrics are packed with vivid imagery, yet there’s a universal quality to them that makes you think about your own childhood streets and the people you’ve lost touch with. The chorus, with its soaring vocals, evokes a mix of joy and longing, making it an emotional rollercoaster in the best way. It’s not just about one man’s journey home—it’s about everyone’s. “Castle on the Hill” captures the bittersweet feeling of looking back while still moving forward, making it one of Sheeran’s most powerful and relatable tracks.
5. “Photograph” (2015)
“Photograph,” released in 2015, is one of Ed Sheeran’s most emotionally resonant tracks. Built around a simple acoustic guitar and soft piano, the song is a reflection on long-distance love and the comforting power of memories. “We keep this love in a photograph” isn’t just a lyric—it’s a promise to preserve moments and emotions even when physical closeness isn’t possible. Sheeran’s vocal performance is gentle, almost fragile at times, and perfectly captures the vulnerability of missing someone. The song’s emotional weight is enhanced by its universal message: whether you’re separated by miles, time, or loss, love can still live on through the memories we cherish. The music video, which features real footage from Sheeran’s childhood and rise to fame, adds another layer of intimacy that fans adore. “Photograph” is often used to commemorate relationships, whether romantic or familial, and it continues to resonate deeply with audiences around the world. It’s a reminder that even when people are gone, love doesn’t have to fade—it can be held in something as simple and powerful as a picture.
6. “The A Team” (2011)
“The A Team” marked Ed Sheeran’s arrival into the music world with a song that was both understated and unforgettable. Released in 2011 as his debut single, it took a bold risk by addressing themes of addiction, poverty, and loneliness—topics rarely explored in mainstream pop at the time. Inspired by Sheeran’s time volunteering at a homeless shelter, the song tells the story of a young woman caught in the grip of drug abuse and street life. Delivered over a delicate fingerpicked guitar melody, his lyrics paint a stark but compassionate portrait. “It’s too cold outside for angels to fly” is one of the most haunting lines in his discography, capturing both the fragility and quiet strength of the song’s subject. Despite its heavy themes, the song never feels preachy. Instead, it humanizes and dignifies its characters. The minimal production allows Sheeran’s storytelling to shine, making listeners pause, reflect, and perhaps see the world a little differently. “The A Team” was a breakout success, earning Grammy nominations and laying the foundation for a career built on empathy, honesty, and powerful songwriting.
7. “Galway Girl” (2017)
“Galway Girl” is a lively, genre-blending track that captures Ed Sheeran’s love for storytelling and cultural celebration. Released in 2017 on his ÷ (Divide) album, the song fuses traditional Irish folk elements with pop beats to tell the tale of a whirlwind romance with a feisty girl from Galway. From the first few bars, you’re pulled into a world of dancing in pubs, late-night adventures, and the kind of chemistry that makes your heart race. The fiddle-infused instrumentation gives the track an authentic Celtic flair, while the catchy hook—“She played the fiddle in an Irish band / But she fell in love with an English man”—makes it instantly singable. Sheeran’s playful lyrics and conversational style make it feel like you’re being told a personal story over drinks with friends. It’s lighthearted, infectious, and full of personality. “Galway Girl” may not be his deepest song, but it’s definitely one of his most fun and energetic. It’s a reminder that not all love stories are about forever—some are just about a night, a song, and a great story to tell.
8. “I Don’t Care” (with Justin Bieber) (2019)
“I Don’t Care,” Ed Sheeran’s 2019 collaboration with Justin Bieber, is a breezy, feel-good anthem that celebrates the comfort and joy of being with someone who makes everything better. The lyrics are simple and direct, describing the kind of social anxiety many people feel in overwhelming settings—like crowded parties or awkward gatherings. But instead of sinking into discomfort, the song flips the narrative. “I don’t care when I’m with my baby, yeah,” they sing, turning personal insecurity into a love-fueled shield. The upbeat production, with its tropical vibes and easygoing beat, makes it an instant summer staple. Both Sheeran and Bieber bring a natural chemistry to the track, blending their voices seamlessly in the chorus and adding playful energy to the verses. While the song doesn’t dive deep into emotional territory, it strikes a chord with anyone who’s found refuge in a relationship. Sometimes the world can feel too much—but if you’ve got someone who makes you feel safe and understood, nothing else really matters. “I Don’t Care” captures that feeling perfectly in just under four minutes of catchy, carefree pop.
9. “Bad Habits” (2021)
“Bad Habits” marked a bold new direction for Ed Sheeran when it dropped in 2021. Ditching his acoustic roots for a slick, electro-pop vibe, the song is a high-energy confession about falling back into self-destructive patterns. It’s about those nights where you know you should go home, but don’t. Those choices you regret in the morning, but keep making anyway. The pounding beat, tight production, and glossy synths make it feel like a dancefloor anthem—but the lyrics add a darker layer underneath the sparkle. “My bad habits lead to late nights, ending alone” isn’t just a catchy line—it’s a painfully relatable truth for anyone who’s ever tried to outrun their own flaws. Sheeran’s vocals are sharp and slightly urgent, matching the song’s theme of impulsivity and reflection. The accompanying vampire-themed music video added a fun twist, showcasing his flair for theatricality. “Bad Habits” proved that Sheeran could successfully reinvent himself without losing the emotional core that makes his music resonate. It’s a song that lets you dance through your demons—and maybe even smile while you do it.
10. “Sing” (2014)
“Sing,” released in 2014 as the lead single from x (Multiply), is Ed Sheeran at his most playful and funky. Produced by the legendary Rick Rubin and inspired by artists like Justin Timberlake and Pharrell Williams, the song features a bouncy beat, falsetto vocals, and a swagger that was new for Sheeran at the time. It’s a track that demands to be danced to, with its infectious groove and cheeky lyrics about a spontaneous night out. The chorus—“Sing! / Louder! / Sing it just for us!”—is tailor-made for live shows and rowdy sing-alongs, and it introduced fans to a whole new side of Ed: confident, fun, and ready to party. The acoustic guitar is still there, but now it’s fronting a funk-driven jam with undeniable energy. “Sing” was a commercial success and a clear sign that Sheeran wasn’t afraid to experiment outside of his comfort zone. It’s a celebration of letting go, chasing the moment, and finding joy in the unexpected. With this track, Sheeran didn’t just sing—he shouted that he was here to stay.
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.
