Ed Sheeran, the musical maestro whose heartfelt lyrics and catchy melodies have captured the hearts of millions, has carved a unique niche in the world of pop music. From his humble beginnings as a street performer to global superstardom, Sheeran’s journey is nothing short of inspirational. With a blend of folk, pop, and R&B influences, his songs resonate with a diverse audience, transcending age and cultural barriers.
As we delve into the top 10 most popular Ed Sheeran songs of all time, get ready to relive the unforgettable moments that these tracks have provided. Whether it’s the romantic serenade of “Perfect,” the infectious energy of “Shape of You,” or the nostalgic vibes of “Castle on the Hill,” each song tells a story that connects deeply with listeners.
Join us as we explore the hits that not only showcase Sheeran’s remarkable songwriting talent but also highlight his evolution as an artist. From chart-toppers to fan favorites, this list celebrates the magic of Ed Sheeran’s music, inviting you to sing along and reminisce about the melodies that have become the soundtrack of our lives. Get ready to discover which songs made the cut!
1. Shape of You (2017)
“Shape of You” is arguably one of Ed Sheeran’s most recognizable hits and a defining track of modern pop. Released in January 2017, it marked a shift in Sheeran’s sound—infusing tropical house, dancehall rhythms, and a sleek pop edge. From the very first marimba-style notes, the song grabs your attention and never lets go. Lyrically, it centers around a spontaneous bar encounter that evolves into a passionate romance, but what makes it special is how Ed captures the chemistry and fun of new love through rhythmic wordplay and sharp storytelling. “Shape of You” isn’t just about physical attraction; it subtly reflects how love can emerge in the most unexpected places. Its minimalistic beat, driven by percussion loops and acoustic flourishes, makes it incredibly danceable without being overproduced. The track became a global smash, topping charts in multiple countries and becoming one of the most-streamed songs of all time. It showcased Ed’s versatility, blending his singer-songwriter roots with contemporary pop production. Whether played at weddings, clubs, or on late-night drives, “Shape of You” remains an irresistible anthem of flirtation and connection. It’s fun, addictive, and a perfect example of Ed’s ability to evolve while keeping his storytelling intact.
2. Thinking Out Loud (2014)
“Thinking Out Loud” is a timeless ballad that feels like it was written to walk lovers down the aisle. Released in June 2014, the song is one of Ed Sheeran’s most enduring tracks, known for its soul-inspired melody and deeply romantic lyrics. With a smooth blend of acoustic guitar and gentle percussion, Ed sets the stage for a love story that ages gracefully—“And darling I will be loving you ’til we’re 70.” It’s not just the words that make it so affecting, but the sincerity in Ed’s delivery. His voice feels intimate and reassuring, like a quiet conversation between two people who’ve already chosen each other. The song is rooted in everyday love—the kind that grows over time, survives the ups and downs, and becomes more beautiful with age. It resonated strongly with fans and quickly became a wedding favorite around the world. The music video, which features Ed ballroom dancing, added another layer of charm and vulnerability. “Thinking Out Loud” is proof that Sheeran doesn’t need elaborate production to make a hit—just heartfelt lyrics, a soulful melody, and a voice that knows how to tell the truth in song.
3. Perfect (2017)
“Perfect” is Ed Sheeran at his most romantic and sentimental. Released in September 2017, this heartfelt ballad captures the magic of finding your person and holding onto them for life. The lyrics read like a love letter, inspired in part by Sheeran’s real-life relationship, making it feel honest and incredibly personal. From the opening line—“I found a love for me”—to the sweeping chorus, the song builds a picture of a relationship that’s gentle, secure, and deeply affectionate. The acoustic guitar sets a soft, nostalgic tone that’s later elevated by lush orchestral strings, giving the track a cinematic quality. “Perfect” has become a go-to wedding song, not just because of its romantic message, but because it captures love at its most peaceful and beautiful. There are also several alternate versions—including a duet with Beyoncé and an orchestral version—that allowed the song to reach even broader audiences. It’s not flashy or overproduced; instead, it feels classic and timeless, like a modern-day lullaby for lovers. “Perfect” is a reminder that sometimes the simplest expressions of love can be the most powerful, and Sheeran delivers that sentiment with graceful ease.
4. Castle on the Hill (2017)
“Castle on the Hill” is Ed Sheeran’s nostalgic tribute to his roots, released in January 2017 alongside “Shape of You.” While the latter explored contemporary love and rhythm, “Castle on the Hill” leaned into storytelling and memory. Inspired by his upbringing in Framlingham, Suffolk, the song is driven by a powerful guitar riff and anthemic chorus that feels like a road trip through Sheeran’s teenage years. From crashing cars and smoking hand-rolled cigarettes to missing old friends, the lyrics are vivid and personal. Yet, they strike a universal chord—we’ve all longed for simpler times or revisited places that shaped us. It’s a celebration of youth and a reflection on how time changes everything. The “castle on the hill” is both a literal landmark and a metaphor for the past he’s always looking back toward. The driving beat and emotional energy make it a great stadium anthem, and it resonates especially with those navigating adulthood and longing for home. With “Castle on the Hill,” Sheeran proves once again that his strength lies not just in writing love songs, but in crafting emotional, honest reflections that make listeners feel seen and understood.
5. Photograph (2015)
“Photograph” is a moving ballad that captures the delicate balance between distance, love, and memory. Released in May 2015 as part of Sheeran’s *x* album, the song tells the story of a relationship preserved through photographs—physical reminders of shared moments and enduring connection. The arrangement is simple and heartfelt: a soft acoustic guitar forms the foundation, allowing the rawness of Ed’s voice to shine. The lyrics are touching in their simplicity—“We keep this love in a photograph / We made these memories for ourselves”—but the emotions they stir are powerful. The song speaks to anyone who’s ever had to be apart from someone they love, offering comfort in the idea that love can still be felt even when miles away. It’s one of those tracks that builds gradually, drawing the listener deeper into its emotional core with each verse. The music video, featuring real footage from Ed’s childhood, adds a poignant touch that makes it even more personal. “Photograph” is a quiet anthem for long-distance lovers and sentimental souls, and it stands as a testament to Ed Sheeran’s gift for writing songs that feel like home.
6. The A Team (2011)
Released in 2011, “The A Team” was Ed Sheeran’s poignant introduction to the world, marking a raw, powerful entry into mainstream music. Stripped-down yet emotionally resonant, this haunting ballad tackles the grim realities of addiction and survival without ever sounding exploitative. Set over gentle acoustic guitar and soft percussion, the song spins a heartbreaking narrative: a young woman caught in a cycle of substance abuse, emotional isolation, and hardship. Ed’s voice is tender and empathetic, never condescending, conveying both sorrow and subtle hope. The lyrics—painfully honest lines like “And in her tear‑stained face she pulls the blinds/And makes you think that she’s alright”—reach deep into human vulnerability. Rather than gloss over the subject matter, the song invites listeners to feel empathy and understanding. “The A Team” earned Ed critical acclaim and a Grammy nomination, securing his reputation as a songwriter unafraid to address difficult topics with sensitivity and depth. Despite its dark subject, the melody carries luminosity, a fragile beauty that lingers long after the song ends. It stands as a reminder of music’s ability to humanize struggle and uplift through compassion and storytelling.
7. Galway Girl (2017)
“Galway Girl,” released in 2017 on the *÷* (Divide) album, is the ultimate crossover between folk and pop. It pulses with energy and local color, telling the story of a love affair with an Irish girl met in a bar in Galway. The track blends fiddle, acoustic guitar, and upbeat rhythms with Ed’s charismatic vocals, capturing the excitement of cultural collision—falling in love with someone while dancing to traditional Irish music. Lyrically, it’s full of vivid details: “She played the fiddle in an Irish band / But she fell in love with an English man.” The result is a song that feels both universal and specific, packed with romantic spontaneity and charm. Think of it as a modern folk song you’d hear in a pub one minute and on the radio the next. Its infectious melody and upbeat tempo made it a concert staple and dance‑floor favorite. “Galway Girl” demonstrates Ed’s knack for blending genres effortlessly while retaining lyrical sincerity. It’s fun, energetic, and rooted in storytelling, making it one of his most beloved and widely adored tracks.
8. I See Fire (2013)
Released in 2013 as part of *The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug* soundtrack, “I See Fire” is an atmospheric and emotional departure from Ed Sheeran’s typical pop ballads. Built around steady acoustic guitar and soft harmonies, the song captures the tension of impending danger and the resolve of battle. Written from inside-the-film perspective, it reflects on loyalty, loss, and resistance—“I see fire inside the mountain / I see fire burning the trees.” Ed’s voice is both plaintive and powerful, weaving longing and urgency into each line. The arrangement remains understated, allowing the raw emotion of the lyrics and melody to take precedence. Though tied to the fantasy world of Middle-earth, the song resonates with anyone confronting internal or external trials. It peaked on global charts and gained praise for its storytelling strength and cinematic feel. “I See Fire” showcases Ed’s ability to adapt his songwriting to thematic storytelling, delivering a song that’s heartfelt, expansive, and deeply human, even when set in a fictional realm.
9. Bad Habits (2021)
“Bad Habits” marked a bold sonic shift for Ed Sheeran, released in June 2021 as the lead single from his upcoming album. Leaning heavily into pop and electronic production, it’s a pulsating, late-night anthem about temptation and self-sabotage. With its driving dance beat and synth-heavy sound, the song finds Ed reflecting on his own indulgences—“My bad habits lead to late nights, endin’ alone.” Unlike his familiar acoustic style, this track showcases stomping percussion, catchy vocal hooks, and nightclub energy. Lyrically, it’s introspective yet playful, examining how small decisions can spiral into momentary thrills and lingering regrets. The production is glossy and catchy, positioning Ed firmly in pop territory without losing lyrical honesty. The accompanying music video, featuring a vampire‑like party scene, amplified its edgy aesthetic. “Bad Habits” topped charts worldwide and demonstrated Ed’s willingness to reinvent his style, moving confidently into dance-pop while preserving his storytelling roots. It serves as a reminder that growth doesn’t mean neglecting emotional depth—it can mean amplifying it in a new sonic world.
10. Sing (2014)
Released in April 2014, “Sing” is a playful, energetic track that injected funk and groove into Ed Sheeran’s repertoire. Produced by Pharrell Williams, the song features a bouncy rhythm, airy falsetto vocals, and a swaggering beat that feels perfect for late-night fun. The lyrics tell a story of flirtation and freedom—dancing, romance, and playful tension at a club. With lines like “Bring it back like 909,” Ed nods to party culture with style. The production’s minimalist funk elements—sparse guitar licks, spaced-out percussion, and contagious bounce—create an atmosphere that’s more soulful than typical pop. Ed’s voice adapts effortlessly, shifting between smooth charm and cheeky assurance. “Sing” broadened his musical palette, inviting fans to see him as more than an acoustic troubadour. It became a hit across radio and dance venues, proving he could own a club-ready track just as convincingly as a heartfelt ballad. The song remains a jubilant moment in his catalog, highlighting his versatility and fun-loving charisma.
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.
