Ed Sheeran has established himself as one of the most influential singer-songwriters of his generation, creating an extraordinary catalog of hits that have touched millions of listeners worldwide. From his humble beginnings performing in small venues to becoming a global superstar with multiple Grammy wins and record-breaking albums, Sheeran’s musical journey represents the perfect blend of heartfelt storytelling, acoustic mastery, and pop sensibility. His ability to craft songs that resonate with diverse audiences has made him one of the best-selling music artists of all time, with over 200 million records sold globally.
Throughout his career spanning more than a decade, Ed Sheeran has consistently delivered chart-topping hits that showcase his versatility as both a songwriter and performer. Whether exploring themes of love, loss, personal growth, or social commentary, his music transcends genre boundaries and connects with listeners on a deeply emotional level. As we celebrate his latest release “Play” in 2025, it’s the perfect time to explore the 20 greatest songs that define his remarkable legacy.
From breakthrough ballads to dance-floor anthems, each track on this list represents a significant moment in Sheeran’s evolution as an artist. These songs not only dominated charts worldwide but also became the soundtrack to countless personal moments for fans across the globe. Whether you’re discovering his music for the first time or revisiting old favorites, this comprehensive list showcases why Ed Sheeran remains one of the most beloved artists in contemporary music.
Shape of You
Released as the lead single from his album “÷” (Divide) in January 2017, “Shape of You” became one of Ed Sheeran’s most commercially successful tracks and a defining moment in his career. The song marked a departure from his traditional acoustic style, incorporating dancehall and tropical house elements that created an irresistible summer anthem. Written during a songwriting session intended for Rihanna, Sheeran decided to keep the track for himself, recognizing its potential to showcase his versatility as an artist.
The track’s infectious rhythm and memorable hooks propelled it to the top of charts in over 30 countries, including a record-breaking 12-week stay at number one on the Billboard Hot 100. “Shape of You” became the first song ever to achieve over 2 billion streams on Spotify, cementing its status as a cultural phenomenon. The song’s universal appeal and crossover success demonstrated Sheeran’s ability to evolve his sound while maintaining his signature storytelling approach.
Perfect
“Perfect” stands as perhaps Ed Sheeran’s most romantic composition, a tender ballad that has become synonymous with weddings and declarations of love worldwide. Released in March 2017 as part of his “÷” album, the song was written about his relationship with his now-wife Cherry Seaborn, capturing the intimate moments that define true partnership. The track’s simple yet powerful arrangement allows Sheeran’s heartfelt vocals and poetic lyrics to take center stage, creating an emotional connection that resonates with listeners of all ages.
The song became the Christmas number one in the UK for 2017, marking a significant achievement in Sheeran’s career. The ballad’s enduring popularity has made it a modern classic, with countless covers and performances cementing its place in the canon of great love songs. Its success across multiple markets and demographics showcases Sheeran’s ability to craft universally appealing music that transcends cultural boundaries.
Thinking Out Loud
“Thinking Out Loud” became the first song ever to spend a year inside the UK top 40, establishing itself as one of Ed Sheeran’s most enduring and beloved compositions. Written with Amy Wadge in 2014, the song explores the concept of lasting love that transcends physical beauty and youthful passion, resonating with audiences seeking deeper emotional connections. The track’s gentle acoustic arrangement and Sheeran’s soulful delivery create an intimate atmosphere that has made it a popular choice for weddings and romantic occasions.
The song’s commercial success was matched by critical acclaim, earning Sheeran a Grammy Award for Song of the Year and solidifying his reputation as a masterful songwriter. Ed referred to it as a perfect “walking down the aisle song”, acknowledging its role in countless wedding ceremonies worldwide. The track’s ability to capture the essence of enduring love while maintaining broad commercial appeal demonstrates Sheeran’s skill in balancing artistic integrity with mainstream accessibility.
The A Team
“The A Team” was Ed Sheeran’s first proper single in 2011, and was the first many people had found his music, marking the beginning of his journey to international stardom. The song tells the heartbreaking story of a young woman struggling with addiction and homelessness, inspired by Sheeran’s experiences volunteering at a homeless shelter. Its unflinching portrayal of social issues combined with beautiful melodies created a powerful piece of storytelling that showcased Sheeran’s ability to address serious subjects with sensitivity and compassion.
The track’s success was both commercial and critical, earning Sheeran his first Grammy nomination for Song of the Year in 2013. The skill in the lyricism is undeniable, with examples of fantastic construction in abundance, including memorable lines that paint vivid pictures of the protagonist’s struggles. The song’s impact extended beyond the charts, raising awareness about homelessness and addiction while establishing Sheeran as an artist capable of using his platform for social commentary.
Castle on the Hill
Released alongside “Shape of You” in January 2017, “Castle on the Hill” represents Ed Sheeran’s nostalgic reflection on his childhood and the journey that led him to success. The song paints a vivid picture of growing up in Framlingham, Suffolk, referencing specific locations and experiences that shaped his early years. Its anthemic quality and emotional depth provide a perfect counterbalance to the dance-oriented “Shape of You,” showcasing the range of styles Sheeran could master within a single album.
The track’s celebration of small-town life and the passage of time resonated with listeners who identified with its themes of growing up and moving away from home. The song’s success demonstrated that audiences were equally drawn to Sheeran’s more personal, introspective material as they were to his pop anthems. Its combination of rock influences with folk storytelling created a unique sound that highlighted Sheeran’s ability to experiment with different musical styles while maintaining his authentic voice.
Galway Girl
“Galway Girl” is a standout track from his third studio album, Divide, released on March 17, 2017, representing a collaboration between Sheeran and the Irish folk band Beoga. The song blends Sheeran’s pop sensibilities with traditional Irish influences, creating a vibrant celebration of Irish culture and music. Its infectious energy and cultural authenticity made it particularly popular in Ireland and among audiences with Irish heritage worldwide.
With over 1.5 billion streams on Spotify, “Galway Girl” is one of the most popular songs from Divide, ranking as the album’s third most-streamed track. The song’s success demonstrated Sheeran’s ability to honor and incorporate different musical traditions while creating something entirely new. Its folk-pop fusion approach influenced many subsequent artists and showed how traditional music could be successfully modernized for contemporary audiences.
Photograph
“Photograph” stands as one of Ed Sheeran’s most emotionally resonant ballads, exploring themes of love, memory, and the pain of separation. Released in 2015 as part of his “×” (Multiply) album, the song showcases Sheeran’s ability to craft deeply personal narratives that speak to universal experiences. The track’s gentle acoustic arrangement and vulnerable vocal delivery create an intimate listening experience that has made it a favorite among fans seeking emotional connection through music.
The song’s success both commercially and critically established it as one of Sheeran’s signature tracks, with its music video featuring personal footage that added another layer of authenticity to the emotional narrative. Its exploration of how photographs can preserve memories and emotions resonated with audiences in an increasingly digital age. The track’s enduring popularity on streaming platforms and its frequent use in media demonstrates its lasting impact on popular culture.
Happier
“Happier” represents Ed Sheeran’s mature approach to exploring the complexities of love and heartbreak, examining the difficult realization that sometimes letting go is the most loving act. According to Ed, this song is about looking back at an early relationship and, despite at first being angry about the breakup, later coming to realise that his first love was happier with someone else. The song’s emotional sophistication and honest self-reflection showcase Sheeran’s growth as both a songwriter and a person.
The track’s bittersweet melody perfectly complements its lyrical content, creating a listening experience that acknowledges the pain of loss while celebrating the happiness of a former partner. Ed said: “Seeing them together, we never looked like that, we were never that couple, we were never that happy. So it was having a kind of epiphany moment”. This level of emotional maturity and selflessness in songwriting demonstrates why Sheeran’s music continues to resonate with audiences seeking authentic expressions of human experience.
I Don’t Care (feat. Justin Bieber)
“I Don’t Care” was released in 2019 as the lead single through Asylum, Atlantic Records, and Def Jam Recordings, quickly becoming a fan favourite. The collaboration between Ed Sheeran and Justin Bieber brought together two of pop music’s biggest stars, creating a track that combined Sheeran’s songwriting prowess with Bieber’s vocal charisma. The song’s theme of finding comfort in love despite social anxiety and public pressure resonated with both artists’ experiences of fame and personal relationships.
With its upbeat rhythm, catchy lyrics, and the combined star power of Sheeran and Bieber, “I Don’t Care” dominated charts worldwide and solidified its place as one of Ed’s most memorable hits. The track demonstrated how strategic collaborations could enhance both artists’ strengths while creating something greater than the sum of its parts. Its success across multiple demographics showed how cross-generational musical partnerships could create lasting impact in the streaming era.
Bad Habits
“Bad Habits” marked Ed Sheeran’s return to dance-oriented pop music, showcasing a more experimental side of his artistry while maintaining his signature melodic sensibilities. Released in 2021 as the lead single from his album “=” (Equals), the song explores themes of temptation, nightlife, and the struggle to maintain healthy relationships while dealing with personal demons. Its electronic production and infectious energy created a sound that was both contemporary and timeless.
The track’s success demonstrated Sheeran’s ability to adapt to changing musical trends while preserving his unique identity as an artist. Its blend of introspective lyrics with danceable production created a compelling contrast that appealed to both radio programmers and serious music listeners. The song’s commercial performance and streaming numbers confirmed that audiences were ready for Sheeran’s continued evolution as a pop artist.
Supermarket Flowers
“Supermarket Flowers” stands as one of Ed Sheeran’s most emotionally powerful compositions, written as a tribute to his late grandmother and exploring the raw emotions surrounding loss and grief. This infamous tearjerker is a stellar depiction of grief, with Sheeran focusing on the admin surrounding a loss – the clearing out of the hospital room, the deciding what to keep and what to throw away – before addressing his grandmother directly in the chorus. The song’s honest portrayal of mourning and the practical aspects of dealing with death created a deeply relatable piece for anyone who has experienced loss.
His vocals are incredibly emotive but still clear and melodic, and the track is perfectly produced, building up just enough before pulling back for Sheeran’s final lines. The song’s restraint and emotional intelligence demonstrate Sheeran’s maturity as both a songwriter and a human being. Its ability to find beauty and meaning in grief while avoiding sentimentality showcases why Sheeran’s music continues to provide comfort and understanding to listeners facing their own challenges.
Azizam
“Azizam” represents Ed Sheeran’s latest exploration into global musical influences, marking his return to “big pop” with his 2025 album “Play.” The title ‘Azizam’ means ‘my dear’, ‘darling’ or ‘my love’ in Persian, and was inspired by Ed’s collaboration with music producer Ilya Salmanzadeh. The song showcases Sheeran’s willingness to embrace different cultural sounds while maintaining his distinctive songwriting approach, creating a bridge between Western pop and Persian musical traditions.
Ed opened up about how he started working on ‘Azizam’: “I wrote Azizam after [Ilya] suggested trying out making music inspired by his Persian heritage and culture… I loved how a lot of rhythms, scales, melodies and instruments were different but similar to the Irish trad music I had grown up with”. This cultural fusion approach demonstrates Sheeran’s continued growth as an artist willing to step outside his comfort zone. The song’s success as the lead single from “Play” confirms that audiences appreciate his adventurous approach to music-making while maintaining his core appeal.
Lego House
“Lego House” emerged as one of the standout tracks from Ed Sheeran’s debut album “+”, showcasing his ability to use metaphor and imagery to explore themes of love and vulnerability. The song’s central metaphor of building and rebuilding relationships like Lego structures resonated with listeners who understood the fragile nature of human connections. Its gentle melody and thoughtful lyrics established Sheeran’s reputation for creating accessible yet sophisticated pop music.
The track’s success helped establish Sheeran’s presence in multiple international markets, with the song reaching the top five in Australia, New Zealand, and the UK. Its enduring popularity demonstrates how well-crafted metaphors can make abstract emotional concepts tangible and relatable. The song’s placement in various media and its continued streaming success show how effective storytelling in music can create lasting cultural impact.
Bloodstream (feat. Rudimental)
“Bloodstream” represents one of Ed Sheeran’s most successful collaborations, bringing together his songwriting skills with Rudimental’s electronic production expertise. Released as part of his “×” (Multiply) album, the song explores themes of escape and altered consciousness while maintaining Sheeran’s signature emotional depth. The fusion of acoustic and electronic elements created a sound that was both innovative and commercially viable.
The collaboration demonstrated Sheeran’s ability to work effectively with artists from different musical backgrounds while maintaining his artistic identity. The song’s success in both pop and electronic music charts showed how genre-blending could create opportunities for crossover appeal. Its production quality and emotional resonance established a template for future collaborations that would enhance rather than overshadow the core songwriting.
Old Phone
“Old Phone” was released as Play’s second single on Thursday, May 1, inspired by Ed going through an old phone of his while looking for evidence during the copyright court case he fought and won a few years ago. The song taps into nostalgia and the way technology preserves our personal histories, exploring how old photos and messages can transport us back to different periods of our lives. Its introspective nature and relatable theme resonated with audiences who have experienced similar moments of digital archaeology.
He teased the nostalgic song by starting another Instagram account called teddysoldphone filled with photos, demonstrating his creative approach to marketing and fan engagement. The song’s success as part of the “Play” era shows how personal experiences can be transformed into universal themes that connect with diverse audiences. Its blend of modern production with timeless emotional themes exemplifies Sheeran’s continued relevance in contemporary music.
Small Bump
“Small Bump” stands as one of Ed Sheeran’s most emotionally challenging and beautifully crafted songs, dealing with the heartbreaking subject of pregnancy loss with sensitivity and grace. Released in 2012 as part of his debut album “+”, the song showcases Sheeran’s ability to address difficult topics while creating music that provides comfort rather than despair. The track’s gentle melody and careful lyrics created a safe space for listeners to process their own experiences with loss.
The song’s impact extended beyond commercial success, providing solace to countless individuals and families who had experienced similar losses. Ed said of the song: “It was one of those songs where you get very inspired by a situation and it falls out of you in 20 minutes. It was a very easy song to write”. This natural flow in the songwriting process often produces the most authentic and emotionally resonant music, explaining why “Small Bump” continues to provide comfort and understanding to those who need it most.
Don’t
“Don’t” showcases Ed Sheeran’s versatility as a songwriter, combining R&B influences with his acoustic foundation to create a track that addresses infidelity and betrayal with both anger and vulnerability. Released in 2014 as part of his “×” (Multiply) album, the song demonstrated Sheeran’s ability to tackle mature themes while maintaining his distinctive musical voice. Its production, which incorporated elements of contemporary R&B and hip-hop, showed his willingness to experiment with different sounds.
The track’s success across multiple charts confirmed that audiences were ready to accept Sheeran’s more experimental side, paving the way for future sonic explorations. Its frank discussion of relationship problems and emotional pain resonated with listeners who appreciated honest portrayals of romantic difficulties. The song’s lasting popularity on streaming platforms demonstrates how authentic emotional expression can transcend genre boundaries and musical trends.
Sing
“Sing” marked a significant departure from Ed Sheeran’s acoustic origins, embracing funk and R&B influences to create an uptempo celebration of music and performance. Produced by Pharrell Williams, the track brought together two distinctive artistic voices to create something entirely new while honoring both artists’ strengths. Released as the lead single from “×” (Multiply) in 2014, the song demonstrated Sheeran’s versatility and willingness to push creative boundaries.
The collaboration with Williams introduced Sheeran to new audiences while showcasing his ability to adapt his songwriting style to different production approaches. The song’s infectious energy and celebratory theme made it a popular choice for live performances and media placements. Its success helped establish Sheeran’s reputation as an artist capable of working effectively with diverse collaborators while maintaining his unique identity and appeal.
Nina
“Nina” is a lyric-heavy track from x where Sheeran reflects back on a relationship with another young artist, showcasing his ability to transform personal experiences into universally relatable music. The song’s detailed storytelling and emotional honesty create a compelling narrative about young love, artistic ambition, and the difficult decisions that sometimes end relationships. Its blend of vulnerability and maturity demonstrated Sheeran’s growth as both a songwriter and a person.
In ‘Nina’, he sings directly to his ex-girlfriend, fondly recalling the time they spent together but explaining why their break-up was inevitable. “Mixing business and feelings will only lead to complications,” he tells her sadly. This level of emotional intelligence and self-awareness in songwriting shows why Sheeran’s music continues to resonate with audiences seeking authentic expressions of human experience. The song’s ability to present both parties as three-dimensional human beings demonstrates sophisticated storytelling skills that elevate it beyond typical breakup songs.
Grade 8
“Grade 8” represents Ed Sheeran’s ability to capture the intensity and innocence of young love, exploring the way childhood relationships can feel all-consuming and permanent despite their temporary nature. The song’s nostalgic tone and specific details create a vivid portrait of adolescent romance that resonates with listeners regardless of their age. Its gentle melody and heartfelt lyrics showcase Sheeran’s talent for finding universal themes in personal experiences.
The track’s success among younger audiences demonstrated Sheeran’s ability to connect with multiple generations, speaking to both those currently experiencing young love and those remembering their own formative relationships. Its honest portrayal of the confusion and intensity of teenage emotions created a lasting connection with fans who appreciated authentic representations of growing up. The song’s enduring popularity shows how well-crafted nostalgia can create timeless music that speaks to fundamental human experiences.
From this comprehensive exploration of Ed Sheeran’s greatest hits, it becomes clear why he has achieved such remarkable success and lasting influence in popular music. These 20 songs represent more than just commercial achievements; they showcase an artist’s evolution from a young singer-songwriter to a global phenomenon who consistently delivers authentic, emotionally resonant music. Whether you’re interested in discovering more music like these hits or enhancing your listening experience with quality audio equipment, you can explore our extensive collection of songs, compare the latest earbuds, or find the perfect headphones to fully appreciate the nuances in Sheeran’s carefully crafted compositions.
Each track on this list demonstrates Sheeran’s remarkable ability to balance commercial appeal with artistic integrity, creating music that works equally well in stadiums, on radio, and in intimate personal moments. His willingness to explore different musical styles, collaborate with diverse artists, and address both joyful and challenging subjects has created a catalog that speaks to the full spectrum of human experience. As he continues to evolve with releases like “Play” in 2025, these foundational tracks serve as stepping stones that led to his current artistic achievements.
The lasting impact of these songs extends beyond their initial chart success, as they continue to find new audiences through streaming platforms, social media, and live performances. Their universal themes, memorable melodies, and authentic emotional expression ensure that Ed Sheeran’s greatest hits will continue to resonate with music lovers for generations to come, cementing his place among the most important singer-songwriters of the 21st century.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ed Sheeran’s most successful song commercially?
“Shape of You” holds the distinction as Ed Sheeran’s most commercially successful song, achieving over 2 billion streams on Spotify and topping charts in more than 30 countries. The track spent 12 weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and became a global phenomenon that showcased Sheeran’s ability to create crossover hits that appeal to diverse audiences worldwide.
Which Ed Sheeran songs are best for weddings?
“Perfect,” “Thinking Out Loud,” and “Photograph” are considered the top Ed Sheeran songs for weddings due to their romantic themes and beautiful melodies. “Thinking Out Loud” has been particularly popular as a first dance song, with Ed himself referring to it as a perfect “walking down the aisle song.” These tracks combine emotional depth with accessible melodies that make them ideal for celebrating love and commitment.
What was Ed Sheeran’s breakthrough song?
“The A Team” served as Ed Sheeran’s breakthrough song, released in 2011 as his first major label single and introducing many listeners to his music for the first time. The track earned him his first Grammy nomination and established his reputation as a skilled storyteller capable of addressing serious social issues through beautiful, accessible music.
What are Ed Sheeran’s newest songs in 2025?
Ed Sheeran’s newest releases in 2025 come from his eighth studio album “Play,” which includes singles like “Azizam,” “Old Phone,” “Sapphire,” and “A Little More.” These tracks represent his return to “big pop” music while incorporating global influences, particularly Persian and Indian musical elements that demonstrate his continued artistic evolution.
How many albums has Ed Sheeran released?
As of 2025, Ed Sheeran has released eight studio albums, including his latest “Play” (2025), along with two compilation albums and numerous extended plays. His discography spans from his debut “+” (2011) through his mathematical series (×, ÷, =, −) and into his new symbol-based series beginning with “Play,” showcasing more than a decade of consistent artistic output.
What makes Ed Sheeran’s songwriting unique?
Ed Sheeran’s songwriting stands out for its combination of deeply personal storytelling, accessible melodies, and his ability to address both joyful and challenging subjects with equal authenticity. His use of specific details and metaphors, like in “Lego House” and “Small Bump,” creates vivid imagery that helps listeners connect emotionally with universal themes, while his willingness to experiment with different musical styles keeps his work fresh and relevant.