Ed Sheeran, a maestro of modern melody, has left an indelible mark on the music industry. With his unique blend of folk, pop, and acoustic rhythms, he has captivated audiences worldwide, weaving stories that resonate deeply with a diverse fan base. His journey from a humble singer-songwriter to a global superstar showcases his extraordinary talent and dedication to his craft.
In curating the 31 Best Ed Sheeran Songs of All Time, our selection criteria focus on lyrical depth, the allure of the melody, widespread popularity, and critical acclaim. These elements combine to reveal the essence of Sheeran’s artistry – from heartfelt ballads to upbeat anthems. This list aims to encapsulate the varied facets of his musical journey, celebrating the songs that have defined his remarkable career.
1. Shape of You
“Shape of You,” released in 2017, quickly ascended as a global phenomenon. Its catchy melody and rhythm made it irresistible, contributing to its record-breaking streaming numbers. It became Spotify’s most-streamed song and dominated Billboard charts, reflecting its universal appeal. This track, blending pop with tropical house elements, showcases Sheeran’s versatility, cementing his status as a pop powerhouse.
2. Thinking Out Loud
Ed Sheeran’s “Thinking Out Loud,” a quintessential romantic ballad, has become a staple at weddings worldwide. Released in 2014, its heartfelt lyrics and soulful melody resonate deeply with listeners seeking a love anthem. The song’s music video, which features a beautifully choreographed dance, won the Grammy for Best Pop Solo Performance, further highlighting its artistic merit.
3. Perfect
“Perfect” stands out for its lyrical depth and romantic overtones. Released in 2017, it quickly became a wedding anthem, celebrated for its heartfelt portrayal of love. Sheeran’s emotive voice and the song’s acoustic foundation contribute to its timeless appeal. The track has various versions, including duets with Beyoncé and Andrea Bocelli, showcasing its universal adaptability and reach.
4. Castle on the Hill
“Castle on the Hill,” released in 2017, is a reflective track laced with nostalgia and autobiographical elements. It paints a vivid picture of Sheeran’s upbringing in Framlingham, Suffolk. Its success on charts worldwide is a testament to its relatable theme of returning home and the bittersweet nature of growing up.
5. Photograph
Released in 2014, “Photograph” is an emotive ballad that delves into the theme of holding onto memories through pictures. Its emotional depth is highlighted by the personal story behind its lyrics, inspired by Sheeran’s own experiences. The accompanying music video, featuring real childhood footage of Sheeran, adds a layer of intimacy and authenticity to the song.
6. The A Team
“The A Team,” Sheeran’s breakthrough single released in 2011, is renowned for its poignant storytelling. The song, which discusses serious themes like addiction and poverty, received critical acclaim for its lyrical depth and raw presentation. This track not only launched Ed Sheeran’s career but also set the tone for his narrative-driven songwriting style.
7. Galway Girl
“Galway Girl,” released in 2017, is a fusion of pop and Irish folk elements, creating a lively and infectious track. The song narrates a love story set in Galway, Ireland, and features Irish actress Saoirse Ronan in its music video. The blend of storytelling and cultural elements makes it a distinctive and popular track in Sheeran’s discography.
8. Happier
“Happier,” a track from Sheeran’s 2017 album, explores themes of love and heartbreak with emotional depth. The song’s poignant lyrics have resonated with fans, leading to its placement in several popular TV shows. The track’s reception and fan reactions underscore Sheeran’s ability to connect deeply with his audience through relatable themes.
9. Give Me Love
Released in 2012, “Give Me Love” showcases Sheeran’s powerful vocal performance and songwriting prowess. The track is known for its intense emotional delivery and profound lyrics, exploring themes of longing and desperation. Its extended live versions, often featuring improvisational elements, highlight Sheeran’s dynamic performance skills and the song’s emotional impact.
10. Dive
“Dive,” from Sheeran’s 2017 album, stands out with its bluesy vibe and lyrical vulnerability. The song delves into themes of caution and sincerity in love, offering a more soulful and introspective look compared to his other pop-oriented tracks. This song demonstrates Sheeran’s versatility as an artist, capable of blending different genres and emotions.
11. “Supermarket Flowers”
“Supermarket Flowers” is a deeply personal song for Ed Sheeran, written in memory of his grandmother. Released in 2017, it’s a poignant tribute that resonates with listeners for its emotional depth and simplicity. The song’s creation story, where Sheeran translates his personal loss into music, adds a layer of authenticity, making it a standout track in his discography.
12. “Lego House”
“Lego House,” released in 2011, is known for its catchy melody and relatable lyrics about love and rebuilding. The song’s popularity was enhanced by its music video, starring actor Rupert Grint, known for his role in the Harry Potter series. The video’s concept and Grint’s involvement received positive reception, further cementing the song’s success.
13. “I See Fire”
Written and recorded for the 2013 film “The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug,” “I See Fire” is a hauntingly beautiful track that showcases Sheeran’s acoustic style. Its connection to the film and the use of folk elements have garnered positive reactions from both fans of the movie and Sheeran’s music, highlighting his versatility as an artist.
14. “Bloodstream”
The 2015 track “Bloodstream” marks Sheeran’s collaboration with the electronic music quartet Rudimental. Known for its high energy and emotive lyrics, the song has become a highlight in live performances, where its intensity and dynamic arrangement shine. The fusion of Sheeran’s heartfelt songwriting with Rudimental’s electronic beats created a unique sound in his repertoire.
15. “Don’t”
“Don’t,” released in 2014, stands out for its catchy rhythm and the controversy surrounding its lyrics, which are rumored to be about a real-life romantic experience. Its place in Sheeran’s discography is significant, showcasing a blend of pop and R&B influences and a more assertive storytelling style.
16. “Sing”
A collaboration with Pharrell Williams, “Sing” (2014) brought an upbeat, funky tempo to Sheeran’s music. The song, showcasing a departure from his usual acoustic style, achieved significant chart success and was noted for its catchy chorus and rhythm, further demonstrating Sheeran’s ability to diversify his musical style.
17. “Beautiful People” featuring Khalid
Released in 2019, “Beautiful People” features American singer Khalid. The song addresses the theme of staying true to oneself amidst the allure of a superficial lifestyle. Its social commentary, combined with the collaboration’s synergy, resonated with audiences, making it a thought-provoking and popular track.
18. “I Don’t Care” with Justin Bieber
In 2019, Sheeran teamed up with Justin Bieber for “I Don’t Care.” This collaboration resulted in a catchy pop anthem that discusses themes of comfort and belonging. The song’s global chart success and its infectious chorus underpin its widespread appeal and the effective partnership between the two artists.
19. “Kiss Me”
“Kiss Me,” a romantic ballad from Sheeran’s 2011 album, is celebrated for its heartfelt lyrics and tender melody. It has become a fan favorite, often featuring in romantic playlists. The song’s intimate and raw live performances add a special dimension, showcasing Sheeran’s ability to connect with his audience on a deeper level.
20. “Tenerife Sea”
Released in 2014, “Tenerife Sea” is a love song filled with romantic imagery and soft, melodic tunes. Its live performances are particularly noteworthy, where Sheeran’s heartfelt delivery and the song’s lyrical beauty captivate audiences. The song has garnered a significant fan following, with many interpreting its lyrics as a tribute to a special romantic connection.
21. “Eraser”
“Eraser,” a track from Sheeran’s 2017 album, introduces rap elements and candid lyrical honesty, discussing fame and personal challenges. The song’s live version, often featuring extended freestyle rap, showcases Sheeran’s versatility and his ability to blend different genres, providing a raw and introspective look at his life.
22. “South of the Border” featuring Camila Cabello and Cardi B
In “South of the Border” (2019), Sheeran collaborates with Camila Cabello and Cardi B, blending pop with Latin influences. The song’s catchy rhythm, coupled with the diverse styles of the artists, creates a vibrant track. Its music video, featuring a mix of adventure and romance, complements the song’s playful and eclectic nature.
23. “Afterglow”
Released unexpectedly in 2020, “Afterglow” is a warm, acoustic track that showcases Sheeran’s signature style. The song, a standalone release, was a pleasant surprise for fans, offering a sense of comfort and hope. Its simplicity and raw acoustic sound have been well-received, with fans appreciating the return to Sheeran’s roots.
24. “Cross Me” featuring Chance the Rapper and PnB Rock
“Cross Me,” featuring Chance the Rapper and PnB Rock, released in 2019, is a dynamic track blending pop with hip-hop elements. The song’s theme of loyalty and its energetic beat, along with the collaborative synergy, contributed to its chart success, showcasing Sheeran’s ability to create hits across different music genres.
25. “Antisocial” with Travis Scott
“Antisocial,” a collaboration with Travis Scott, marked a notable shift in Ed Sheeran’s musical style. Released in 2019, it blends pop with hip-hop elements, showcasing Sheeran’s versatility. The song is distinguished by its catchy beat and unique sound. Its music video is particularly creative, featuring a series of eclectic and surreal scenes, further enhancing the track’s appeal.
26. “Nothing on You” featuring Paulo Londra and Dave
In “Nothing on You,” Sheeran teams up with Argentine rapper Paulo Londra and British rapper Dave, adding an international flair to his 2019 album. The song features a unique beat, blending elements of Latin music with British rap, creating a distinctive sound. The lyrical style, combining English and Spanish, adds to the song’s global appeal.
27. “Bad Habits”
Released in 2021, “Bad Habits” marks a significant shift in Sheeran’s musical style, venturing into the electro-pop genre. The song is known for its catchy hook and pulsating rhythm. Accompanied by a vampire-themed music video, it adds a visually striking and thematic layer to the track, showcasing Sheeran’s creative evolution.
28. “Bibia Be Ye Ye”
“Bibia Be Ye Ye,” a track from Sheeran’s 2017 album, is celebrated for its cultural richness. Recorded in Ghana, it incorporates African musical elements, exhibiting an upbeat rhythm and joyful melody. The music video, filmed in Ghana, captures the vibrant local culture and scenery, adding authenticity and depth to the song’s narrative.
29. “End Game” featuring Taylor Swift and Future
In “End Game,” Sheeran collaborates with Taylor Swift and Future, creating a high-profile ensemble. Released in 2017, the song blends pop, rap, and R&B, presenting a diverse musical experience. Its narrative explores the complexities of relationships. The music video, featuring glamorous international locations, complements the song’s energetic and global vibe.
30. “Take Me Back to London” featuring Stormzy
“Take Me Back to London,” a collaboration with British rapper Stormzy released in 2019, is a fusion of hip-hop and pop. The song reflects on fame and Sheeran’s roots in London. The synergy between Sheeran and Stormzy, along with the grime-influenced beat, highlights the blend of different musical genres, resonating with a broad audience.
31. “You Need Me, I Don’t Need You”
“You Need Me, I Don’t Need You,” from Sheeran’s 2011 album, is known for its assertive lyrics and showcases his rap skills. The song played a crucial role in Sheeran’s early career, emphasizing his versatility and lyrical prowess. Its independent and defiant tone resonates with the theme of self-reliance, making it a standout track in his early work.