Ed Sheeran returns to number one as the UK's most played artist for the eighth time

Ed Sheeran has returned to the summit of the UK's most played artist chart, securing the honour for the eighth time in eleven years.

The achievement was confirmed through data published by music licensing body PPL, which revealed that Sheeran's music dominated British airplay across radio, television, and public venues throughout 2025.

Sheeran has averaged 574 broadcasts per day across a 15-year career

Sheeran first topped the PPL chart in 2015 and has remained within the top three every year since 2017. Across his 15-year career, he has averaged an impressive 574 broadcasts per day — a figure that underlines his sustained presence on the British airwaves.

His dominance in 2025 extended to the track chart as well, with two of his songs placing in the year's top ten most played tracks: Sapphire at number eight and Azizam at number nine.

Artist expresses gratitude for consistent support over 15 years

Sheeran has used the occasion to acknowledge those who have supported his music throughout his career, offering his thanks to broadcasters, venue operators, and fans alike for their unwavering loyalty over the past decade and a half.

Taylor Swift and Dua Lipa complete a stable top three for the third year running

The upper reaches of the artist chart showed considerable consistency. Taylor Swift claimed second place for the third consecutive year, whilst former chart-topper Dua Lipa finished in third position. The three artists have now held the top three spots for three successive chart cycles.

The remainder of the top ten featured a blend of established acts and global pop icons, including Calvin Harris, David Guetta, Coldplay, Elton John, Ariana Grande, Sabrina Carpenter, and Lady Gaga.