Ed Sheeran Tops Taylor Swift as UK's Most Played Artist for Record Eighth Time
Ed Sheeran Tops Taylor Swift as UK's Most Played Artist for Record Eighth Time
Ed Sheeran makes history again, beating Taylor Swift to become the UK's most-played artist. With 24 plays every hour, find out how he secured the top spot for an eighth time!
In a battle of the music titans, Ed Sheeran has once again proven why he is the king of the British airwaves. For a record-breaking eighth time, the "Shape of You" singer has been crowned the UK’s most-played artist, edging out global superstar Taylor Swift for the top spot.
New data shows that Sheeran’s extensive catalog remains a staple for listeners across the country. On average, his music is played a staggering 574 times every single day. If you break that down, it equates to his songs being heard roughly 24 times every hour—basically once every two and a half minutes somewhere in the UK.
While Taylor Swift has had a massive year with her record-breaking tour, Sheeran’s consistent radio presence and popularity in public spaces like shops and restaurants have kept him ahead in the airplay game. This latest milestone further cements his status as one of the most successful British artists of all time.
It wasn't just about the established superstars, though. The latest rankings also highlighted some fresh talent making waves. While Sheeran took the crown for the most-played artist overall, the title for the single most-played track of 2025 went to Myles Smith. His hit song "Nice To Meet You" dominated radio, television, and public venues, proving to be the ultimate earworm of the year.
The rankings reflect music played across radio stations, TV channels, and in public settings like pubs, clubs, and offices. It seems that whether you’re commuting to work or grabbing a coffee, the sounds of Ed Sheeran and Myles Smith are the definitive soundtrack to life in the UK right now.
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