Ed Sheeran has once again cemented his status as the UK’s most-played artist, topping the charts for an impressive eighth time in 11 years, according to music licensing agency PPL (Phonographic Performance Limited).
The British singer-songwriter surpassed pop sensation Taylor Swift, who landed in second place, with fellow UK star Dua Lipa securing the third spot.
The 35-year-old’s enduring popularity saw him dominate the agency’s chart of most-played artists across radio, television, and public venues.
Expressing his gratitude, Sheeran stated: “I am so grateful to be named most-played artist across TV, radio and venues across the UK for an incredible eighth time. A huge thanks to everyone who has played my music over the last year, and over the last 15 years. I really appreciate the continuing support.”
PPL data highlighted his pervasive presence, revealing his music is played an average of 574 times daily, equating to 24 plays every hour.
The top 10 most-played artists also featured Calvin Harris (fourth), David Guetta (fifth), Coldplay (sixth), Sir Elton John (seventh), Ariana Grande (eighth), Sabrina Carpenter (ninth) and Lady Gaga (tenth).
Beyond individual artists, Myles Smith’s track “Nice To Meet You’”was crowned the most-played song across radio, television, and public spaces in 2025.
Smith shared his disbelief and appreciation for the track’s success: “Having the most-played song in the UK last year with ‘Nice To Meet You’ and seeing ‘Stargazing’ still in the top 10 – honestly it still doesn’t feel real. I’m so grateful to everyone who has listened, to my fans who have been with me from the beginning and to everyone at radio and in the venues who has supported the music. It means everything.”
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The list of most-played tracks also included Lola Young’s “Messy” (second), Alex Warren’s “Ordinary” (third), and Sam Fender’s “People Watching” (fourth).
Rose and Bruno Mars’ “APT” secured fifth, followed by Benson Boone’s “Sorry I’m Here For Someone Else” (sixth), Chappell Roan’s “Pink Pony Club” (seventh), and two entries from Sheeran himself, “Sapphire” and “Azizam: (eighth and ninth, respectively). Myles Smith’s “Stargazing” completed the top 10.
PPL is the UK music industry’s collective management organisation, which collects royalties for artists and rights holders when their music is broadcast or played in public.
