On this day in 2019, Ed Sheeran was crowned UK’s Artist of the Decade by the Official Charts Company – a fitting recognition of his monumental influence on music throughout the 2010s. As the New Year draws closer, it prompts the question: Who will define this decade in the same way?
Ed Sheeran’s journey to stardom began with a viral performance on YouTube that facilitated his breakthrough. This breakthrough paved the way for his debut album ‘+’ (Plus) in 2011. With hits like ‘The A Team’ and ‘Lego House’ he earned several awards, including the BRIT Award for Best British Male Solo Artist.
Sheeran’s success continued to grow following the release of his second album ‘x’ (Multiply) in 2014. This record cemented his international reputation, featuring chart-topping tracks like ‘Sing’ and ‘Thinking Out Loud’ which won Song of the Year at the Grammys. The album’s success anchored the singer in the global music scene as Spotify named ‘x’ the most-streamed album in 2014.
Three years later, and his third album ‘÷’ (pronounced ‘Divide’) granted Sheeran commercial domination as singles like ‘Shape of You’ and ‘Castle on the Hill’ shattered global streaming records. His accompanying ‘÷ Tour’ was a historic success and became the highest-grossing tour at that time generating $925m (£727m).
Over the decade, Sheeran amassed 79 cumulative weeks at No.1 on UK Charts and sold over 150 million records worldwide. His ability to craft across genres and relatable, emotive songwriting skills made Sheeran a global, award-winning star. Therefore it is no surprise that he was named UK Artist of the Decade for the 2010s.
As we reach the halfway mark of the 2020s, it’s worth considering who might achieve similar heights.
Taylor Swift is undoubtedly at the forefront of global music. With 11 studio albums and record-breaking Eras tour grossing at $2b (£1.6b), she has become a global phenomenon. Yet, with her tour concluded, there will be room for new voices to make their mark.
| Taylor Swift’s ‘The Eras Tour’ has officially come to an end pic.twitter.com/Uz2D30Lq2w
— The Eras Tour (@tswifterastour) December 9, 2024
In the UK, the BRIT Awards indicate that artists like Harry Styles and RAYE are making waves.
In 2019, Styles’ second studio album ‘Fine Line’ became a massive commercial success and produced multiple hit singles like ‘Watermelon Sugar’. ‘Harry’s House’ in 2022 became his third album and was followed by a 22-month ‘Love On Tour’ World Tour and domination at the BRITs. Not only a major force in modern pop, he has explored his passion for acting and fashion, making him a multifaceted figure in the entertainment industry. Styles’ success story parallels Sheeran’s, as they’ve both diversified their musical styles and have expanded into other creative avenues, making Styles a sure contender for defining the 2020s.
Love On Tour. London I. June, 2022. pic.twitter.com/zu9XEz3KzU
— Harry Styles. (@Harry_Styles) June 19, 2022
RAYE has undergone a significant transformation in her music career during this decade as she made the decision to leave her major record label and established herself independently. Her breakthrough single ‘Escapism’ shot up the UK charts and preceded her debut album ‘My 21st Century Blues’ in 2023. After sweeping six awards at the BRITs in 2024, RAYE’s career is clearly blooming and her unique sound paired with skilled songwriting reflects Sheeran’s iconic abilities.
SIX @BRITs & ALBUM OF THE YEAR please just thank you https://t.co/c23XcFUtUl pic.twitter.com/4MAYkWiFgj
— RAYE (@raye) March 3, 2024
Ed Sheeran’s dominance was built on a combination of volume, quality, and consistency: three standout albums and a record-breaking tour. With five years left in this decade, established artists will need to continue innovating to maintain their influence but there’s still plenty of room for new voices to emerge.
The question remains: Will anyone else match Sheeran’s level of achievement by the time the 2020s draw to a close?
