Ed Sheeran beats Taylor Swift to be UK's most played artist
Ed Sheeran beats Taylor Swift to be UK's most played artist

Ed Sheeran has once again been named the UK's most played artist, topping the charts for the eighth time in 11 years, according to music licensing agency PPL. The British singer-songwriter surpassed pop star Taylor Swift, who came second, with Dua Lipa in third place.

The 35-year-old's music is played an average of 574 times daily, or 24 times every hour, across radio, television and public venues. Sheeran said he was 'so grateful' for the support over the past year and 15 years.

The top ten most played artists also included Calvin Harris, David Guetta, Coldplay, Sir Elton John, Ariana Grande, Sabrina Carpenter and Lady Gaga.

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Myles Smith's track 'Nice To Meet You' was the most played song of 2025, with Lola Young's 'Messy' in second and Alex Warren's 'Ordinary' third. Smith said the achievement 'still doesn't feel real' and thanked fans and radio for their support.

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