When Did Ed Sheeran Start His Career? Full Timeline

Ed Sheeran is one of the most successful musicians of the 21st century. With his soulful voice, heartfelt lyrics, and exceptional songwriting abilities, he has captivated audiences worldwide. But when did his journey in music truly begin? In this article, we will explore Ed Sheeran’s early career, his rise to fame, and the key milestones that shaped his journey.

Ed Sheeran’s Early Life and Interest in Music

Childhood and Musical Influence

Edward Christopher Sheeran was born on February 17, 1991, in Halifax, West Yorkshire, England. He grew up in Framlingham, Suffolk, where he developed a passion for music at a young age. Influenced by artists like Damien Rice, The Beatles, and Eminem, Sheeran started playing the guitar and writing songs as a child.

First Steps in Music

At the age of 11, Sheeran attended a Damien Rice concert, which inspired him to take music seriously. He began recording his own songs and performing at local venues. His parents were supportive of his musical aspirations, and by his early teens, he was already creating and distributing his music independently.

The Beginning of Ed Sheeran’s Career

Early Mixtapes and Struggles

Sheeran’s professional career began in the mid-2000s. He released his first EP, ‘The Orange Room’, in 2005, when he was just 14 years old. He continued releasing independent EPs such as ‘Ed Sheeran’ (2006) and ‘Want Some?’ (2007).

Moving to London and Gaining Experience

In 2008, at the age of 17, Sheeran moved to London to pursue his music career. He started performing at small gigs, open mic nights, and busking on the streets. During this period, he played over 300 live shows in a year, demonstrating his dedication and work ethic.

The Turning Point: Online Success and Recognition

YouTube and Social Media Growth

Sheeran took advantage of social media, especially YouTube, to promote his music. He uploaded performances and original songs, which gradually built a strong online following. This digital presence played a crucial role in his breakthrough.

2010 – The Year of Growth

In 2010, he released ‘Loose Change’, an EP that featured the hit song “The A Team.” This song gained significant traction, leading to more opportunities. That same year, he traveled to Los Angeles with no record deal but ended up performing at Jamie Foxx’s radio show, where the Hollywood star was so impressed that he let Sheeran use his recording studio.

Ed Sheeran’s Rise to Fame

2011: Signing with a Major Label

After gaining recognition through his independent work, Ed Sheeran signed with Asylum Records in 2011. His debut studio album, ‘+’ (Plus), was released in September of that year. The album featured hit singles like “The A Team,” “Lego House,” and “You Need Me, I Don’t Need You.”

Chart Success and Awards

• “The A Team” became a commercial success, reaching the Top 10 in multiple countries and winning Best Song Musically and Lyrically at the Ivor Novello Awards.
• ‘+’ (Plus) was a massive success in the UK and later internationally.
• Sheeran quickly became known for his deep and poetic lyrics, combined with a unique blend of folk, pop, and R&B.

International Stardom and Continued Success

2014: The Breakthrough with ‘x’ (Multiply)

In 2014, Sheeran released his second studio album, ‘x’ (Multiply), which catapulted him to international stardom. This album featured some of his biggest hits:

• “Sing” – A collaboration with Pharrell Williams that showcased a more upbeat side of Sheeran.
• “Thinking Out Loud” – One of his most iconic songs, which won Song of the Year at the Grammy Awards.

2017: The Blockbuster Album ‘÷’ (Divide)

Sheeran’s third studio album, ‘÷’ (Divide), was released in 2017 and became a global phenomenon. This album featured record-breaking singles:

• “Shape of You” – One of the best-selling digital singles of all time.
• “Perfect” – A romantic ballad that topped charts worldwide.

2021–Present: New Music and Continued Success

Sheeran continued to evolve with the release of ‘=’ (Equals) in 2021, followed by ‘-’ (Subtract) in 2023. His music remains influential, with millions of streams and sold-out concerts across the world.

FAQs About Ed Sheeran’s Career

1. When did Ed Sheeran officially start his music career?

Ed Sheeran started recording and performing music professionally in the mid-2000s. His first independent EP, ‘The Orange Room,’ was released in 2005.

2. What was Ed Sheeran’s breakthrough moment?

His breakthrough came in 2011 with his debut studio album ‘+’ (Plus), which featured the hit single “The A Team.”

3. How did Ed Sheeran become famous?

Sheeran gained fame through a combination of social media, independent releases, live performances, and collaborations with famous artists like Taylor Swift and Jamie Foxx.

4. What is Ed Sheeran’s most successful album?

‘÷’ (Divide), released in 2017, is considered his most successful album, featuring chart-topping hits like “Shape of You” and “Perfect.”

5. Has Ed Sheeran won any major awards?

Yes, Ed Sheeran has won multiple awards, including Grammy Awards, BRIT Awards, and Billboard Music Awards.

Conclusion

Ed Sheeran’s career began at a young age, fueled by passion and dedication. From performing at small gigs in London to becoming a global superstar, his journey is truly inspiring. His ability to blend different genres and craft meaningful lyrics has earned him a place among the most successful artists of his generation. With each new album, Sheeran continues to evolve, proving that his musical journey is far from over.