Ed Sheeran Named UK’s Most Played Artist Of The Year For Seventh Time
Ed Sheeran has been named the UK’s most played artist of 2023 in a chart compiled by the music licensing company PPL. The chart encompasses plays on radio, broadcast and public places.
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It’s the seventh time of the past nine years that Sheeran has taken the top spot in the chart. “Thank you for naming me the most played artist for last year,” he responded. “Thank you to my team, not just for me, but for all the other artists you work with – I’m happy that you get this recognition.”
There were also strong showings for Dua Lipa, who came in third in the chart of most played artists, with Dance The Night, her single from the Barbie soundtrack, the fifth most played song. Meanwhile, Madonna came in tenth after the success of her Celebration tour.
Peter Leathem, chief executive of PPL, said: “These exclusive charts provide a snapshot of some of the most popular music being played publicly in the UK.
“As the global music market gets more competitive, it is fantastic to see that seven out of the top 10 most played acts are British.
“The charts highlight the important role broadcasters and businesses of all shapes and sizes play in supporting home-grown talent. Thanks to them, we can do our job ensuring performers and recording rights holders get paid whenever their music is used in public.”
The chart uses data from PPL licences being issued, which allows the use of recorded music on radio, TV and in public places such as shops, bars, restaurants, gyms, offices and warehouses in the UK. Airplay reporting also comes from such broadcasters and public performance venues.
Most played artists in the UK 2023
1. Ed Sheeran
2. Taylor Swift
3. Dua Lipa
4. Calvin Harris
5. David Guetta
6. Elton John
7. Coldplay
8. Tom Grennan
9. Harry Styles
10. Madonna
Most played songs in the UK 2023
1. Flowers – Miley Cyrus
2. Eyes Closed – Ed Sheeran
3. Forget Me – Lewis Capaldi
4. Anti-Hero – Taylor Swift
5. Dance The Night – Dua Lipa
6. Miracle – Calvin Harris and Ellie Goulding
7. Trustfall – P!nk
8. Waffle House – Jonas Brothers
9. Cruel Summer – Taylor Swift
10. Heaven – Niall Horan