PPL reveals Most Played Artists and Songs: Ed Sheeran and Harry Styles Shine

Updated

Jun 19, 2023 1:22 PM

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The music licensing company PPL has unveiled its Most Played charts for 2022, with Ed Sheeran once again claiming the title of the UK’s Most Played Artist of the Year.

Ed Sheeran secures the top spot on the Most Played Artists chart for the sixth time in the past eight years, maintaining his dominant presence since 2015. Only in 2020 did Dua Lipa interrupt his winning streak. Sheeran’s success in 2022 reflects the immense popularity of his 2021 album, =, and the enduring appeal of his previous hits.

Few artists have matched Ed Sheeran’s consistent success in PPL’s Most Played Artists charts in recent years. Coldplay, making their ninth appearance in the top 10 this year, is the only artist remaining from Sheeran’s initial appearance in 2012.

This year marks the first time Elton John and Becky Hill have entered the top 10 of the Most Played Artists charts, having previously ranked in the top 20 in 2021.

The results reaffirm the strength of the British music industry, with UK artists dominating the top 10 of the Most Played Artists chart. Eight listed artists, including Ed Sheeran, Dua Lipa, Harry Styles, and Coldplay, are from the UK. Overseas artist David Guetta claims the third spot, while Taylor Swift represents the US in tenth place.

Ed Sheeran, the Most Played Artist of 2022, expressed his gratitude to his listeners, stating, “Thanks to everyone who continues to listen to and enjoy my music. I never take it for granted x.”

As It Was wins the Most Played Song of the Year title

Harry Styles’ “As It Was” claimed the title of the Most Played Song of the Year in the UK, surpassing Lizzo’s hit “About Damn Time.” Styles’ captivating vocals and infectious synth hook propelled the song to number one in the national singles charts across 39 countries, including the UK, USA, and Germany. This marks Styles’ second appearance on the Most Played Song chart, following his fifth-place ranking in 2020 with “Adore You.”

The Most Played Song chart of 2022 features an array of popular tracks from various artists, including Elton John and Dua Lipa’s “Cold Heart (PNAU Remix)” and George Ezra’s “Anyone For You (Tiger Lily).”

PPL is responsible for licensing recorded music on radio, TV, and public spaces in the UK. By collecting extensive airplay data from broadcasters and venues, PPL ensures that performers and recording rightsholders receive proper compensation. The annual Most Played charts provide a unique perspective on the usage of recorded music by broadcasters and businesses throughout the UK.