Ed Sheeran wasn’t expected to make it big. A redhead with a guitar and no industry ties, he crashed on friends’ couches and busked on London streets, driven by pure determination and belief in his music.

Born in Halifax, England, in 1991, Ed began writing songs young and, inspired by Damien Rice, dropped out of school at sixteen to pursue music in London. He played over 300 shows a year, often sleeping rough.

His big break came in 2010 when Jamie Foxx discovered him online and flew him to L.A., offering studio access and support. That led to Ed’s EP No. 5 Collaborations Project, which caught industry attention.

By 2011, his debut album + featured hits like “The A Team.” With albums like x and ÷, and songs like “Thinking Out Loud” and “Shape of You,” Ed rose to global stardom—proof that perseverance and talent can change everything.