It’s no secret Australia loves British pop star Ed Sheeran.
His debut single The A Team spent virtually all of 2011 at the top of the ARIA Singles Charts, and went five times platinum, selling over 350,000 units.
In 2013 Sheeran played Brisbane’s Riverstage. By the time he came back in 2015, he was selling out Suncorp Stadium.
After a notable absence last year, Sheeran returned in 2017 with two new singles, Shape Of You and Castle On The Hill, and made ARIA chart history by debuting in the number 1 and 2 spots respectively.
His new album, ÷ (Divide), features 16 songs. A whopping 15 of those are currently sitting in the ARIA Australian Top 50 Singles Chart. In fact, they’re all sitting pretty in the top 40, including the two debut singles which are still sitting at number 1 and 2.
His previous albums X and + are currently sitting at numbers 3 and 4 on the ARIA Top 5 Albums Chart, as well. Of course, ÷ is number one. Adele has taken out the other two places.
So what’s the big attraction to us Australians? Is it Sheeran’s seemingly affable nature?
Certainly, Sunrise co-host Samantha Armytage had plenty of good things to say when Sheeran appeared on the show during a promo tour in February, saying his rider request was one of the least diva-ish they’ve had.
“A bottle of Robinson’s squash, six cans of fizzy drink and one jar of Manuka honey,” she said, before adding, “strawberries and pineapple,” as well.
Media personalities Hamish & Andy showed off Sheeran’s good nature in this video, where they gave fans in Sydney an opportunity to peep at the star for $2:
Or is it just because he reminds us of the other great British ranga, Ron Weasley (AKA Rupert Grint), who actually appeared in Sheeran’s music video for Lego House?
Whatever the reason, Australia has certainly embraced Ed Sheeran – and we can’t wait for his next tour Down Under!
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