"I have massive respect for what Paolo and Plan B have done – they’ve opened the door for me. Atlantic realised that artists will work hard if they’re releasing their own songs. I’m more likely to do a 12-hour day of promo if it’s a song I’ve written.”

Amazingly, 20-year-old Sheeran independently hit the No.2 position in the iTunes chart at the end of last year with his 'No 5 Collaborations' project, just missing out on a No.1 to Bajan beauty Rihanna, and he is now (June 15) at 4 with his debut single, 'The A Team'. 

The 'Little Bird' singer has also cut drinking from his routine in an effort to keep a clear head and motivated:

"I need to get into the right headspace. Drinking is fun but cutting it out has made a difference to me wanting to get up early. I don’t want to do anything to ruin my chances of being successful. It’s a great ride.”

Check out his stunning live rendition of 'Wayfaring Stranger' below: