Ed Sheeran Returns to His Roots with New Pop Single “Azizam”
LONDON — After a pair of low-key, introspective albums, Ed Sheeran has made a triumphant return to his musical roots with the release of his latest pop single, Azizam.
The track showcases Sheeran’s versatility as an artist, incorporating Middle Eastern influences inspired by producer Illya Salmanzadeh’s Persian heritage.
With the title meaning “my dear” or “my darling” in Farsi, Azizam features instruments like the ghatam, a clay pot commonly used as percussion in Southern India, and the santur, a hammered dulcimer of Iranian origin.
Sheeran expressed his excitement about celebrating Persian culture, stating, “Persians are really proud of their culture, and it’s great to celebrate it.”
Released during a busy week for new music, Azizam is set to make waves in the music industry, alongside tracks by artists like Miley Cyrus, Wet Leg, and Elton John.
While staying true to his pop roots, Sheeran’s incorporation of Persian influences is expected to boost his popularity in the rapidly growing Middle Eastern music market.
This isn’t the first time Sheeran has experimented with different musical styles to connect with diverse audiences.
Known for his collaborations with artists from various genres, Sheeran’s willingness to embrace new sounds and cultures has earned him a dedicated global fan base.
Speaking about the creation of Azizam, Sheeran shared his enthusiasm for immersing himself in Persian music and exploring new rhythms and melodies.
Sheeran credits producer Illya Salmanzadeh for sparking the idea to incorporate Persian elements in the song, which is the first single from an upcoming album that promises to be playful and celebratory.
Debuting the song in New Orleans with a live performance accompanied by the Soul Rebels brass band, Sheeran has already garnered praise for Azizam’s unique sound and inclusion of background vocals from the Citizens of the World Choir.
While early reviews have been positive, some critics have noted that the Persian influences in Azizam may take a backseat to its predominantly “Anglo-Saxon” pop vibe.
Despite mixed reviews, fans have embraced Sheeran’s exploration of Persian music influences, praising the song for its authenticity and cultural significance.
With a successful world tour under his belt and a highly anticipated eighth studio album on the horizon, Sheeran’s latest endeavors mark a pivotal moment in his career.
As he continues to push musical boundaries and connect with audiences worldwide, Sheeran’s legacy as a chart-topping, genre-defying artist remains unmatched.
Stay tuned for more updates on Ed Sheeran’s musical journey and the release of his upcoming album “Play.”
