Ed Sheeran has officially kickstarted a new musical chapter with the release of his vibrant new single, Azizam, on April 4. The upbeat, pop-tinged track not only showcases a fresh sonic direction for the chart-topping artist but also draws deep inspiration from Persian culture, marking a culturally rich milestone in Sheeran’s ever-evolving discography.
What Does Azizam Mean?
The title Azizam (pronounced ah-zee-zam) has quickly caught fans’ attention—not just for its catchy rhythm, but for its meaning. Rooted in Persian, Azizam is a heartfelt term derived from the word Aziz, which means “beloved” or “dear.” The suffix -am makes it possessive, translating the word to “my beloved” or “my dear.” It’s an affectionate expression commonly used in Persian-speaking cultures, adding a layer of emotional depth and authenticity to the song.
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The Persian Connection: Producer ILYA’s Influence
The Persian influence in Azizam is no coincidence. The track’s producer, ILYA (Ilya Salmanzadeh), is of Persian descent and is known for blending cultural textures into pop music. A powerhouse producer from Max Martin’s famed Wolf Cousins collective, ILYA has previously crafted hits for artists like Ariana Grande (Into You), Ellie Goulding (Love Me Like You Do), and Sam Smith (Unholy). According to Sheeran, the song was born after ILYA suggested they create something inspired by his Persian roots. The result is a lively fusion of cultures that feels both global and deeply personal.
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A Glimpse into Play – The Next Album
Azizam sets the tone for Sheeran’s upcoming eighth studio album, Play. During a March appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Sheeran shared that Play is part of a long-planned 10-album series. “When I was like 18, I had an idea for 10 albums,” he said, listing Plus, Multiply, Divide, Subtract, Equals, followed by Play, Pause, Rewind, Fast Forward, and Stop a concept inspired by Quentin Tarantino’s ten-film legacy.
While the official release date for Play remains under wraps, Azizam is already making waves. Accompanied by a vibrant “Pink Heart” visual montage from Sheeran’s U.S. promotional tour, and with an official music video teased on Instagram, fans can expect more surprises soon.
