Ed Sheeran’s “Azizam”: A Persian-Inspired Dance Track signals new Album “Play”
The British singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran unveils a vibrant new single, “Azizam,” hinting at the sonic direction of his forthcoming album, “Play.”
ed Sheeran surprised fans Thursday with the release of “Azizam,” a track infused with Persian influences that marks the beginning of his next musical chapter. The song is the frist single from his highly anticipated eighth album,
play. This album is part of a larger conceptual series inspired by Quentin Tarantino’s plan to retire after making 10 films. Sheeran outlined this vision years ago, stating:
When I was like 18, I had an idea for 10 albums and it was
Plus, Multiply, Divide, Subtract, Equals, and then
Play, Pause, Rewind, Fast Forward and
Stop
Ed Sheeran
This ambitious project reflects Sheeran’s long-term artistic vision and his diverse musical inspirations.
A “Pink Heart” Video and Persian Inspiration
“Azizam” arrived with a “Pink Heart” video, a collection of snapshots filmed across the United States during Sheeran’s promotional activities.Sheeran shared the video and the story behind the song on Instagram.
He also teased fans with the promise of an official music video in the works. The creation of “Azizam” was a collaborative effort with producer Ilyah Salmanzadeh, known for his work with pop stars like Ariana Grande, Charli XCX, and Tate McRae. The song emerged from a creative exploration of Salmanzadeh’s Persian heritage.
Sheeran elaborated on this collaboration in an Instagram post:
The title “Azizam” itself is a Persian term of endearment, meaning “my dear,” adding a layer of cultural richness to the song. This exploration of Persian sounds and language is a departure for Sheeran, showcasing his willingness to experiment and incorporate diverse influences into his music. For U.S. listeners, this cross-cultural pollination mirrors the country’s own diverse musical landscape, where Latin, Asian, and african sounds regularly find their way into mainstream pop.
“Play” and the Mathematics Tour
While the release date for
Play remains undisclosed, Sheeran’s previous album,
Autumn Variations, reached No. 4 on Billboard’s 200 Albums chart in 2023. In the meantime, Sheeran has been actively touring as part of his expansive Mathematics Tour, which began in April 2022 in Dublin and is scheduled to conclude in September in Düsseldorf. The tour has brought Sheeran’s music to fans worldwide, further solidifying his global appeal.
Ed Sheeran’s Impact and Future Direction
Ed Sheeran’s career trajectory is noteworthy for his ability to evolve while staying true to his musical core. “Azizam” is a testament to this, blending his signature songwriting with new sonic textures. This willingness to experiment will likely be a key factor in maintaining his relevance in the ever-changing music industry. As U.S. audiences increasingly embrace global sounds, Sheeran’s exploration of Persian music could resonate deeply, potentially opening doors to new collaborations and creative avenues.
| Album Title | Release Year | Billboard 200 Peak |
|---|---|---|
| Plus (+) | 2011 | 5 |
| Multiply (x) | 2014 | 1 |
| Divide (÷) | 2017 | 1 |
| Subtract (-) | 2023 | 2 |
| Equals (=) | 2021 | 1 |
| Autumn Variations | 2023 | 4 |
How does “Azizam” fit into the current music landscape, especially in the US?
Ed Sheeran’s “Azizam”: A Persian-Inspired Dance Track signals new Album “Play”
Interviewer: Welcome, Dr. Sharma.It’s a pleasure to have you with us to discuss Ed Sheeran’s new single,”Azizam.” Can you give us your initial impressions of the track?
Dr. anya Sharma’s Insights on “Azizam”
Dr. Sharma: Thank you for having me. “Azizam” is a fascinating step for Sheeran. It’s a clear departure, incorporating Persian influences in a really fresh way. The use of the title, which means “my dear” in Persian, immediately signals a different sonic landscape.
Interviewer: It’s interesting that you mention the Persian influence. Can you elaborate on how this might impact his established fanbase and possibly attract new listeners?
Dr. Sharma: Absolutely.Sheeran has always been about storytelling, and “Azizam” expands his cultural palette. This incorporation could attract listeners who appreciate world music.Moreover, it demonstrates an artistic willingness to evolve.The collaboration with producer Ilyah Salmanzadeh, who has Persian heritage, is a key factor here.
Interviewer: The article mentions the video “Pink Heart” with snapshots. What role does the visual component play in this release?
Dr. Sharma: The “Pink Heart” video,even though it is a collection of snapshots,creates a visual connection. It humanizes the song, offering fans a glimpse into Sheeran’s creative process and his travels. It is indeed a common marketing strategy for mainstream music, and this is no exception. This approach builds anticipation.
Interviewer: We’re also looking forward to the album “Play”, the first after “Subtract”. What do you think this new album, and Sheeran’s overall plan for ten albums, signifies for his long-term career?
Dr. Sharma: This ten-album concept, if he follows through, is an aspiring move, mirroring the scope of artists like quentin Tarantino. It suggests a deep commitment to his craft, a project is going to be a huge success. “Play” is a chance for him to continue exploring new sounds and musical styles, which has the potential to expand his appeal and artistic horizons.
Interviewer: Given the increasing global fusion in music, how do you see “Azizam” fitting into the current music landscape, especially in the US?
Dr. Sharma: The US has been embracing global sounds more and more, and “Azizam” aligns with this trend. Sheeran, with his massive global reach, can introduce listeners to Persian musical elements. The US audience is always on the lookout for fresh sounds.
Interviewer: what do you anticipate as the most significant challenge or prospect for Ed Sheeran as he moves forward with “Play” and the subsequent albums?
Dr. Sharma: Maintaining authenticity while exploring new sonic territories will be key. The challenge lies in evolving without alienating his core fanbase,while simultaneously drawing in new fans. What are your thoughts on Sheeran’s evolution and his blending of musical genres? Share your opinions in the comments below!
