Jobaaj Stories
Ed Sheeran's "Azizam": A Fusion of Persian and Irish Folk in a Pop Hit
Ed Sheeran's new single, "Azizam," is more than just a catchy tune; it's a cultural fusion masterclass. Released as the first single from his upcoming album, Play, "Azizam" marks a significant departure for the artist, showcasing a vibrant blend of Persian and Irish folk influences within a modern pop framework. The song's title itself, meaning "my dear" or "my beloved" in Farsi, hints at the heartfelt journey Sheeran embarked on with this track.
A Collaboration Born from Shared Musical Roots
The magic behind "Azizam" began with a meeting between Sheeran and Swedish/Iranian producer Ilya Salmanzadeh. They discovered unexpected similarities between Persian and Irish folk music, sparking an idea to create a pop song that celebrates this shared heritage. Salmanzadeh's expertise in Persian rhythms and instrumentation, combined with Sheeran's experience with Irish folk, resulted in a unique and captivating sound. Sheeran himself has commented on the collaborative process: "Even though it’s completely different to anything that I’ve ever done before, 'Azizam' feels familiar to me." He wanted to capture a "party atmosphere" and credits Salmanzadeh with bringing that vision to life.
More Than Just a Song: A Celebration of Culture
Sheeran's commitment to authentically representing Persian culture extends beyond the music itself. He's recorded a version of the song entirely in Farsi, demonstrating a deep respect for the language and its rich musical tradition. He's also expressed his gratitude for the enthusiastic reception "Azizam" has received from the Persian community, stating he feels “honored to be kind of taken by the hand and shown different things.” The song's music video, featuring shots from his US tour and even his beloved Ipswich FC, further underlines the celebratory and inclusive spirit of the project.
A New Era for Ed Sheeran?
Following a more introspective period with his previous albums, "Azizam" signals a playful and celebratory return to form for Sheeran. It’s a bold move, blending his signature pop sensibility with entirely new sonic landscapes. The song's success, coupled with Sheeran's excitement for his upcoming Play album, suggests a new and exciting chapter in his musical journey – one that embraces cultural fusion and a desire to experiment with different styles. "Azizam" is available now on all major streaming platforms – go listen and experience this unique cultural fusion for yourself!
