Azizam review – a love letter in Persian pop form… with an unexpectedly Western soul

​Ed Sheeran’s latest single, “Azizam,” marks a notable departure from his previous musical endeavors, intertwining Persian musical elements with his signature English pop style. Released on 4 April 2025, this track serves as the lead single from his forthcoming album, Play. The title, “Azizam,” translates from Farsi to “my dear” or “my beloved,” setting the tone for a romantic composition that bridges cultural divides.​

Genesis of “Azizam”

The inception of “Azizam” can be traced back to Sheeran’s collaboration with Iranian-born Swedish producer Ilya Salmanzadeh. Their partnership was driven by a mutual desire to explore and incorporate Persian musical traditions into a contemporary pop framework. Sheeran expressed enthusiasm about this venture: “​It was just fun exploring something completely new. It’s rare this far into my career to be excited by something that I haven’t done before, and it felt really new and fresh.” ​

Musical Composition and Influences

“Azizam” is characterized by a rhythmic dance beat enriched with traditional Middle Eastern instruments such as the daf and santur. These elements are subtly woven into the song’s fabric, complementing Sheeran’s percussive acoustic guitar work and melodic hooks. The chorus introduces a Middle Eastern counter-melody, adding an exotic flair to the otherwise familiar pop structure. Lyrically, the song revolves around themes of love and intimacy, with Sheeran singing about dancing with his wife, further personalizing the track.

Reception and Cultural Impact

The release of “Azizam” elicited a spectrum of responses from critics and fans alike. Some reviewers noted that the song retains a predominantly English pop essence despite its Persian-inspired branding. The Guardian observed, “There’s a noticeable lope to the rhythm that could well have its roots in Tehran, but could just as easily be an echo of the deathless glitterbeat that sprang out of early 70s glam.”

Conversely, the Iranian community and Persian music enthusiasts have largely embraced the song. The inclusion of Farsi lyrics and traditional instruments has been seen as a respectful nod to Persian culture. An article in The Guardian highlighted this sentiment: “Hearing a beloved artist embrace our language with such care? We feel it. And we’re here for it.” ​

Music Video and Visual Representation

Accompanying the single is a visually engaging music video that features Sheeran traversing various locales with a pink, heart-shaped balloon—a symbol of love and connection. The video captures scenes from cities like New York and Los Angeles and Sheeran’s hometown of Ipswich, effectively mirroring the song’s theme of blending diverse cultural elements. The heart-shaped balloon serves as a metaphor for the universal nature of love, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries.​

Broader Implications in Contemporary Pop

“Azizam” exemplifies a growing trend in mainstream music where artists seek to infuse their work with global influences, fostering cross-cultural appreciation. Sheeran’s foray into Persian music aligns with his history of exploring diverse musical landscapes, including collaborations with African and Latin American artists. This approach broadens his artistic horizons and introduces his audience to a rich tapestry of global sounds.​

Conclusion

In “Azizam,” Ed Sheeran delivers a heartfelt homage to Persian culture, seamlessly integrating traditional musical elements with his distinctive pop sensibility. While opinions on the song’s authenticity vary, its impact in highlighting and celebrating cultural diversity within popular music is undeniable. As Sheeran continues to evolve as an artist, “Azizam” stands as a testament to the unifying power of music across cultures.