British music legend Ed Sheeran has done it again, releasing his latest single, “Azizam,” from his upcoming eighth studio album, “Play,” expected in 2025. Deeply rooted in its Persian heritage, the song plays along a new soundscape while remaining within Sheeran’s signature heartfelt storytelling.
A Persian word for an endearment that translates to “dear,” “Azizam” is a cultural bridge, mixing rhythms and melodies of Persian scales with Sheeran’s unmistakable acoustic warmth. Written by Ilya Salmanzadeh, Ed Sheeran, Johnny McDaid, and Savan Kotecha, and produced by Ed Sheeran, Ilya Salmanzadeh, Savan Kotecha and Johnny McDaid, the track shows Sheeran’s inquisitive ear and admiration for sounds worldwide.
Sheeran explained he was inspired to write “Azizam” after Ilya Salmanzadeh suggested making music based on his Persian heritage and culture. As he traveled more and met more people, he loved learning about music and different cultures. This opened up a whole new world, a world of excitement for him. In addition to talking about the different types of Persian music, Sheeran also made a surprising connection between the genre and the Irish traditional sounds he grew up on, pointing out that it all boils down to how music brings people together despite their backgrounds.
Sheeran released a “Pink Heart Video” directed by Liam Pethick while awaiting the official music video. Filmed between the USA and Ipswich during his promotional run, the video captures the euphoric energy surrounding the track’s release. The teaser video features fans interacting with pink heart imagery, an artistic nod to the song’s love-filled subject matter. It’s a tease of what should be a visual feast when the full music video arrives soon.
As the first taste of “Play,” “Azizam” foreshadows an exploratory, genre-blurring album celebrating varied musical traditions. If this single is any indication, Sheeran’s 2025 album won’t be another collection of songs but a world tour in sounds. With “Azizam,” Ed Sheeran is forming connections. As the world listens, “Play” is proving his boldest record.
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