Ed Sheeran Surprises New Orleans with Debut of Unreleased Song ‘Azizam’
On March 15, 2025, Ed Sheeran delighted fans in New Orleans’ French Quarter with an impromptu performance, unveiling his unreleased track, “Azizam.” The Grammy-winning artist arrived unannounced, carrying a portable amplifier and microphone, and was accompanied by the renowned brass ensemble, The Soul Rebels.
Addressing the gathered crowd, Sheeran shared, “I’ve got a new song coming in a couple weeks that no one’s heard. This will be the first time it’s ever been played live.” He invited attendees to join a musical parade through the historic district, blending his new material with familiar hits.
The performance was documented on Sheeran’s Instagram, showcasing him and The Soul Rebels leading a lively procession through the streets, much to the delight of onlookers.
This surprise event aligns with Sheeran’s recent pattern of spontaneous appearances. Earlier in the week, he surprised patrons at Nashville’s Tootsie’s bar with an unplanned set, and in February, he attempted a street performance in Bengaluru, India, which was halted by authorities due to overwhelming crowds.
“Azizam” is anticipated to feature on Sheeran’s forthcoming eighth studio album, Play, slated for release later this year. His previous album, Autumn Variations, debuted in 2023.
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Photo Credit: yakub88 / Shutterstock.com
