Azizam re-ignites the foreign factor in music

With its catchy tune and playful lyrics, this Persian-inspired song reminded me that there are other songs which have titles in another language.

Image created by Nabihah Plaatjes
English songs with titles in other languages have become a fascinating trend in the music world, blending cultural diversity with catchy melodies.
By incorporating non-English phrases, these songs often appeal to a broader international audience, adding a sense of mystery and allure.
The use of foreign languages in song titles can also reflect the artist's influences, showcase their global reach, or simply capture the essence of the language's unique expression.
In this case, Ed Sheeran's Iranian-born co-producer, Ilyan introduced Ed to his Persian heritage and culture which "opened up a door to a completely new and exciting world"*
"Azizam", a term of endearment, is a Persian word that means "my dear" or "my beloved".
Other songs that are sung in English, but have a title in another language, (which I can remember now) are:
C'est La Vie - B*witched.
C'est la vie in French, means "That's Life"
Despacito - Luis Fonso & Daddy Yankee, later remixed with Justin Bieber
Despacito in Spanish, means "slowly" or "at a slow pace"
La Vie en Rose - Whilst the Original song was sung by Édith Piaf in French, there have been many English variations (Louis Armstrong to name just one) which retained the same title.
La Vie en Rose in French, means "Life in Pink" ("Life as seen through Rose-coloured glasses")
Bailamos - Enrique Iglesias. Enrique has sung this in Spanish, he released an English version of the same title for his international audience.
Bailamos in Spanish, means "We Dance"
Waynak - Adam Saleh featuring Faydee
Waynak in Arabic, is an informal way to ask "Where are you?"
Incorporating foreign titles enhances the songs' appeal, but also introduces listeners to new languages and cultures, reiterating that music transcends boundaries.
*quote made by Ed Sheeran, taken from capitalfm article
![]() Nabihah Plaatjes is the Co-Founder of iloveza.com. She is an Award-Winning Entrepreneur, Change Agent, Published Contributing Author, Journalist, Marketing and Social Media Specialist, a Bachelor of Arts graduate, and has been writing since the age of 9. Nabihah has recently been elected as the CEO of the Independent Media Association of South Africa. Nabihah is passionate about Brand Awareness and Brand Loyalty and uses her knowledge in these fields together with her copywriting, editing and proof-reading skills to bring brands to life. iloveza.com is a primary example of how she can build your brand. Find her at: Instagram: @nabihah_dp / @ilovezacom Twitter: @nabihahd / @ilovezacom Facebook: iloveza.com LinkedIn: Nabihah Plaatjes / iloveza.com YouTube: iloveza.com SoundCloud: iloveza.com E-mail: nabihah@iloveza.com
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