İslam Rzayev (1934–2008) was a legendary and a master of the Karabakh singing school.

"Əziz Dostum" is a staple of Azerbaijani mugham and pop culture, originally composed by with poignant lyrics based on the poetry of Rasul Gamzatov (translated by Tofiq Bahram).

He founded the first State Mugham Theater in Baku in 1989 and served as its artistic director until his death.

The protagonist laments that "grass has grown over the paths" where their friend once walked, symbolizing a long and painful separation.

In a haunting metaphor, the singer asks for his saz (a traditional instrument), but as soon as he touches a single string, they all snap—symbolizing a heart so heavy with grief that it can no longer produce music. Who was İslam Rzayev?

While "Əziz Dostum" is one of his most famous performances, he also composed beloved songs like "Gəl inad etmə" and "Dağlar başı". How to "Yukle" (Download) & Listen