The article examines the traditions and new trends in the epic creativity of Azerbaijani ashiks. The reasons for the emergence of ashik art in the Middle Ages and the main characteristics of this art are explained. The continuation of the epic tradition by ashiks and the characteristic features of ashik epics are explained. Based on observations of the performance of the ashik epic, its connection with the main characteristics of the period is clarified. Traditionalism and new trends are determined in the epic creativity of the ashiks.