Etaf introduces their debut album with “Hey Habibi”, a track grounded in Gulf rhythmic traditions and structured through a clear, pop-informed arrangement. Based in London and originally from Kuwait with Palestinian and Lebanese roots, the artist draws on Arabic melodic phrasing and Khaleeji percussion while delivering lyrics in English that address gender expression, social fatphobia and personal autonomy. The single is the first from Don’t Call Me Baby, out 26 September 2025.

Produced by Etaf with Abdellah Messous, Salem and Eve Singleton, the track combines acoustic and electronic instrumentation including oud, synth, Kuwaiti percussion and bass guitar. The vocal line is direct and closely tracked, supported by a minimal arrangement that foregrounds rhythm and lyrical clarity. References to both SWANA popular culture and lived personal experience locate the song in a specific cultural context while maintaining a concise musical form.

The visual, directed by Riffy Ahmed with styling by Leena Mistry and costume by Hassan Hajjaj, reinforces the track’s setting through coded references to London’s queer SWANA community.

“Hey Habibi” was released on 11 July. Stream and listen to the single HERE