released: september 26, 2025

genre: arabic pop

from: kuwait / palestine (based in london, uk)

label: self-released

a few thoughts: popstar etaf is one to watch. for now and the future. their debut project don’t call me baby is a powerful meditation on identity, queerness, both personal and collective liberation and general life things, making it a relatable, fun and memorable listen. rooted in arabic music, with rich melodies that complement their soothing poignant voice, the album has some truly electric moments. “own me” has an infectious beat, with etaf singing “shave my body like you really wanna hold me” over a thick bassline and incredible guitar and oud grooves. the upbeat and dancy “hey habibi” is a highlight, as etaf reflects on the ongoing pressure to conform to societal standards and being an iconic cool arab. the guitar-led grooves on “i got you” are infectious, as they reflect on relationships, while “don’t call me baby” has this incredible and catchy melody hook – “don’t call me baby, call me habibi, i like arabic don’t like englezi”. with its two step beat and crazy groove, it’s another great moment on the album. spanish-speaking singer and artist fox gunn appears on “okeh”, another groovy and sensual cut. the stripped back “since early may” is another beautiful moment, as etaf opens about their mental health poignantly, on an acoustic cut that is just stunning from start to finish. on the dynamic “polytunnel”, etaf talks about their experience of polyamory and queer love in general. “fake prada” was made in egypt on a trip with friends, a catchy, anti-capitalist jam with a dynamic groove and expressive lyrics that again, capture the energy of etaf’s artistry brilliantly. they are so unapologetically themselves, which is beautiful to see and experience through their emotive and beautiful music. don’t call me baby is a stunning body of work and one that has established etaf as a cool, iconic arab popstar.

the album:

https://music.apple.com/gb/album/dont-call-me-baby/1839094001