Palestinian singer, songwriter and filmmaker Zaher Saleh shares his captivating new single ‘La7ali (Alone)’, out on all streaming platforms on 27th January. The track is accompanied by a breathtaking music video, filmed on a lake in Kiev, Ukraine in the depths of winter. 

With his previous single ‘Kezbeh (Lie)’ telling the personal story of a young gay Muslim man sturggling to reconcile his personal liberties, sexuality, and love life, with his faith, family, and personal beliefs, ‘La7ali (Alone)’ moves on to explore the difficulties of navitating a relationship when each person is at a different stage in their life.

What should a song or work of art communicate in your opinion? 

Sometimes we create art for our own enjoyment and that’s okay, but if the work sends a powerful message, it can inspire openness and tolerance.

With my work, whether in film or music, I try to be as authentic as possible by speaking about the experiences and emotions I have been through. I hope people connect to that intention through their own experiences.

Who were your top 3 artists last year?

Fatima Al Qadiri, a great, versatile artist from Kuwait. Nicolas Jaar, who is an incredible person, always standing up for good causes, and his works are beautiful. Finally, Achraf Andaloussi with his piano arabesques.

What do you do when you’re feeling uninspired?

It’s hard for anyone when inspiration is lacking. I used to be affected by that, but I realized that it’s only normal. Now whenever that happens or whenever I feel stuck, I just trust that it’s a passing feeling. I sit with it even if it takes a week or two. The feeling eventually fizzles and I find myself inspired again.

What are your 2022 projects and goals?

To continue loving, creating and growing.

Favourite movie or TV show?

Succession was incredible, such a well written and produced show. Scenes From a Marriage also, the performances were just breathtaking. 

Tell us about your latest release ‘La7ali (Alone)’ and how it came about

After coming out to my friends and brothers, I started dating this remarkable man. At the time, he wasn’t out to his parents, and neither was I to mine. But as our love evolved, I felt ready to share my truth with my parents. But he wasn’t. And that was okay. I had no expectations and acknowledged that he should only do it when it feels right. A little after a year, our relationship had ended. However, we remained on good terms, and our appreciation for each other never faded. Not long after, he opened up about his sexuality to his parents, and I was beyond proud and happy for him. We both felt safe because we tried to be patient, compassionate, and loving to each other. The song is a reflection of this experience. Sometimes, we might be moving at a different pace, which brings much fear and uncertainty. But I believe that all we can do is be true to ourselves and have no expectations of others.

Is there something you would want to change in the music and entertainment industry?

I think it’s already happening, which is great, and that is for artists to be more in control of their work.

Can you outline your creative process?

When it comes to creating music, I don’t really follow a rigid plan. Most of the time I get an urge to sing something, so I head to my computer, turn my microphone on, and start looking for instrumentals. Whenever I find a nice piano piece, I hit record and start improvising. Later I polish the lyrics and performance and then I send it off to my wonderful friend and producer Ethan Conway so he can add his magic touch.

Who inspires your style and aesthetics?

I would say everything around me is inspiring, one way or another. Even if we don’t realize it, we are constantly taking in information and storing it in our subconscious and then bring them out to the surface in different ways. 

What is the achievement or moment in your career you are the most proud of and why?

I would say coming to terms with my sexuality publicly and sharing it with my family. Growing up I never thought I would share this part of myself with anyone, but I’m proud that I was able to see through that and work on accepting and loving myself in that way. Obviously it’s still an ongoing process, something I made peace with.

Do you have any regrets?

I don’t think I do. I fully trust that there’s not just one way to get around. I’m here because of all the decisions I’ve made in the past. Yes, I might’ve gotten things done faster or more efficiently if I’ve taken different roads, but we are human beings full of complex ideas and emotions, so it is what it is! No regrets at all.

Is there a piece of advice you would give to yourself right now?

To never doubt my gut feeling and to always lead with my heart.