Salwa’s newest single, “Ghost You,” fits squarely into that category. It is a propulsive electro-pop anthem that combines space disco, theatrical choral elements, and raw storytelling. If the nightlife had a heartbeat, this would be it.
The Lebanese Palestinian-Scottish artist does not play by traditional rules, and “Ghost You” is evidence of her subversive spirit. Born of a moment of fleeting frustration, a WhatsApp message left unread that morphed into a lyrical manifesto of sorts, “Ghost You” takes ghosting culture and flips it on its head. Rather than wallow, Salwa takes control over her giant groove of shimmering synths, Justice-esque choral flourishes, and a strutting bassline.
Based in East London but raised in Beirut, Salwa’s artistry is as multilayered as her heritage. Trained at Drama Centre London, she has flirted with avant-garde filmmaking, poetry, and modeling campaigns worldwide, but it is in music that her voice sounds most comfortable. And what a voice it is commanding, sultry, and attitude-laden.
Accompanying “Ghost You” is a visually stunning music video directed by Ted Clarke. Filmed on grainy Super 8, it sets Salwa in an ‘80s gymnasium dreamscape, a surreal mix of nostalgia and neon-lit tension. “It was the duality of nightlife that I wanted to capture,” she explains. “The high-gloss fantasy versus the raw, unvarnished truth.”
With “Ghost You,” Salwa is making a statement. This woman is counterattacking her narrative and setting an upbeat pace for anyone willing to dance through their angst. One thing’s for sure: ghosting has never sounded better.