ALEWYA – Maktoub

Critically acclaimed London-based Ethiopian-Egyptian artist and curator Alewya returns today with “Maktoub” (“it is written” in Arabic). The bold, percussive cut leans into a more commanding, rap-led delivery, and is the latest single from her debut full length album ZERO – out June 26th via Because London Records.

Driven by a pulsing bassline and sharp electronic production, the track blends industrial textures with global rhythmic influences, creating a sound that feels both urgent and expansive. “Maktoub” channels themes of resistance, destiny and self-determination, revealing another dimension of ZERO.

“Sometimes songs take time to reveal themselves but ‘Maktoub’ felt immediate and effortless from day one,” notes Alewya.

Alewya’s sound across ZERO draws from Ethiopian and Egyptian musical heritage, blending traditional rhythms with innovative, forward-thinking production that defies genre boundaries. Previous singles “City of Symbols”, “Night Drive”, “Eshi”, and “Selah” each showcase different facets of this expansive and personal sonic universe. Alewya co-produced ZERO with long-term collaborators Craigey Dodds and Dean Barrett, with Busy Twist contributing on some tracks, and Shy FX serving as executive producer.

With each release, Alewya continues to cement herself as one of the most distinctive and vital voices reshaping contemporary global music. With ZERO, she channels years of artistic evolution into a debut that is deeply personal, spiritually charged and sonically expansive. Standing at the forefront of a new creative era defined by fearless experimentation and cultural fluidity, she steps fully into her power. Set to arrive this summer on 26th June, ZERO marks a defining moment for one of London’s most compelling contemporary artists.

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