Track of the Day: Shaefri - '23'

Shaefri's new single '23' is an ode to the anxieties and hurdles young adults face in today's society that pays tribute to her Arabic heritage. It'll be featured on her forthcoming EP, Girl, due July 1.

'23' is, plainly, about being 23. That period of time when you're still young, but face pressure to find stability and "get your act together" as quickly as possible. She sings words of encouragement, a reminder that everyone finds their place in the world at their own pace.

“‘23’ is a recognition of all the challenges facing our generation; we've got very little stability, whether it's where you live, your finances, your mental health, your family, your friends, your career - nothing is certain and it can be really unsettling," she says.

"Having said that, a big part of ‘23’ is also a celebration of those years and acknowledges that it's ok not to have everything together, no-one does, and that you don't need to fulfil anyone else’s expectations of how you should live your life - you're going to be fine and pursue whatever you want to - it's your life and your choice, if you stick with it, you'll get there.”

Her half-Egyptian, half-Irish heritage is at the forefront of Shaefri's music. Arabic beats blend with modern pop sounds and harmonies to create a unique sound that encompasses who she is. Her quest to capture her identity culminates in upcoming EP Girl, which addresses dark and serious topics through brightly-textured and upbeat melodies. It follows her 2017 EP Cracks, which explored the dark side of love.

Stream the song below: