multidisciplinary Sudanese-American artist Dua Saleh (they/them) shares their new single “pussy suicide” from their highly anticipated debut album, I SHOULD CALL THEM, out October 11th via Ghostly International. Contemplative and rousing in nature, the track sees Dua examining the deeply complex nature of romantic relationships and the particularly daunting toxic elements that can persist. Flanked by a looping guitar riff and moody trap beat, their delivery adopts different pitches, from low, morphing drawls to high-register raps. It’s another display of Saleh’s staggering prowess as a singer, songwriter, and sonic architect.
 
The single gives the final glimpse into I SHOULD CALL THEM, which houses a collection of R&B-infused electronic indie-pop songs that portray the spiritual power, resilience, and joy of love found between two star-crossed lovers. Equal parts imaginative and lived-through, it's a statement record only Saleh could make.
 
The album features striking collaborations with Gallant, serpentwithfeet, Sid Sriram, and Ambré and production contributions from highly acclaimed Grammy nominated producers such as Rogét Chahayed (Travis Scott, Jack Harlow, Khalid, Doja Cat), Biako (Fousheé, Yuna, Jean Dawson), Stint (Carly Rae Jepsen, Kesha), and 1Mind (Juice WRLD, Don Toliver, Lil Yachty). It serves as Saleh's first body of work since their contribution as a co-writer for Travis Scott’sUTOPIA track ‘MY EYES’ (alongside Justin Vernon and Sampha), returning to their breakout role in the Netflix series Sex Education, and taking the cover of GAY TIMES as their 2023 Rising Star in Music honour recipient. Here Saleh shapes their most vulnerable work to date, an apocalyptic narrative informed by environmental anxieties and their experiences as a lover, holding personal truth and hope amidst chaos.
 
“Sometimes people won’t admit that they’re toxic. This is a song about being with somebody who was previously toxic that makes you question their actions. When you stay with this person, you’re feeding the fire because you feel uncomfortable with the dynamics. I was trying to not pursue those feelings, but had difficulty moving on. Eventually, I learned to have more respect for myself.” - Dua Saleh.