Husam Says He’s ‘Gotchu’ No Matter What

On November 6, D.C.-based Syrian American alternative rock artist, Husam, released his latest single, “Gotchu.” The upbeat anthem is powerful in its simplicity, marking a departure from the rising talent’s recent singles in terms of tone. In a world that can feel cold and solitary, “Gotchu” carries a timely reminder: you are not alone.

“This is a love song I wrote about someone who was having issues with family and friends,” Husam explained. “There is something deep about telling someone to their face that you have their back no matter what, and to reassure them of that.”

“Gotchu” reads like a love letter to the person who needs an uplifting word the most, offering a space where there is no judgment, only genuine concern. “When your friends and your family fail you / I will always be the one who’s there for you / When the rain comes / And the tears run / Don’t you worry babe,” Husam sings.

From the opening mellow, shimmery guitar riff, “Gotchu” carries a different energy than Husam’s recent releases, including “I’ll Destroy You,” “Harm’s Way,” and “Chosen One.” Melancholy is replaced with nostalgia, and there is a positive, slow dance quality to the track that envelops listeners like a warm embrace. The use of piano as a foundational element of the lush composition, in addition to the delicate textures and vocalizations, are especially noteworthy.

Lyrically, “Gotchu” favors repetition, and fittingly so. “You know I gotchu / Gotchu, right / You know I gotchu / If ever you can’t get through the night / You know I gotchu / Right,” Husam sings in the chorus, as if he’s bestowing an affirmation. The repetition is intentional for emphasis, reflective of the kind of reinforcement that we need when we’re unsure whether we have the strength to make it.

Often, when someone who we care about is going through, we say to them, “let me know if you need anything.” Somehow, the blanket nature of the statement renders the well-meaning invitation ineffective. The use of a direct interrogative in “Gotchu” displays sincerity. Specifically, the question – “right?” – prompts the individual at the other end of the inquiry to respond with an affirmative and confident, “yes.”

With each release, Husam demonstrates why he is an impressive emerging artist to watch (and one of my personal favorites). His artistic versatility and signature sound are immediately mesmerizing in an otherworldly way. Beyond his musical distinction, Husam’s work serves a larger purpose. It is healing, creating belonging and solace for individuals who are harmed, wronged, forgotten, hopeless, or otherwise marginalized. 

At the core of “Gotchu” is a message of comfort. When it feels like it’s you against the world, always remember that someone is in your corner. Listen to “Gotchu” below, and stay tuned for Husam’s lineup of upcoming releases, which include at least one new song every month through the end of the year. Find more great music on the Alchemical Records Multigenre Mixture playlist on Spotify.