Zef

About

Lebanese singer, songwriter, and producer known for blending Arabic pop with indie and alternative influences, for his hit 2022 single "El Bekle," and for the songs "Sofon El Bahara," "Tlef El Dunya," "Nisan," "Masref Ahlam," "Ma Btehrez," "Aa Asas," "Awal Kelmi," "Biso," "Shem Wroud," and "Leish Baddi Eb'a."

Before fame

He started out as a busker and small-venue performer writing songs influenced by pop, nostalgia, and everyday life. He studied advertising and communication and worked a design job originally, but decided to walk away from a planned master's degree to pursue music. He began releasing original music in 2019 , including songs such as "Chi Nhar," "Sofon El Bahara," "Leish Baddi Eb'a," and "Shem Wroud." His big break came after he released his song "El Bekle" in 2022.

Trivia

He is an avid surfer, free diver, and ocean lover, and a lot of his music is inspired by the Mediterranean Sea. He has brought his songs to live platforms such as Sofar Beirut, Shuruq Sessions at Station Beirut, and Visa For Music in Morocco, where he made his first appearance on a North African festival stage in 2022.

Family life

His real name is Joseph Abboud. He was born and raised in Byblos, Lebanon. He and Stephanie Atala announced their engagement in 2025.

Associated with

He appeared on the 963 Podcast in 2022 which has also hosted Maro and Mishaal Tamer.