Lebanese-Canadian singer-songwriter Raphaela unveils her emotionally complex new single, “Leave Him First,” a cinematic and empowering pop track that flips the script on betrayal and heartbreak.

What begins as a classic story of romantic infidelity quickly becomes something more nuanced and powerful: a conversation between two women who unknowingly shared the same partner. But instead of revenge, Raphaela offers empathy. In “Leave Him First,” the narrator speaks not to the man who broke her heart, but to the girl he cheated with – encouraging her to reclaim her worth before it’s too late.

The track’s delicate balance of melancholic vulnerability and quiet strength is what makes it unforgettable. It’s a reflection of Raphaela‘s unique perspective – choosing compassion over conflict, solidarity over spite.

What can you share with readers about your new project?

Leave Him First” is the single I’m most proud of to date from a storytelling perspective. The concept went through a real journey before I landed on the idea of addressing the girl the ex cheats with, rather than confronting the ex himself — which is usually the angle songs about cheating take. It’s written for anyone who’s ever found themselves in a relationship where there’s one person too many, or where something just doesn’t feel right. I also really wrestled with finding the right lyrics and story arc to express a sense of empathy and solidarity with the other girl — and to encourage her to walk away before he does the same thing to her. I love that it flips the script on heartbreak and, by the end, reveals something more empowering than you might expect when the song first starts. 

How does this release compare with your other projects you had in the past?

This one is definitely bolder. Sonically and lyrically, it’s more direct and unapologetic than anything I’ve released before. My earlier songs leaned more into the dreamy, nostalgic side of love — this one still holds that emotional depth, but with a sharper edge. I think it reflects the growth I’ve experienced, both personally and as an artist.

What about this single makes you most proud?

I love how bold and direct it is — that it doesn’t hold back, while still carrying empathy for the other girl in the story. There’s a raw honesty to it, but it’s the kind of honesty that comes from a place of care. I wanted it to feel like, “Here’s what I went through — maybe this can help you avoid the same kind of pain.” It’s like passing on a hard-earned lesson to someone who still has time to choose differently.

Was there a specific goal you were trying to accomplish with this release?

Yes — I wanted to speak to people who are struggling to leave something that no longer serves them. There’s a lot of shame around “being the other girl” or staying too long in a relationship you know isn’t right. I wanted this song to cut through that and offer compassion, strength, and maybe even a sense of closure.

What inspires you to create music? What motivates you to keep going?

It’s the need to tell a story and make sense of emotions. Even when the songs aren’t fully autobiographical, they’re always rooted in a feeling I’ve experienced. Sometimes that feeling evolves into a story that’s closely tied to my own life, and other times it becomes something more imaginative. On my upcoming EP, I have a song inspired by something I went through ten years ago — I hadn’t processed it through music at the time, but a dream recently brought it back, and it turned into a song that ended up making the cut. What keeps me going is the belief that our stories — no matter how messy, tender, or complicated — are worth telling. Music gives them a place to land.

If you could collaborate with anyone – dead or alive, famous or unknown – who would it be and why?

I’d love to collaborate with Gracie Abrams. Her songwriting is so intimate and vulnerable — I feel like our styles would really complement each other.

What was the last song you listened to? Favorite all-time bands/artists?

The last song I listened to was Bye Bye Bye by Dasha. My all-time favorite artist is Taylor Swift — the master storyteller herself.

Where is the best place to find you and stay connected?

You can find me on Instagram and TikTok @itsraphaelaofficial — that’s where I share lyrics, behind-the-scenes moments, and little pieces of my world. You can also stay updated at raphaelaofficial.com.

I really appreciate your time. Is there anything you’d like to share before we sign off?

Thank you so much for having me — it truly means a lot. If you’re someone who feels deeply, loves hard, and is trying to find your way back to yourself, you’re not alone. That’s who I write for. And I’m really grateful you’re here.