STORY OF HBB
Usama Douglah, better known as HBB (Habibi), is a DJ, producer, and full-time engineer based in Los Angeles. The name HBB, derived from the Arabic word "Habibi" meaning "my love," reflects both his cultural heritage and passion for music. Born in Baghdad, he left the Middle East at 15 to live in Tanzania and Burundi, where he completed high school.
In 2009, HBB moved to the U.S. to study at the University of Southern California, earning both undergraduate and master’s degrees in civil engineering. He now works full-time as a project manager for a Southern California industrial real estate developer, overseeing the development of large warehouses.
HBB’s musical journey began in 2016 when he borrowed a friend’s mixer and started experimenting. Inspired by Solomun’s eclectic style, he quickly realized his talent for creating memorable DJ sets, blending beats, and capturing the audience’s mood. What began as a fun hobby at house parties turned into a serious passion. HBB’s DJ sets are diverse, weaving together progressive, minimal/tech, and organic house influences. By 2024, he plans to incorporate his Middle Eastern heritage into the organic house scene. His performances, often featuring live musicians like drummers and violinists, elevate his connection with audiences.
In 2023, HBB released four original tracks, including "How I Knew" on "Strictly Records" and "Don’t Walk Away" on his own label, "HBB Records," gaining international recognition. His performances at events like Lightning in a Bottle and Sunset 2 Sunrise in 2022 demonstrated his versatility.
In 2024, HBB co-founded "Among Friends Records" with fellow DJs and producers Hicham, Charbel, and Kameni, aiming to support local LA talent and provide an outlet for artists who often sign with labels outside of the city. HBB has released several successful tracks, including "We Better Run," which made the Top 10 in the Organic House genre on Beatport, "Gayab" with Café De Anatolia, reaching the Top 48 in Organic House / Downtempo, and "Mirada" on the Among Friends Record Label, which climbed to the Top 2 in Afro House on Beatport.