Gala Rizzatto: Italian Pop Singer’s Journey from Eurodance Stardom to Independent Artist
Milan, Italy, 10 January 2026 – Gala Rizzatto, known mononymously as Gala, is an Italian pop singer and songwriter who burst onto the international scene in the late 1990s with her debut album *Come into My Life*. Her multiplatinum singles, including “Freed from Desire”, “Let a Boy Cry”, and “Come into My Life”, reached the top of charts across Europe, South America, Russia, and the Middle East. Having sold over six million records worldwide, Gala has evolved from a Eurodance sensation to an independent artist based in Brooklyn, New York.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born on 6 September 1975 in Milan, Italy, Gala Rizzatto studied art in the United States before pursuing music. She recorded her first demo tape during her time abroad and returned to Italy, where she was voted Best Female Singer of the Year in 1996 by the magazine *Musica e Dischi*. Her early career included performances on UK television shows like BBC’s *Top of the Pops* and appearances at major venues such as Bercy Stadium in Paris and Las Ventas in Madrid.
Breakthrough with *Come into My Life*
Gala’s debut album, released on 17 November 1997, featured four singles that charted in the European Top 20. Produced by Molella and Phil Jay, “Freed from Desire” became a global anthem, earning diamond and platinum certifications in France, the UK, and beyond. The album sold over six million copies worldwide by 1998. Gala collaborated with artists like Prince’s manager Steve Fargnoli and signed with Universal Records, though she later broke her contract after his death in 2001.
Reinventing Her Sound in Brooklyn
Settling in Brooklyn in 2005, Gala redefined her career as an independent artist. She founded Matriarchy Records and released *Tough Love* in 2009, collaborating with producers like Deantoni Parks and Kevin Rudolf. The album included tracks like “I Am the World, The World Is Me”, inspired by Balkan Beat Box. Gala produced her own music videos and performed at events such as the Ethias Arena and Highline Ballroom. Her song “Freed from Desire” gained renewed popularity as a football chant at UEFA Euro 2016.
Recent Projects and Performances
In 2014, Gala headlined the Winter Olympics in Sochi and released *The Beautiful* EP. She contributed to soundtracks, including the 2018 film *Favola*, with songs like “Happiest Day of My Life”. In 2021, she released “Parallel Lines”, featuring animation by Nina Paley. Gala performed at major events, including the 2024 Summer Olympics women’s football final in Paris and the EXIT Festival opening in 2025. She continues to tour, with shows in Spain and Switzerland drawing thousands.
Key Facts and Achievements
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Birth and Nationality | Born 6 September 1975 in Milan, Italy; Italian nationality. |
| Career Highlights | Over six million records sold; Top 3 hits in multiple countries; Independent label Matriarchy Records. |
| Notable Singles | “Freed from Desire” (1996), “Let a Boy Cry” (1997), “Come into My Life” (1997), “Faraway” (2005), “Lose Yourself in Me” (2012). |
| Recent Activities | Performed at 2024 Olympics; Released “Parallel Lines” in 2021; Tours in 2017-2018 drew 20,000+ attendees. |
| Awards and Certifications | Diamond in France, Platinum in UK/Belgium/Netherlands, Gold in various regions; Nominated for Mobo Awards. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Gala’s most famous song?
Gala’s most iconic track is “Freed from Desire”, released in 1996. It topped charts in France and Belgium, earned multiple platinum certifications, and became a viral football chant.
Where does Gala live now?
Gala has lived in Brooklyn, New York, since 2005, where she established her independent label and continued her music career.
Has Gala collaborated with other artists?
Yes, she has worked with producers like Kevin Rudolf, Deantoni Parks, and Todd Terry. She also contributed to soundtracks and collaborated on songs for films like *Favola*.
What genres does Gala perform in?
Gala started in Eurodance and pop but evolved to include electro-pop, independent productions, and collaborations with world music and hip-hop elements.
Is Gala still active in music?
Yes, Gala remains active, releasing new singles, performing at festivals, and touring internationally, including recent appearances at major sporting events.