Gala Rizzatto, known mononymously as Gala, is an Italian pop singer and songwriter born on September 6, 1975, in Milan, Italy. She is renowned for her contributions to the Eurodance and electronic music genres. Gala's musical journey began after she left Italy at 17 to attend art school in Boston. She later moved to New York, where she immersed herself in the city's underground art scene, capturing the vibrant life of artists and club-goers through photography. This creative environment led to the recording of her first demo, which propelled her into the music industry.

Gala's debut album, "Come into My Life," was released in 1997 and included the hit singles "Freed from Desire," "Let a Boy Cry," and "Come into My Life," which achieved multiplatinum status and topped charts across Europe, South America, Russia, and the Middle East. Her music has sold over six million records worldwide.

Throughout her career, Gala has been recognized for her distinctive minimalist style and haunting voice, earning her a reputation as a "cult artist." Despite her success, she faced challenges, including a restrictive record deal following the death of her manager, Steve Fargnoli. Seeking artistic freedom, Gala established her own label, Matriarchy Records, in Brooklyn, New York, where she continued to evolve her sound and career.

Gala's influence extends beyond music charts; her song "Freed from Desire" became a viral sports anthem, especially during the UEFA Euro 2016. She has performed at prestigious venues and events worldwide, including the Sochi Winter Olympics in 2014. Gala's enduring impact on the music scene is marked by her commitment to independence and artistic expression.