Who is Ghali, really? This is the question that industry insiders, fans, and casual listeners have been asking themselves over the years to understand the musical evolution of this artist from Milan's Baggio district.
With his unique style blending rap, trap, and international sounds, Ghali has masterfully told both his personal story and that of a multicultural generation. Few know that his first artistic name in 2010 was "Fobia", which he later abandoned for his current moniker. The turning point in his career—and for a "new generation" of Italian music—came in 2016 with the emergence of trap music in Milan's streets and beyond.
His single "Ninna Nanna" became a viral phenomenon through Spotify distribution. This track wasn't just a commercial success; it was a statement of intent: Ghali was ready to change the rules of the game.
His first official album, simply titled "Album", soon followed. The artist explored personal themes such as identity, cultural roots, and racism while maintaining an optimistic tone. His ability to alternate between infectious rhythms and profound lyrics immediately set him apart from his peers. "Album" wasn't just a sales success; it was a cultural manifesto celebrating diversity and multiculturalism in Italy.
After a three-year break, he released his second album "DNA" in 2020. International influences became even more evident, with collaborations including world-famous artists like Ed Sheeran and innovative producers. "DNA" pushed beyond the boundaries of Italian rap, incorporating elements of pop, electronic, and Arabic sounds.
His latest project, "Pizza Kebab Vol.1" (2023), featured collaborations with many of his close friends, including Geolier, Luchè, and other prominent names in the Italian music scene.
Following his success at Sanremo 2024, he's now preparing for a new album while touring Italian arenas. On Friday, November 15, he returned home to Milan's Unipol Arena, delivering an intense, sophisticated concert that was intimate despite its grandeur. He performed all his celebrated tracks, leaving the audience breathless. The tour continues with new dates, and he has already announced a special show titled "Gran Teatro" at the Milan Fair on September 20, 2025.
His musical influences are clearly discernible, ranging from Michael Jackson to Stromae, not forgetting major American rappers. Ghali guides his audience, attempting to educate them about musical diversity, different sounds, and the beauty of creating without preconceptions or labels.
He has stated that he's uncertain when he'll release his next album, citing concerns about how modern music consumption diminishes studio work, with many albums releasing only to be reduced to a few singles. He envisions a broader project, aiming to showcase his diversity and his studio freedom—from pop to rap, from melody to boom bap.
Ghali is more than a singer; he's a symbol of cultural change in Italy. His music is the soundtrack of an evolving country, uniting tradition and modernity, roots and innovation.
The answer to "Who is Ghali?" cannot be contained in a few words. Ghali is music itself.
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Special thanks to Goigest & Vivo Concerti
Michele Favale
Michele Favale is a Social Media Manager and a big music fan. After working and studying around Italy, he now lives and works in Lecce, but is always ready to travel. His passion for music has led him to be passionate about every genre with a predilection for the black world. A DJ by passion and opportunity, he is always ready to discover new music and share it with everyone.
@mikefavale12