Born in Guadeloupe and now based in London, Michelle Galas infuses her new single “Keep the Feel In”, released on October 7, with a vibrant blend of tropical and urban influences that reflect her multicultural roots. Raised in a musical family — daughter of a singer and niece of a saxophonist — Michelle began writing songs at 18, using music as a way to express joy and authenticity. Inspired by icons such as Madonna, Lady Gaga, Cher, Cyndi Lauper, Janet Jackson, and Kylie Minogue, the artist combines intricate melodies with a distinctive voice, carving out a unique space for herself in contemporary pop.
You were born in Guadeloupe and now live in London two very different cultural worlds. How does this mix of tropical and urban roots influence the way you write and feel about music?
I was born in France and grew up in Guadeloupe. Guadeloupe’s music is full of tropical sounds, and UK music is rich in diversity, blending various genres. By creating dance music, I aim to make people dance, and incorporating tropical sounds adds flavour to the dance grooves.
The title of your new single talks about “keeping the feeling in.” What emotion were you trying to preserve with this song? Is there a personal story behind it?
The emotion of love, even when everything seems tough. One day, I was sitting down, reflecting on my life of hustling—working hard, feeling tired, managing finances—and realised that in all of this, I had forgotten to think about love and what truly matters, which is life.
Growing up with a father who was a singer and an uncle who played the saxophone must have shaped your view of art. What’s the greatest lesson your family’s music has taught you?
To never give up. My uncle always played his saxophone, regardless of how he felt, and my dad may not have managed to realise his dream as a singer, but he still maintains his love for music.
You’ve mentioned using music as a form of freedom and self-expression. What does being free mean to you as an artist — especially in an industry that often tries to label people?
To be free means being able to create the music and sounds I want without adhering to rules, principles, or trends; to create even if it does not make sense to others.
Madonna, Lady Gaga, Cher, Janet Jackson… your inspirations are iconic. If you could talk to one of them today, what would you ask or tell them about their impact on your journey?
I admire their mission, work ethic, music, and brand marketing.
After “Keep the Feel In,” what can we expect from Michelle Galas next? Are there new sounds, collaborations, or experiments on the way?
I am working on new songs for 2026, so you’ll be able to Groov’WithMe.
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