Gal Costa - India Gal Costa

“If I know how to love, it's because of her. If I know how to smile and dance, it's because of her. If I can sing, it was Gal who taught me.” Dora Morelenbaum, 2022.


Without question, Gal Gosta is one of the all-time greats. An inspirational, iconic figurehead in Brazilian music, her outstanding career ran from 1967 up until 2022 when we sadly lost her. Making her mark initially as one of the principal figures in the Tropicália movement of the 60s, she remained a trailblazing beacon that lit the way for decades to come. Gal continued to record and play live throughout her life, influencing and collaborating with the current cream of the Brazilian music world, such as Zé Ibarra, Rubel and Tim Bernardes.

‘India’ is a post-Tropicália masterpiece that was originally released in 1973 on the Philips record label. It features a stellar line-up of musicians including Gilberto Gil, Arthur Verocai, Dominguinhos, Rogério Duprat and Tenorio Jr. amongst others.

The album’s iconic, controversial cover art was banned by the Brazilian military dictatorship upon its release, which resulted in it being covered up and wrapped in a blue plastic bag when sold in record shops. It is one of Gal's strongest albums, consistently exceptional throughout and the perfect starting point for those unfamiliar with her rich catalogue. It includes the incredible ’Pontos De Luz’, one of our favourite Brazilian songs of all time, and famously sampled by Kaytranada on ’Lite Spots’. There’s also the accordion-led scorcher 'Relance’, which still rocks discerning dancefloors to this day. A wonderful album from start to finish, touching on MPB, folk, jazz, funk and rock with strong Tropicália and Nordestino influences throughout.

RIP Gal Maria da Graça Penna Burgos Costa, your light shines on.