At the Opening Ceremony of the Winter Olympics 2026, Italian rapper Ghali took to the stage and drew attention with his performance. The appearance sparked interest in the artist, his background, and rise in Italy’s music scene. Clips and reactions quickly spread on social media, making him one of the ceremony’s most talked-about moments
Who is Ghali?
Ghali, born as Ghali Amdouni in 1993, is regarded as one of the most influential figures in contemporary Italian music. He recently gained global attention after performing at the Opening Ceremony of the Winter Olympics 2026. A major youth icon, Ghali commands a massive following across social media platforms. Known for challenging musical norms and cultural expectations, his work often attracts both praise and controversy.
Winter Olympics 2026: 5 Things You Didn’t Know About Ghali
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Ghali’s Journey: From Group Projects to Becoming a Successful Solo Rapper in Italy
Beginning his music career by working within group and collective projects, Ghali experimented with rap styles and built his early audience. These initial years helped him understand the industry and develop his lyrical voice.
His breakthrough came when he shifted focus to a solo career, releasing tracks that quickly gained popularity online. As a solo artist, Ghali found wider recognition, chart success, and mainstream appeal, which established him as a key figure in Italy’s contemporary rap and pop-rap scene.
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Is Ghali Italian or Tunisian? How His Background Shapes His Music and Identity
Born in Italy to Tunisian parents, Ghali has often spoken about living between cultures. While he is Italian by nationality, his Tunisian roots play an important role in shaping his identity and artistic expression. This dual background frequently appears in his music, visuals, and public statements.
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Ghali’s Passion for Fashion: His Influence on Italian Youth Style Trends
Beyond music, Ghali is widely recognised for his strong interest in fashion and personal style. Known for bold, experimental looks, he often blends streetwear with high-fashion, helping shape youth style trends in Italy. Ghali credits his mother for nurturing his early love for clothing and has described fashion as integral to his performances.
“Clothes are part of the performance itself,” he told Enfnts Terribles magazine, comparing stage outfits to “an armour or a second skin.” Through brand collaborations and appearances at major fashion events, he has emerged as a crossover figure linking music, fashion, and pop culture.
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Why do Ghali’s Public Statements and Social Views Often Spark National Debate?
Ghali has also spoken openly about political issues. His lyrics often explore themes of identity, belonging and coexistence. In recent years, he has expressed support for Palestine through social media posts, interviews, and public appearances. While many fans have backed his stance, his comments have also sparked criticism in Italy, where the issue remains sensitive. His views have often pushed him into wider public debates, making headlines beyond the music world.
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How did Ghali Rise to Mainstream Fame and Became a Leading Voice in Italian Music?
Ghali’s rise to mainstream fame has been driven by chart-topping singles, strong streaming numbers, and a loyal fan base. His ability to mix rap with pop-friendly sounds helped him reach audiences beyond traditional hip-hop listeners.
His popularity has been boosted by consistent releases, memorable visuals, and a strong online presence. Over the years, Ghali has transitioned from an underground artist to a household name, becoming one of the most recognisable and influential voices in Italian pop-rap music today.
