Following her appearance at this year’s International Literature Festival in Dublin and a national tour supporting Jools Holland and his Band, singer-songwriter Galia Arad returns with new single ‘That Was That’ – her fourth single with budding new Irish label Rubarb Music.
‘That Was That’ is a personal pop ballad that pairs vivid, narrative-driven songwriting with powerful, soaring choruses. With the confessional storytelling of Taylor Swift and the cinematic vocal intensity of Sia, the song moves through the stunning heartbreak of being abandoned by someone who once made you feel safe (aka “the avoidant discard”).
Co-produced with Ruadhri Cushnan (Mumford and Sons, Ed Sheeran, Shawn Mendes), ‘That Was That’ unfolds in three emotional chapters – the calm before the storm, the storm itself, and the haunting silence left in its wake.
Based in Ireland but hailing originally from the U.S., Galia’s transatlantic perspective lends a unique flavour to her songwriting: warm, and unafraid to sit with vulnerability.
Her growing audience in Ireland and abroad continues to connect with her blend of lyrical honesty, pop textures, and indie-folk heart, with this single marking an exciting new chapter in her evolving sound.
Galia has gained strong industry recognition and support, securing management with Paul Loasby (David Gilmour) quoted as saying, “When Galia Arad first appeared supporting Jools Holland, I was bowled over by her natural entertainment charisma, with an easy ability to engage the audience. An all-round great performer and songwriter.”
Alongside her work as a recording artist, Galia works with young people at Oberstown Juvenile Detention Centre, using music and songwriting workshops to encourage self expression and connection.
She is also developing a career in film music having recently contributed to the original score of a forthcoming feature film, highlighting her growing work as both a songwriter and composer.