Shakira encouraged one of her co-writers to become an artist, and now she’s paying homage to the Colombian pop icon. Today (Jan. 12), Puerto Rican singer-songwriter GALE released her cover of Shakira’s classic “Inevitable.”

Before becoming a rising Latine pop star, GALE was making a living co-writing other artists’ songs. She had a hand in writing for Selena Gomez’s debut Latine EP Revelación and Christina Aguilera’s 2022 self-titled album. She also helped pen hits for Anitta, Cardi B, Thalia, and recently Shakira. She co-wrote Shak’s sultry song “Copa Vacía” featuring Manuel Turizo. It was during those songwriting sessions that Shakira told GALE that she supported her crossover move to become an artist.

Shakira has continued to show love for GALE and her debut album, Lo Que No Te Dije, was released last year. Now, GALE is paying tribute to Shakira with her cover of “Inevitable.” Shakira originally released the classic in 1998 on her album Dónde Están los Ladrones? GALE keeps the angst behind Shakira’s vulnerable lyrics alive while putting her own synth-pop twist on it. There’s still a killer guitar solo in the mix as GALE sings her heart out. It’s a refreshing re-imagining of one of Latine music’s most beloved songs.

With Lo Que No Te Dije, GALE made her own mark in Latine music with her unique blend of pop, alternative, and reggaeton influences. The album included her hits like “Problemas,” “Nuestra Canción,” and “D Pic.” GALE was nominated for Best New Artist at last year’s Latin Grammy Awards. 

This year, she will be working the festival circuit. Next month, GALE will perform at Picnic Fest in Costa Rica and Vibra Urbana in Miami, FL. In March, she will hit the stages of Lollapalooza Chile, Lollapalooza Argentina, and Ceremonia and Tecate Pa’l Norte in Mexico. 

Check out the cover of “Inevitable” below.