Let a Boy Cry" is a song written and recorded by Italian singer-songwriter Gala. Released in January 1997 as the second single from her debut album, Come into My Life, the song was co-written by Gala, Filippo Andrea Carmeni, and Maurizio Molella, who also produced the track12.
The song describes a society where men are not ridiculed for their sensitivity, allowing women to be freer. It achieved significant success in Europe, receiving platinum records in France and Belgium, and peaking at number one in Belgium, France, Israel, and Italy. On the Eurochart Hot 100, "Let a Boy Cry" reached number three12.
Critically, the song received positive reviews. Music Week gave it five out of five, praising its catchiness and potential for strong radio airplay. Chris Finan from RM Dance Update rated it four out of five, predicting vigorous demand upon its UK release. Pop Rescue noted that while Gala's vocals occasionally sound flat, the song's tempo and chorus are strong points2.
The accompanying music video, directed by Philippe Antonello, Luca Bigazzi, and Gala, was shot in black-and-white in Venice during the Carnival. It features a scene with two boys kissing, which caused controversy at the time but was seen as a progressive statement by Gala12.
Overall, "Let a Boy Cry" is a notable track from Gala's discography, known for its message of acceptance and its impact on European dance music in the late 1990s