Julia Michaels Reclaims Her Sound and Story: Independence Ignites a New Era for the Pop Star
After seven transformative years with a major label, the “Issues” singer opens up about launching GFY Records, her vibrant new releases, and a life-changing engagement.
LAS VEGAS, NV – September 20, 2025 – On the vibrant stage of the iHeartRadio Music Festival, before an electrifying crowd of thousands at the T-Mobile Arena, singer-songwriter Julia Michaels, 31, exuded an undeniable sense of liberation. The acclaimed artist, known for hits like “Issues,” spoke exclusively to PEOPLE about a pivotal decision made in 2024: her departure from Republic Records after a seven-year tenure to establish her own independent label, GFY Records. This bold move, she reveals, has ushered in an era of unprecedented creative freedom, revitalizing both her artistic output and personal life.
“It feels amazing. I started my label last year, and it just feels really great to be able to have creative control, creative freedom, to be able to take my power back,” Michaels shared, her voice brimming with renewed energy. Her journey into independence marks a significant shift in an industry where artists often grapple with creative limitations under major labels. For Michaels, the transition has been nothing short of “life-changing,” allowing her to reconnect with the core of her passion. “I get to release songs again. I get to make music videos again. I get to see my fans again, perform again,” she elaborated, highlighting the tangible benefits of her newfound autonomy.
The decision stemmed from a profound sense of stagnation. “I just felt like I was stuck on a label where there were maybe bigger priorities than me,” Michaels confessed, offering a candid glimpse into the challenges faced even by established artists. “It’s really hard to get people to believe in you sometimes, and then in turn you start to not believe in yourself.” The struggle, she explained, had even dampened her desire to create. “It took being able to leave my label for me to want to put music out again.” This sentiment resonates with a growing number of artists seeking direct engagement with their audience and unbridled artistic expression.
Since launching GFY Records, Michaels has rapidly showcased the fruits of her independence. Just yesterday, on September 19, she unveiled her poignant new single, “No Heartbreak’s Killed Me Yet,” accompanied by a compelling music video filmed amidst the bustling streets of New York City. This release follows her highly anticipated May 2025 EP, Second Self, which offered fans a fresh collection of tracks underscoring her evolving sound and lyrical depth.
Beyond her professional renaissance, Michaels’ life has also been enriched by a significant personal milestone. Earlier this year, on April 25, she announced her engagement to renowned tattoo artist Mat Rule. Sharing an intimate Instagram post featuring a close-up of her elegant oval-shaped diamond ring set on a gold band, Michaels captioned the joyous news, “Yes to you forever and always. Thank you for being the most incredible man I’ve ever met. I can’t wait to marry you.” While the wedding plans remain under wraps, Michaels has indicated it will be “nothing like crazy,” reflecting a desire for authenticity over extravagance, much like her approach to her music career.
As Julia Michaels steps firmly into this new chapter, armed with creative control, a burgeoning independent label, and a loving fiancé, she stands as a powerful example of an artist forging her own path, proving that taking a leap of faith can indeed lead to exactly where one wants to be.
