Diodato
Antonio Diodato (born 30 August 1981) is an Italian singer-songwriter known for his introspective lyrics exploring themes of love, identity, and emotion, and for winning the Sanremo Music Festival in 2020 with the song "Fai rumore," which was selected to represent Italy at the Eurovision Song Contest before its cancellation due to the COVID-19 pandemic.[1][2] Born in Aosta in northern Italy, Diodato spent much of his early life in Taranto in the south after his family relocated for work, where he developed an interest in music influenced by his surroundings and personal experiences.[3] He later moved to Rome to study at the Dams film school, while taking guitar and violin lessons, marking the beginning of his artistic pursuits that blended songwriting with occasional acting, including a role in the 2019 film Un'avventura.[1] His career gained momentum with the release of his debut EP in 2007, followed by his breakthrough studio album E forse sono pazzo in 2013, which was reissued the next year after his strong performance at Sanremo as a newcomer, where he placed second with "Babilonia" and won the MTV Italia Award for Best New Generation.[3][4] Diodato's subsequent albums, including Cosa siamo diventati (2017), Che vita meravigliosa (2020), and Così speciale (2023), showcased his evolving style, with the latter featuring the chart-topping "Fai rumore," which also earned him the Critics' Award and Press Room Award at Sanremo.[4][1][5] He returned to the festival in 2018, finishing eighth with "Adesso" in collaboration with Roy Paci, and again in 2024 with "Ti muovi," placing fourth in a competition ultimately won by Angelina Mango.[3][6] Beyond music, Diodato has released live recordings like Ho acceso un fuoco (2024) and contributed to soundtracks, solidifying his status as a prominent figure in contemporary Italian pop.[4] In his personal life, he was in a relationship with singer Levante from 2017 to 2019, to whom he dedicated the song "Antonio," and has been with actress Greta Zuccoli since 2020.[3]Early life
Upbringing and family
Antonio Diodato was born on August 30, 1981, in Aosta, Italy, to parents of southern Italian origin; his father, Vincenzo, hailed from Salerno in Campania, while his mother, Dora, was from Taranto in Apulia.[7][8] The family, with Vincenzo working as a traveling clothing merchant who set up temporary shops, led a nomadic life, relocating frequently across Italy due to his profession.[9][8] Dora, a homemaker, provided stability amid these changes, though the constant upheaval—from places like Santa Croce sull’Arno in Tuscany, Noicattaro near Bari, Padova in Veneto, Brindisi in Apulia, and Montecatini in Tuscany—left a lasting impact on Diodato's early years.[9][8] The family eventually settled for an extended period in Taranto during his childhood, where Diodato spent formative years immersed in the southern Italian environment of his mother's roots.[9][10] This shift from northern birth to southern upbringing fostered a dual cultural identity, blending the transient northern experiences with the rich traditions of Apulia, including exposure to local folk music and community life in Taranto that echoed his family's southern heritage.[7][9] The frequent moves, however, caused emotional strain, with Diodato later recalling annual relocations as a source of suffering that heightened his sensitivity and prompted him to develop protective emotional mechanisms from a young age.[8][9] In Taranto, everyday anecdotes from his youth—such as navigating the city's vibrant streets and forming early bonds with local friends—highlighted a growing curiosity for artistic expression amid the industrial and cultural backdrop of the region.[9]Education and influences
Diodato attended the Liceo Ginnasio Statale Aristosseno in Taranto from 1996 to 2000, where he developed an early interest in music through informal performances, including concerts in the school gymnasium.[11] Following his high school graduation around age 18, he relocated to Rome to pursue higher education.[12] There, he enrolled in the DAMS program at the University of Roma Tre, earning a degree in cinema, television, and new media on April 12, 2007.[13][14] His university studies immersed him in the analysis and production of visual media, fostering a foundational understanding of storytelling through film and television that would later inform his multifaceted artistic pursuits, including acting.[14] This academic background complemented his growing musical inclinations, blending narrative techniques from cinema with songwriting. Among Diodato's primary musical influences are Pink Floyd, Fabrizio De André, Luigi Tenco, Domenico Modugno, and Radiohead, which collectively shaped his introspective, genre-blending style.[15] De André, in particular, profoundly impacted his approach to lyrics, teaching him to craft delicate yet incisive words and encouraging deeper engagement with songwriting beyond the pop and rock structures he initially explored.[16][17] Similarly, Tenco and Modugno contributed to his appreciation for the Italian cantautori tradition, emphasizing emotional depth and melodic expressiveness in personal narratives. Radiohead's influence manifests in his incorporation of melancholic, crepuscular electronic elements, adding atmospheric layers to his Mediterranean-rooted sound.[18] Pink Floyd's progressive experimentation further informed his willingness to mix genres and explore warm, band-oriented arrangements.[19]Musical career
Early releases (2010–2013)
After graduating from the DAMS program at Roma Tre University in 2007, Antonio Diodato remained in Rome to develop his early musical projects, initially forming a band and producing self-recorded demos that captured his personal experiences and emotional introspection. These efforts laid the groundwork for his independent entry into the Italian music scene, drawing from influences like British rock bands such as Pink Floyd while experimenting with acoustic arrangements.[20] In 2010, Diodato released his first notable single, "Ancora un brivido," produced in collaboration with Daniele Tortora, which achieved modest success within indie circles by securing airplay on smaller Italian radio stations and music television channels. This track marked a pivotal step, showcasing his raw vocal style and rock-tinged songwriting, and helped build momentum toward broader recognition.[21][22] By 2013, Diodato had signed with the independent label Le Narcisse, leading to the release of his debut album E forse sono pazzo on April 26. The album comprises 11 tracks, including "Mi fai morire," "Ubriaco," "Ma che vuoi," the title song "E forse sono pazzo," "I miei demoni," "Panico," "Capello bianco," and "Patologia," with themes centered on introspection, emotional turmoil, confusion, and personal struggles reflective of his twenties. Recorded with Tortora's production, it blended electric and acoustic elements, evolving from his earlier rock influences toward a more intimate, narrative-driven cantautore approach inspired by Italian artists like Fabrizio De André and Luigi Tenco.[23][24] The album received positive initial reception in indie music communities, earning Diodato the Deezer Best Artist of the Year award at the 2013 Medimex festival in Bari for its authentic pathos and vocal power. He began performing live in small Rome venues like Angelo Mai, an alternative cultural hub, where solo guitar-and-voice sets allowed him to refine his connection with audiences through raw, unpolished deliveries. These early shows, including occasional wedding gigs with his initial band, highlighted his stylistic shift but also underscored challenges such as perfectionism and self-doubt, which had delayed his full debut for nearly a decade as he sought to authentically express his story.[24][25]Sanremo debuts and rise (2014–2019)
Diodato made his debut at the Sanremo Music Festival in 2014, competing in the Nuova Proposte category with the song "Babilonia," where he secured second place.[26] This performance marked a significant breakthrough, elevating his profile in the Italian music scene following the release of his debut studio album E forse sono pazzo in April 2013 under Le Narcisse Records and Goodfellas.[22] The album, featuring introspective tracks blending alternative rock and pop influences, gained renewed momentum through the festival exposure, allowing Diodato to tour and connect with a broader audience while honing his raw, emotional songwriting style. Building on this momentum, Diodato released his second album, A ritrovar bellezza, in October 2014 via Le Narcisse and RCA/Sony Music. This project served as a tribute to Italian music from the 1960s, reinterpreting ten classic songs to rediscover their beauty and timeless appeal.[27] The album showcased his interpretive depth and vocal maturity, receiving attention for its respectful yet innovative covers, which further established him as a thoughtful artist bridging generations in the Italian pop-rock landscape. In 2016, Diodato signed with Carosello Records, a move that expanded his reach and production resources.[28] This partnership led to the release of his third studio album, Cosa siamo diventati, on January 27, 2017. The record delves into themes of personal fragility, relational complexities, and identity, presenting a cathartic narrative of human vulnerability through a mix of pop, rock, and auteur influences.[29] Critics praised its emotional authenticity and musical balance, with standout tracks like "Uomo fragile" and "La luce di questa stanza" highlighting Diodato's growth; Rockol awarded it 7/10 for its raw intensity and refined composition, while Mescalina hailed it as one of 2017's finest albums for its intimate exploration of life's shadows and lights.[29][30] Diodato returned to the Sanremo Festival in 2018, this time in the Campioni (Big Artists) category, collaborating with trumpeter Roy Paci on "Adesso." The upbeat track, emphasizing connection and presence amid modern distractions, earned them eighth place in the final standings.[1] This appearance, coupled with the Mia Martini Critics' Award win for the song, boosted his visibility and solidified his rising status in mainstream Italian music during the mid-2010s.2020 breakthrough and Eurovision
In 2020, Diodato achieved a major breakthrough by winning the 70th edition of the Sanremo Music Festival on 8 February with his song "Fai rumore", a poignant ballad co-written with Edwyn Roberts that explores themes of emotional vulnerability and the need to break silence in relationships.[1] The victory was determined by a combination of public televoting (34%), press jury (33%), and demoscopic jury (33%), where Diodato topped the final standings among 24 entrants in the Big category, outperforming Francesco Gabbani and Pinguini Tattici Nucleari.[31] He also secured the Critics' Award and Press Award during the event, reflecting strong acclaim for the song's introspective lyrics and soulful delivery.[1] This win marked his third Sanremo participation and propelled "Fai rumore" to number one on the Italian Singles Chart upon release on 7 February.[31] The success of "Fai rumore" coincided with the release of Diodato's fourth studio album, Che vita meravigliosa, on 14 February via Carosello Records, which debuted and peaked at number four on the Italian Albums Chart.[28] The album, featuring the Sanremo entry alongside tracks like the title song used in Ferzan Özpetek's film La dea fortuna, delves into personal introspection and resilience, themes that resonated deeply as Italy faced the emerging COVID-19 pandemic shortly after its launch.[28] Certified platinum by FIMI for over 50,000 units sold, the record underscored Diodato's rising prominence amid national challenges.[32] As the Sanremo winner, Diodato was internally selected by RAI to represent Italy at the Eurovision Song Contest 2020 in Rotterdam with "Fai rumore", a choice he had confirmed in advance.[31] The song was anticipated for a dramatic staging emphasizing its emotional intensity, though specific details were limited before the event's cancellation on 18 March due to the escalating COVID-19 crisis.[1] In the immediate aftermath, Diodato delivered a striking virtual performance of "Fai rumore" from the empty Arena di Verona during the Eurovision replacement show Europe Shine a Light on 16 May, broadcast across Europe and viewed by millions.[1] The track gained international media attention, including coverage by BBC and The Telegraph, and became an unofficial anthem in Italy, with citizens singing it from balconies during lockdown to foster unity and hope.[33][34]2021–present developments
Following his 2020 success at Sanremo and Eurovision, Diodato resumed releasing new music with the single "Se mi vuoi" in November 2022, a soulful track that signaled his return to recording after a period focused on live performances and personal reflection.[35] The song explored themes of longing and connection, receiving positive reception for its emotional depth. In 2023, he issued his fifth studio album, Così speciale, which featured 10 tracks blending introspective lyrics with raw, authentic pop arrangements, earning acclaim for its elegant vulnerability.[36] In April 2024, Diodato released the live album Ho acceso un fuoco (Live Studio Session), recorded in a single take at the historic Officine Meccaniche studio in Milan. The project captured the vibrant, unfiltered energy of live performance, reinterpreting seven classics alongside new material in an intimate setting that evoked a sense of communal revival after years of restricted gatherings.[37] This release underscored his commitment to the immediacy of music-making, with the album's flowing structure creating a "potent stream of vibrations" for listeners.[4] Diodato returned to the Sanremo Music Festival in 2024 with "Ti muovi," a poignant entry co-written with Rodrigo D'Erasmo that delved into inner turmoil and the stirrings of unresolved emotions. The song's theme centered on subtle movements within the self—symbolizing personal transformation and the risk of past pains resurfacing—delivered through sweeping melodies and a sinuous stage performance featuring dance elements.[38] It placed fourth in the final classification out of 30 competitors, based on combined jury, press, and televote results.[39] Building on this momentum, Diodato issued a series of singles from 2024 to 2025, each accompanied by distinctive videoclips. "Molto amore," released in June 2024, emerged from his Brazilian tour and featured footage from Rio de Janeiro, infusing the track with sun-soaked, international vibrancy that celebrated fleeting connections.[40] In October 2024, "Un Atto Di Rivoluzione" followed, its official video a hand-drawn animated piece by artist C.O.S.B.R.U. that visualized themes of personal rebellion and change through striking graphics.[41] The 2025 single "Non ci credo più," a bold declaration against fear-driven narratives, arrived in April with an official video emphasizing raw expression and resilience.[4] In March 2025, Diodato announced Tour Estate 2025, a summer outing emphasizing reconnection through immersive live experiences, kicking off with the Mi Ami Festival in Milan on May 24, followed by Trento Music Arena on June 27, Susa on June 28, and culminating in Rome's Auditorium Parco della Musica - Cavea on September 11.[42] The tour highlighted his evolution toward expansive, audience-engaged shows that foster emotional bonds in post-isolation times.Other artistic pursuits
Acting roles
Diodato made his acting debut in 2019 in the romantic drama Un'avventura, directed by Marco Danieli. In the film, which explores themes of love and personal growth set against the backdrop of Lucio Battisti's music, he portrayed a record producer, a role that allowed him to draw on his real-life experiences in the music industry. This opportunity tied directly to his educational background in cinema, as he had graduated from the DAMS program at Roma Tre University with a focus on cinema, television, and new media.[43][44][45] In 2022, Diodato took on a supporting role in Diabolik: Ginko Attacks!, the second film in the Manetti Bros.' adaptation of the iconic Italian comic series. He appeared as himself, performing as the singer at the Armen's nightclub in a scene that blended his musical performance with the film's stylish crime thriller elements. This cameo highlighted his versatility as an artist bridging music and screen performance.[46][47]Collaborations and media appearances
Diodato has frequently appeared as a guest on prominent Italian television programs following his 2020 Sanremo victory, engaging in interviews and performances that highlight his career trajectory and personal insights. On Che tempo che fa, hosted by Fabio Fazio, he made notable appearances in March 2020 to discuss his Sanremo win and Eurovision participation, in November 2020 to reflect on the year's challenges, in March 2023 to promote his album Così speciale with a live rendition of the title track, and in April 2024 to perform "Ti muovi" ahead of Sanremo.[48][49][50][51] He also featured on Viva Rai2!, appearing as a performer in 2022 and as a guest in April 2023 and February 2024, where he collaborated with host Fiorello on segments tied to Sanremo promotions.[52][53][54] Beyond television, Diodato has engaged in select brand collaborations, notably an ongoing partnership with the luxury fashion house Zegna, including his wardrobe during the 2024 Sanremo Festival and attendance at their Milan Menswear Fall/Winter 2025-2026 fashion show in January 2025, embodying the brand's "quiet luxury" aesthetic through tailored suits and minimalist designs that complemented his stage presence.[55][56] These endorsements underscore his growing influence in Italian cultural spheres, blending music with high-end fashion without extending to full-scale advertising campaigns. Diodato's media presence extends to discussions of his creative process in various formats, particularly after his Eurovision spotlight, where he has shared insights into songwriting and artistic evolution through interviews and features. For instance, in post-Eurovision profiles, he has elaborated on the introspective themes driving his work, emphasizing vulnerability and emotional authenticity as core to his method.[1] His international exposure has expanded through promotional activities for tours and festival appearances in 2024 and 2025. In spring 2024, Diodato undertook his first tour outside Europe, performing in Brazilian cities such as Porto Alegre and Curitiba, which he promoted via social media and interviews to connect with Latin American audiences. The tour was a success, with sold-out double dates in Curitiba and performances in Rio de Janeiro and Jundiaí, and it inspired his single "Molto amore," released on June 28, 2024.[57][58][59] In 2025, he participated in European events, including a headline slot at the Locus Festival in Ostuni, Italy, on August 2, as part of a broader summer tour that highlighted his live performance style across the continent.[60]Discography
Studio albums
Diodato's debut studio album, E forse sono pazzo, released on April 26, 2013, by Le Narcisse, marked his entry into the Italian music scene with a blend of rock and folk influences that highlighted his raw vocal style and introspective songwriting.[61] The album explores themes of emotional chaos, personal demons, and fleeting relationships, capturing the vulnerability of youth through 10 original tracks that showcase his emerging talent. Key highlights include the title track "E forse sono pazzo," a haunting reflection on inner turmoil, and "Mi fai morire," an energetic opener that sets the tone for the record's authentic intensity. As an independent release, it received positive attention in indie circles for its genuine expression but did not achieve significant commercial success on national charts.[62] His second studio album, A ritrovar bellezza, issued on October 27, 2014, by RCA/Sony Music, represented a departure by serving as a tribute to classic Italian songwriters from the 1960s and 1970s, reinterpreting 10 covers with modern arrangements that infused fresh emotional depth.[63] Themes of rediscovering beauty amid nostalgia and timeless love dominate the project, with Diodato's arrangements emphasizing acoustic intimacy and subtle orchestration to honor originals by artists like Bruno Lauzi and Lucio Battisti. Standout tracks include "La voce del silenzio," featuring a collaboration with Manuel Agnelli for added rock edge, and "Canzone per te," a poignant rendition that underscores the album's homage to enduring melodies. While praised for its respectful yet innovative takes, the album remained niche, appealing primarily to fans of Italian cantautori traditions without notable chart impact.[64] In 2017, Diodato released Cosa siamo diventati on January 27 via Carosello Records, a pivotal work that demonstrated his artistic growth through 12 original songs blending pop, rock, and soul elements in a more polished production.[65] The album delves into themes of transformation, identity, and the fragility of human connections, reflecting on how experiences reshape individuals with a mature, introspective lens. Notable tracks such as "Uomo fragile," a soulful exploration of vulnerability, and the title song "Cosa siamo diventati," which questions personal evolution, exemplify his evolving lyricism and melodic versatility. Collaborations with producers enhanced its sonic layers, contributing to favorable critical reception for its emotional resonance, though it peaked at number 48 on the Italian Albums Chart.[66] The breakthrough album Che vita meravigliosa, released on February 14, 2020, by Carosello Records amid the early COVID-19 pandemic, solidified Diodato's mainstream status with 12 tracks that radiate hope and resilience through uplifting anthems and heartfelt ballads.[67] Central themes revolve around cherishing life's wonders despite adversity, inspired by the isolation of lockdown, as seen in the Sanremo-winning single "Fai rumore," a powerful call for connection, and the title track, which became an unofficial pandemic anthem emphasizing gratitude and was awarded the David di Donatello for Best Original Song in the film The Life Ahead. The album's blend of orchestral swells and intimate acoustics amplified its impact, leading to commercial success with a peak at number 4 on the Italian Albums Chart and over 60 weeks on the ranking, certified gold (50,000 units) by FIMI.[68][69] Diodato's most recent studio album, Così speciale, arrived on March 24, 2023, via Carosello Records, comprising 11 tracks that push experimental boundaries with electronic textures and raw indie rock, marking a bold evolution in his sound.[36] It grapples with themes of love's chaos, loss, and personal rebirth in a modern context, using fragmented narratives and innovative production to convey existential tension. Highlights include the lead single "Così speciale," a brooding electropop piece on fleeting intimacy, and "Che casino," which captures disarray through dynamic rhythms and layered vocals, earning acclaim for its critical introspection. The album debuted at number 15 on the Italian Albums Chart, reflecting sustained fan engagement and positive reviews for its adventurous spirit.[70]Live albums and compilations
Diodato's entry into live recordings came with the release of Ho acceso un fuoco (Live Studio Session) on April 19, 2024. The album was recorded live at the historic Officine Meccaniche studio in Milan, featuring 12 tracks that blend re-recorded versions of concert staples with new compositions.[71] Highlights include intimate renditions of "Ma che vuoi," "Mi si scioglie la bocca," "Mi fai morire," "Ti muovi," "Ci vorrebbe un miracolo," and "Ubriaco," alongside four unreleased songs, emphasizing the immediacy and emotional depth of live performance.[72][73] In terms of compilations and reissues, Diodato's debut album E forse sono pazzo received an expanded edition in 2014, incorporating the track "Babilonia" from his Sanremo Festival participation that year.[74]Singles
Diodato's early singles, released prior to his mainstream breakthrough, were closely tied to his Sanremo Festival appearances and achieved modest commercial success in Italy. His debut single, "Babilonia," entered the competition as part of the Newcomers section at the 2014 Sanremo Music Festival, where it secured second place behind Rocco Hunt's entry. Released in February 2014, the track, which explores themes of urban alienation and personal disconnection, did not enter the top ranks of the FIMI singles chart but gained initial visibility through festival airplay and a simple promotional video featuring live performance footage. Similarly, "Fottuta canzone" from 2017, a raw, introspective ballad critiquing the music industry, served as a lead single from his sophomore album Cosa siamo diventati and received limited radio rotation without notable chart placement, reflecting Diodato's emerging but niche appeal at the time. In 2018, "Adesso," a collaboration with trumpeter Roy Paci, represented Italy at the Sanremo Festival's Big Artists category, finishing eighth overall; the upbeat, socially conscious track peaked at number 28 on the FIMI singles chart and number 22 on the EarOne airplay chart, bolstered by its energetic music video shot in Sicilian landscapes that highlighted themes of hope and unity. The pivotal single "Fai rumore," released on February 7, 2020, marked Diodato's commercial ascent after winning the 70th Sanremo Music Festival. The song, a poignant plea for emotional presence amid isolation, topped the FIMI singles chart for multiple weeks following the festival, driven by its resonance during the early COVID-19 pandemic. Certified triple platinum by FIMI for exceeding 150,000 units in sales and streaming equivalents, it amassed over 100 million Spotify streams by mid-2021, underscoring its enduring popularity. Selected as Italy's entry for the cancelled 2020 Eurovision Song Contest, "Fai rumore" generated significant international buzz, with performances at virtual events like the Eurovision: Europe Shine a Light broadcast amplifying its global reach; the official music video, directed by Milo Manara and blending animation with live elements, further enhanced its cultural impact as a symbol of resilience. In the post-2020 era, Diodato's singles have continued to blend introspection with broader thematic explorations, often accompanied by visually striking international videoclips. "Ti muovi," his 2024 Sanremo entry released on February 7, peaked at number 26 on the FIMI singles chart and earned a gold certification (50,000 units) by FIMI; reflecting a more experimental sound with electronic influences, the official video, filmed in diverse locations including urban Rome and rural Puglia, emphasizes movement and transformation. Later that year, "Molto amore" (June 28, 2024) emerged as a tender love song with a minimalist arrangement, featuring an international videoclip directed by 11AM that incorporates footage from global travels to evoke universal romance. "Un Atto Di Rivoluzione" (October 4, 2024), a poetic anthem calling for personal and societal change, was released with a conceptual video exploring surreal dreamscapes, gaining traction through live tour previews. Most recently, "Non ci credo più" (April 25, 2025), a manifesto-like track addressing disillusionment and activism, debuted with an official video blending protest imagery and personal narrative, marking Diodato's shift toward more politically charged releases amid ongoing streaming growth on platforms like Spotify.[75][76]Awards and nominations
| Year | Award | Category | Result | Nominated work |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 | MTV Italia Awards | Best New Generation | Won | Himself[3] |
| 2020 | Sanremo Music Festival | Critics' Award | Won | "Fai rumore"[1] |
| 2020 | Sanremo Music Festival | Press Room Award | Won | "Fai rumore"[1] |
| 2020 | Targa Tenco | Best Album | Won | Che vita meravigliosa[77] |
| 2020 | Targa Tenco | Best Song | Won | "Che vita meravigliosa"[77] |
| 2020 | David di Donatello | Best Original Song | Won | "Che vita meravigliosa" (La dea fortuna) |
| 2020 | Nastro d'Argento | Best Original Song | Won | "Che vita meravigliosa" (La dea fortuna)[78] |
| 2020 | Ciak d'Oro | Best Original Song | Won | "Che vita meravigliosa" (La dea fortuna)[79] |
| 2020 | MTV Europe Music Awards | Best Italian Act | Won | Himself[80] |
| 2023 | David di Donatello | Best Original Song | Nominated | "Se mi vuoi" (Diabolik: Ginko Attacks!)[79] |
| 2024 | Targa Tenco | Best Song | Won | "La mia terra" |
| 2024 | David di Donatello | Best Original Song | Won | "La mia terra" (Palazzina Laf)[81] |
| 2024 | Nastro d'Argento | Best Original Song | Won | "La mia terra" (Palazzina Laf)[82] |
| 2024 | Ciak d'Oro | Best Original Song | Won | "La mia terra" (Palazzina Laf)[83] |
| 2024 | Amnesty International Italia Award | Section Big | Won | "La mia terra"[84] |