Double You
Double You is an Italian Eurodance and techno group formed in 1985 by vocalist William Naraine, keyboardist and producer Franco Amato, and DJ Andrea de Antoni.[1][2] The group rose to international prominence in the early 1990s with their dance-oriented cover of "Please Don't Go," originally by KC and the Sunshine Band, which sold over three million copies worldwide and earned gold and platinum certifications in countries including Germany, France, the Netherlands, and Spain.[1][3] Following their breakthrough, Double You released their debut album We All Need Love in 1992, featuring additional hits like the title track, which topped charts across Europe.[1][2] Their second album, The Blue Album (1994), included successful singles such as "Missing You," "Part-Time Lover," "Heart of Glass," and "Run to Me," further solidifying their status in the Eurodance scene.[1] In 1995, they collaborated with vocalist Sandra Chambers for the summer hit "Dancing with an Angel," marking a shift toward incorporating female vocals.[1][2] The group's lineup evolved over time, with de Antoni departing in 1996; subsequent members included vocalists Francine Missika and Giovana Félix.[2] Double You continued releasing music into the 2000s, including remixes like a 2001 version of "Please Don't Go" and singles such as "Music (Is the Answer)" (2000) and "Dance Anymore" (2002).[1] Their later albums, Forever (1996) and Life (2011), along with a best-of compilation Studio Live (2001) popular in Brazil, highlighted their enduring appeal.[1][2] In 1996, they undertook a major 64-show tour in Brazil, attracting over 350,000 attendees.[2] Remaining active into the 2020s, Double You has issued new material, including the single "Curtain Calls" in 2024, collaborations with producer Rick Bonadio in 2025 such as "Nobody Is Like You", and a planned album One, demonstrating their longevity in the dance music genre.[2]History
Formation and early years (1985–1992)
Double You was founded in 1985 in La Spezia, Italy, by vocalist William Naraine, keyboardist Franco Amato, and DJ Andrea de Antoni. The trio began their collaboration as an Italian techno and hip-house group, drawing from the emerging electronic dance music scenes in Europe during the mid-1980s. Their early work emphasized rhythmic beats and urban influences, reflecting the underground club culture of the time.[1] By late 1992, Double You underwent a pivotal shift toward Eurodance, recording a cover of KC and the Sunshine Band's 1979 ballad "Please Don't Go." Produced by renowned Italian producer Roberto Zanetti (known as Robyx), the track transformed the original into an upbeat, synth-driven dance anthem with layered vocals by Naraine and pulsating rhythms characteristic of early 1990s Eurodance. Released in December 1992 on the DWA label, the single marked their transition from underground techno to mainstream appeal, entering the Italian charts and signaling the start of broader recognition. The production incorporated Zanetti's expertise in electronic arrangements, including prominent keyboard synths and a catchy hook that resonated in European clubs.[4][1]International breakthrough (1993–1996)
Following the success of their 1992 single "Please Don't Go," Double You released their debut studio album We All Need Love later that year, featuring the title track which became another hit across Europe. The group experienced a significant international breakthrough, expanding their presence across Europe and beyond during the mid-1990s. The track, a Eurodance cover of KC and the Sunshine Band's 1979 ballad, topped charts in countries including Italy, France, Belgium, and the Netherlands, achieving over 3 million worldwide sales and earning multiple gold and platinum certifications.[1] This momentum allowed the group to solidify their sound, blending upbeat electronic rhythms with William Naraine's distinctive soulful vocals, marking a full transition to the Eurodance genre that defined their commercial peak.[1] In 1994, Double You released their second studio album, The Blue Album, which further showcased their evolving production style through high-energy tracks and collaborations. Key singles from this period, such as "Run to Me," highlighted the group's ability to fuse danceable beats with catchy hooks, contributing to their growing popularity in European markets. The album's release was accompanied by extensive touring across Europe, where the band performed at major venues and festivals, drawing large crowds and establishing them as a staple of the continent's dance scene.[5][1] Early interest from the U.S. market also emerged, with promotional efforts and airplay on dance radio stations introducing their music to American audiences, though success remained primarily European.[1] By 1995, Double You continued their ascent with the single "Dancing with an Angel," featuring guest vocals from Sandy Chambers, which exemplified their polished Eurodance formula of pulsating synths and anthemic choruses. This release reinforced their international appeal, charting well in several European countries and supporting ongoing tours that extended their reach. The period culminated in 1996 with the album Forever, and a major 64-show tour in Brazil that attracted over 350,000 attendees, but the foundational hits and live performances from 1993 onward cemented Double You's status as a global Eurodance act, with Naraine's emotive delivery remaining a core element of their identity.[6][1][7]Hiatus and reunions (1997–2009)
Following the international success of their second album The Blue Album in 1994, Double You experienced a gradual decline as the Eurodance genre lost momentum in Europe by the mid-1990s, with shifting trends toward harder house and trance sounds reducing mainstream appeal for upbeat vocal dance acts. Their third studio album, Forever, released in 1996 and dedicated to Brazilian fans, saw promotion extend into 1997 through targeted marketing in South America, where the group maintained a strong following; half the record was produced in Brazil to capitalize on this market.[7] At the start of 1996, DJ Andrea de Antoni departed the group to pursue a solo career, leaving vocalist William Naraine and producer Franco Amato to handle core duties, which contributed to a semi-hiatus in the late 1990s marked by sporadic activity amid internal adjustments and the broader Eurodance downturn. The band released Heaven in 1998, featuring covers like "Ain't No Stopping Us Now" and originals such as "Desperado," but it failed to replicate prior commercial heights, reflecting the genre's waning popularity.[8][7] By the early 2000s, Double You shifted focus to Brazil, releasing the compilation Studio Live in 2001 exclusively for that market, alongside singles like "Music (Is The Answer)" in 2000 and "Dance Anymore" in 2002, which emphasized nostalgic remixes of earlier hits. These efforts sustained interest in South America, where the group undertook multiple tours, including a 2003 run across the South, Southeast, Belém, Macapá, Manaus, and São Paulo's Olympia venue, drawing crowds eager for 1990s throwbacks.[1] Reunions in the mid-2000s capitalized on enduring demand for Eurodance nostalgia, with performances across Europe and extensive Brazilian engagements, such as 2006 shows featuring collaborations with DJ Ross on tracks like "Get Up." A 2004 Brazil-only compilation, Pérolas, and the 2007 live album Live in Brazil further documented these revivals, though creative differences over direction and the genre's evolution limited full-scale comebacks. The period highlighted challenges like the Eurodance shift toward subgenres such as bubblegum dance and the impact of lineup instability on cohesion.[1][9][10]Revival and recent activities (2010–present)
After a period of reduced activity, Double You marked their revival in 2010 with the release of the single "If I Could Fall", signaling a return to new music production.[7] This track was followed by digital releases, including the 2011 album Life issued in Brazil under the project name, which helped re-engage fans through online platforms.[7] In 2013, the band stabilized its lineup with William Naraine joined by Gino Martini, Gustavo Filipovich, Paulo Soveral, and Missaka for live performances, enabling a focus on touring and contemporary adaptations of their Eurodance sound.[11] This configuration supported ongoing engagements, particularly in Brazil, where they performed at major venues like Tokio Marine Hall in São Paulo as part of anniversary tours celebrating their legacy.[12] Entering the 2020s, Double You continued their resurgence through collaborations and digital singles, adapting to streaming dominance with releases on platforms like Spotify and Apple Music, including the single "Curtain Calls" in 2024. In 2025, they issued "Nobody is Like You" in collaboration with producer Rick Bonadio, blending their classic style with modern production.[13] Later that year, in June, they released "Runaway Child" featuring Bruno Martini, accompanied by an acoustic version and a Rick Bonadio remix, further expanding their catalog for digital audiences.[14] The band maintained activity with tours in Brazil, including shows in Goiânia and São Paulo, and expanded to North America with a scheduled performance at Higher Ground in South Burlington, Vermont, reflecting sustained fan loyalty to their historical hits like "Please Don't Go".[15][16] These efforts underscore Double You's transition into the streaming era, prioritizing accessible digital content and selective live events.Band members
Current members
The current lineup of Double You, as of 2025, features William Naraine as the lead vocalist, a role he has held since the band's formation in 1985; he is also the primary songwriter and central performer, drawing on his UK birth and Italian heritage to shape the group's enduring Eurodance sound. Naraine, born in London to an Italian mother and Indian father, holds an Italian passport and has been based in Italy since the 1980s.[17][18] Gino Martini serves on keyboards and oversees production, having joined in 1996 and infusing Brazilian elements into the music; his contributions include co-producing the band's 2011 album Life and the planned 2025 album One, which features the single "Curtain Calls."[19][20] The supporting live ensemble, stable since 2013, bolsters recent tours across Europe and South America with dynamic performances. Gustavo Filipovich, a Brazilian musician, plays bass guitar and adds vitality to the stage energy during shows. Paulo Soveral provides drums, establishing a solid rhythmic backbone for live sets. Missaka handles guitar duties, updating arrangements to blend classic hits with contemporary flair in ongoing revival efforts.[21][22]Former members
Franco Amato served as Double You's co-founder, keyboardist, and producer from the band's inception in 1985 until the late 1990s. Born on August 21, 1963, in La Spezia, Italy, he was pivotal in crafting the group's initial Italo-disco and hip-house tracks, including co-producing the 1985 demo version of "Please Don't Go" and its 1992 Eurodance remake that propelled the band to international fame.[2][23] Andrea de Antoni, another co-founder, acted as the band's DJ from 1985 until 1996, managing mixing duties and promoting their music in club circuits during the formative years. His contributions helped establish Double You's presence in the European dance scene alongside Naraine and Amato.[23][24][7] Stage vocalists included Brazilian singer Francine Missika (until early 2006) and Giovana Félix (from 2006).[7] Following the band's hiatus starting in 1997, Amato and de Antoni did not return for the 2000s reunions or the 2010s revival, which featured an updated lineup centered on vocalist William Naraine. Their exits coincided with a period of inactivity, after which the group shifted toward contemporary Eurodance productions with new collaborators.[25]Musical style
Core genre and sound
Double You is classified as an Italian Eurodance and techno group, characterized by a fusion of upbeat house rhythms, synthetic melodies, and soulful R&B-influenced vocals delivered by lead singer William Naraine.[23][24][26] The band's signature sound features high-energy beats typically ranging from 120 to 130 BPM, infectious catchy hooks, and Naraine's emotive vocal delivery layered over predominantly electronic instrumentation.[27][28][29][26] Key production techniques include the incorporation of samples, such as those drawn from classic disco tracks like KC & The Sunshine Band's "Please Don't Go," alongside layered keyboard arrangements and dancefloor-focused song structures emphasizing verse-chorus builds to drive energy and accessibility.[21][30] This core style aligns Double You with contemporaries in the 1990s Eurodance scene, including Italian acts like Corona and international peers such as 2 Unlimited, sharing a emphasis on energetic, synth-driven dance tracks tailored for club and radio play.[31][32]Evolution and influences
By the early 1990s, however, the band pivoted to Eurodance under significant label guidance from ZYX Records, which encouraged cover versions to capitalize on commercial trends; their breakthrough remix of KC and the Sunshine Band's 1979 disco hit "Please Don't Go" exemplified this shift, transforming the track into a high-energy Eurodance anthem with prominent synth hooks and four-on-the-floor beats.[1] Produced by Italian maestro Roberto Zanetti (aka Savage), the single's success highlighted the influence of disco's melodic structures on their evolving sound. Key influences on Double You's Eurodance era included 1980s synth-pop acts, as well as broader disco legacies that provided rhythmic foundations for their upbeat tracks.[1] Italian production techniques, emphasizing polished electronic arrangements, further shaped their aesthetic, with Zanetti's input bridging underground roots to mainstream appeal. In the 2000s, during periods of hiatus and partial reunions, the group continued their dance-oriented repertoire, as seen in their 2011 album Life.[33][34] Entering the 2020s, Double You embraced streaming-era demands through EDM remixes, revitalizing classics like "Run to Me" with modern electronic drops to appeal to contemporary audiences.[35]Discography
Studio albums
Double You's studio discography consists of five original full-length albums, spanning from their Eurodance origins in the early 1990s to more contemporary dance and R&B-infused sounds in the 2010s. These releases showcase the band's evolution within the electronic dance genre, featuring a mix of original compositions, covers, and collaborations that highlight their signature upbeat rhythms and vocal hooks. The debut album, We All Need Love, released in 1992, contains 11 tracks and marked the band's entry into the Eurodance scene with an energetic, house-influenced sound. Key highlights include the international hit cover "Please Don't Go" and the title track "We All Need Love," which exemplify their early focus on catchy, club-oriented anthems. Followed by The Blue Album in 1994, this 11-track release shifted toward a brighter dance-pop emphasis, incorporating guest vocals and covers of pop classics. Standout tracks feature "Run to Me" with Ice MC and "Part-Time Lover" featuring Alexia, blending melodic hooks with pulsating beats to broaden their appeal.[36] Forever, issued in 1996, comprises 10 tracks that maintained the band's dance foundation while introducing smoother, more romantic elements. Notable songs include "Because I'm Loving You" and "Gonna Be My Baby," which highlight vocal harmonies and mid-tempo grooves.[37] The 1998 album Heaven features 10 tracks, drawing on a variety of influences including funk and soul covers adapted to Eurodance arrangements. Highlights encompass "Desperado" and "Ain't No Stopping Us Now," reflecting a playful yet polished production style. Double You's most recent studio effort, Life, arrived in 2011 with 12 tracks, evolving toward R&B-infused dance tracks with introspective themes and reloaded versions of earlier material. Key selections include "If I Could Fall" and "Looking at My Girl (Reloaded)," demonstrating a matured sound with emotional depth and modern electronic production.[38]Compilation and remix albums
Double You has released several compilation and remix albums throughout their career, primarily focusing on their Eurodance hits from the 1990s and later revivals in Brazil. These releases often collect remixed versions of popular singles or greatest hits packages tailored for international and regional markets.[23]Remix Albums
The group's first remix album, The Remixes, was issued in 1993 by Spotlight Records in CD format. It features extended and club-oriented remixes of tracks from their debut studio album We All Need Love, including reworks of "Please Don't Go" and "We All Need Love," aimed at dancefloors and DJ sets.[39][40] In 1995, ZYX Music released The 12" Mixes as a CD compilation. This collection gathers 12-inch vinyl mixes from earlier singles, such as the "EURO Mix" of "Part-Time Lover" and the "US Club Remix" of "We All Need Love," emphasizing longer instrumental breaks and beats for club play.[41][42]Compilation Albums
The Best Of, released in 1996 by Spotlight Records on CD (with some editions dated 1997), serves as an early greatest hits package. It includes key tracks like "Please Don't Go," "Run to Me," and "Who's Fooling Who," capturing the band's breakthrough era in the mid-1990s Eurodance scene.[43][44] Exclusive to the Brazilian market, Pérolas appeared in 2000 via Som Livre as a CD compilation. This release compiles fan-favorite singles such as "Please Don't Go," "Run to Me," and "With or Without You," reflecting Double You's strong popularity in South America during their hiatus period.[45] The 2007 digital compilation Ultimate 2007 Greatest Hits rounds out their non-studio output, available on platforms like Spotify and Apple Music. Spanning 14 tracks, it revisits classics including "Please Don't Go," "Missing You," and "Part-Time Lover," serving as a retrospective for global streaming listeners.[46][47]Live Albums
Studio Live, a 2001 CD released by Spotlight Records and Som Livre in Brazil, presents live-style recordings of hits performed in a studio setting. Tracks include live versions of "Run to Me," "She's Beautiful," and "Gonna Be My Baby," blending concert energy with polished production for regional audiences.[48][49] In 2007, a live recording Live in Brazil was issued as a CD and DVD, limited to Brazil via local labels. Captured during a São Paulo concert, it features performances of staples like "Please Don't Go" and "We All Need Love," documenting the band's reunion tour and enduring appeal in the region.[2][50]Singles
Double You's singles discography spans from their early 1990s breakthrough in the Eurodance scene to recent digital releases in the 2020s, with major tracks often issued in multiple formats including vinyl, CD maxi-singles, and later digital downloads. The band's output includes both commercial hits and promotional releases, such as radio edits and limited editions tied to albums like The Blue Album (1994) and Forever (1996). Formats evolved from physical media like 12-inch vinyl and CDs with B-sides (e.g., instrumental versions or alternate mixes) to digital promos in the 2020s.| Title | Year | Formats and Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Please Don't Go | 1992 | Vinyl (12"), CD single; radio mix and club versions included. B-side: acapella version.[51] |
| We All Need Love | 1992 | CD maxi-single, vinyl (12"); cover version with extended mix. Promotional radio edit released in Europe.[52] |
| With or Without You | 1993 | CD maxi-single, vinyl (12"); extended mix and radio edit. From We All Need Love.[53] |
| Run to Me | 1994 | CD maxi-single, vinyl (12"); original extended mix and radio edit. B-side: instrumental. From The Blue Album.[54] |
| Missing You | 1994 | CD single, vinyl (12"); radio mix and club remix. From The Blue Album.[55] |
| Part-Time Lover | 1994 | CD maxi-single, vinyl (12"); E.U.R.O. mix and radio edit. Featuring Alexia. From The Blue Album.[56] |
| Heart of Glass | 1995 | CD single, vinyl (12"); club mix and radio version. Cover of Blondie. From The Blue Album.[57] |
| Dancing with an Angel | 1995 | CD single, vinyl (12"); radio mix and super club mix. Limited edition promo with alternate versions. From The Blue Album.[58] |
| Because I'm Loving You | 1996 | CD maxi-single, vinyl (12"); radio mix and extended version. From Forever.[59] |
| Music (Is the Answer) | 2000 | CD single, digital; original mix and remixes.[60] |
| Dance Anymore | 2002 | CD single, digital; radio edit and club mix.[61] |
| Curtain Calls | 2024 | Digital single; original mix. Released November 29, 2024.[62] |
| Nobody is Like You (feat. Rick Bonadio) | 2025 | Digital single (FLAC, MP3); stereo release with congas by Double You. Promotional digital promo via streaming platforms.[63] |
| Runaway Child (feat. Bruno Martini) | 2025 | Digital single; includes acoustic version and Rick Bonadio remix. Limited digital promo editions.[64] |