Italian music has a long and storied history, and Italian singers have played a crucial role in shaping the country’s musical landscape. From the operatic tradition to the vibrant world of pop music, Italian singers have captured the hearts and minds of audiences around the world.
One of the most famous Italian singers of all time is Luciano Pavarotti, a renowned tenor who helped to popularize opera in the mainstream. His powerful and emotive performances made him a beloved figure around the world, and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of singers and musicians.
Another iconic Italian singer is Andrea Bocelli, whose soaring voice and poignant lyrics have made him one of the most popular classical crossover artists of all time. His collaborations with artists like Celine Dion and Ed Sheeran have helped to bring his music to an even wider audience.
Other famous Italian singers include Eros Ramazzotti, Laura Pausini, and Zucchero, each of whom has contributed to the rich tapestry of Italian music with their unique voices and styles. Whether performing traditional Italian ballads or modern pop hits, these singers continue to captivate audiences around the world with their passion, emotion, and unparalleled talent.
1. Luciano Pavarotti
Luciano Pavarotti was an Italian operatic tenor who was widely regarded as one of the most successful and beloved singers of the 20th century. Born on October 12, 1935, in Modena, Italy, Pavarotti began his music career in 1961 and quickly became known for his powerful voice and passionate performances.
Over the course of his career, Pavarotti performed in some of the most famous opera houses in the world, including the Metropolitan Opera in New York, La Scala in Milan, and the Royal Opera House in London. He also became known for his collaborations with other popular singers, such as Plácido Domingo and José Carreras, and the trio famously performed together as “The Three Tenors.”
Pavarotti’s incredible talent and artistry made him a beloved figure around the world, and he inspired countless fans with his music and performances. He was also known for his humanitarian efforts, supporting various causes and charities over the years.
Pavarotti passed away on September 6, 2007, but his legacy as one of the greatest singers of all time continues to inspire and influence new generations of musicians and fans.
2. Andrea Bocelli
Andrea Bocelli is an Italian tenor, singer, and songwriter who is widely regarded as one of the greatest vocalists of his generation. Born in Tuscany in 1958, Bocelli began his career in music as a young child, singing in church choirs and performing at local events.
As a teenager, Bocelli studied law at the University of Pisa while continuing to pursue his love of music. In 1992, he made his professional debut at the Sanremo Music Festival, where he performed the song “Miserere” with the legendary singer Luciano Pavarotti.
Since then, Bocelli has become one of the most successful and beloved singers in the world, with a career spanning over three decades and countless hit songs and albums. He is known for his powerful, emotive vocals and his ability to sing in a wide range of genres, from opera and classical music to pop and rock.
In addition to his work as a singer, Bocelli is also a dedicated humanitarian and philanthropist, using his fame and resources to support causes such as education, medical research, and disability rights.
Today, Andrea Bocelli is widely regarded as a living legend of music, and his legacy as a talented artist and humanitarian is secure. His music continues to inspire and touch the hearts of millions of people around the world.
3. Laura Pausini
Laura Pausini is a renowned Italian singer-songwriter who has become a household name in her home country and around the world. Born in 1974 in the town of Solarolo, Pausini began her musical career at a young age, performing in local festivals and competitions.
She rose to fame in the early 1990s with the release of her debut album, “Laura Pausini,” which featured the hit single “La solitudine.” The song quickly became a chart-topping success, both in Italy and throughout Europe, and launched Pausini’s career as an international star.
Since then, Pausini has released a string of successful albums and singles, earning numerous accolades for her powerful voice, emotive lyrics, and compelling performances. She has collaborated with a diverse range of artists, including Kylie Minogue, James Blunt, and Andrea Bocelli, and has performed on stages around the world.
Despite her global success, Pausini remains deeply connected to her Italian roots, frequently incorporating traditional Italian musical styles into her work. Her music is characterized by a potent blend of passion, emotion, and sincerity, and continues to inspire and move audiences around the world.
4. Fedez
Fedez, born Federico Leonardo Lucia, is an Italian rapper, singer, songwriter, and record producer who has become one of the most prominent figures in the Italian music industry. Born on October 15, 1989, in Milan, Italy, Fedez began his music career in 2011 and quickly gained a large following with his unique blend of hip-hop, pop, and electronic music.
Over the years, Fedez has released several hit singles and albums, collaborating with a wide range of other artists and musicians. He is known for his catchy melodies, socially conscious lyrics, and dynamic live performances, and he has been recognized with numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to the music industry.
In addition to his music career, Fedez is also known for his activism and advocacy work, particularly in the areas of LGBTQ+ rights and mental health awareness. He has used his platform and influence to raise awareness and funds for various causes and charities, and he continues to inspire and empower others with his message of hope and positivity.
With his talent, dedication, and commitment to social justice, Fedez has become one of the most important and influential artists in the Italian music scene, and he continues to push boundaries and break new ground with his music and activism.
5. Eros Ramazzotti
Eros Ramazzotti is an Italian singer, songwriter, and musician who has achieved international success with his unique blend of pop, rock, and Latin music. Born in Rome in 1963, Ramazzotti began his musical career at a young age, performing in local bands and working as a session musician.
In 1984, he released his debut album, “Cuori agitati,” which quickly became a hit in Italy and established Ramazzotti as a rising star in the world of pop music. Since then, he has released over 20 albums and sold over 70 million records worldwide.
Ramazzotti is known for his powerful, soulful vocals and his ability to write catchy, emotionally charged songs that resonate with audiences around the world. He has collaborated with a wide range of musicians and artists over the course of his career, including Tina Turner, Ricky Martin, and Anastacia.
In addition to his work as a musician, Ramazzotti is also a dedicated humanitarian and philanthropist, using his fame and resources to support causes such as education, healthcare, and social justice.
Today, Eros Ramazzotti is widely regarded as one of the greatest pop singers of his generation, and his music continues to inspire and captivate fans around the globe.
6. Måneskin
Måneskin is an Italian rock band that burst onto the global music scene in 2021 with their electrifying performances and unique sound. The band members – lead vocalist Damiano David, guitarist Thomas Raggi, bassist Victoria De Angelis, and drummer Ethan Torchio – first met in Rome in 2016 and began creating music together shortly thereafter.
Their breakthrough moment came in 2021 when they participated in the Italian music competition “Sanremo Music Festival,” where they won first place with their song “Zitti e buoni.” The song quickly became a viral hit, and the band’s popularity exploded around the world.
Måneskin’s music is characterized by a high-energy blend of rock, punk, and pop influences, with catchy hooks, powerful vocals, and raw instrumentation. They have been compared to iconic bands such as The Rolling Stones and Led Zeppelin, but with a modern edge that speaks to a new generation of music lovers.
In addition to their music, Måneskin is known for their unique fashion sense and bold stage presence, with David’s androgynous style and dynamic performances in particular capturing the attention of fans and critics alike.
With their distinctive sound and undeniable talent, Måneskin has cemented their place as one of the most exciting new bands in the global music scene.
7. Sfera Ebbasta
Sfera Ebbasta, born Gionata Boschetti, is an Italian rapper, singer, and songwriter who has made a huge impact on the Italian music scene. Born on December 7, 1992, in Sesto San Giovanni, Italy, Sfera Ebbasta began his music career in 2012, and quickly became known for his catchy beats and lyrics that blend elements of rap, pop, and trap.
Over the years, Sfera Ebbasta has released several successful albums and singles, collaborating with a range of other artists and musicians. He is known for his distinctive style and unique sound, which has earned him a large and dedicated fan base across Italy and beyond.
Sfera Ebbasta has also been recognized with numerous awards and accolades, including the prestigious MTV Europe Music Award for Best Italian Act in 2018. He has been credited with helping to popularize the trap music genre in Italy, and his influence has inspired many other artists and musicians to explore new sounds and styles.
With his talent, charisma, and entrepreneurial spirit, Sfera Ebbasta has become one of the most important and influential figures in the Italian music industry, and he continues to push boundaries and break new ground with his music and creative vision.
8. Domenico Modugno
Domenico Modugno was an Italian singer, songwriter, and actor who became one of the most popular and influential figures in Italian music in the 20th century. Born in 1928 in Puglia, southern Italy, Modugno began his career as a singer in the early 1950s, and quickly gained a reputation for his powerful voice and emotive performances.
Modugno achieved international fame in 1958, when he won the Sanremo Music Festival with his song “Nel blu dipinto di blu,” better known as “Volare.” The song became an instant hit, and went on to become one of the most iconic and beloved songs in the history of Italian music.
Over the course of his career, Modugno released over 50 albums and wrote over 200 songs, many of which became hits both in Italy and around the world. In addition to his work as a musician, Modugno was also a respected actor, appearing in numerous films and television shows throughout his career.
Today, Domenico Modugno is widely regarded as a cultural icon in Italy, and his music continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world. His legacy as a pioneer of Italian pop music remains unmatched, and his influence on the genre continues to be felt to this day.
9. Alessandra Amoroso
Alessandra Amoroso is an Italian singer and songwriter who has become one of the most successful and beloved artists in Italy. Born in Galatina, a small town in the province of Lecce, in 1986, she rose to fame after winning the eighth edition of the popular talent show “Amici di Maria De Filippi” in 2009.
Since then, Alessandra has released numerous albums and singles, showcasing her powerful voice and emotive songwriting skills. Her music is a blend of pop, R&B, and soul influences, with a focus on heartfelt lyrics and melodic hooks that resonate with audiences across Italy and beyond.
In addition to her music, Alessandra is known for her philanthropic work, supporting organizations that work towards social and environmental causes. She is also an ambassador for the Italian branch of UNICEF.
Throughout her career, Alessandra has won numerous awards and accolades, including several Platinum and Gold certifications for her albums and singles. Her popularity continues to grow, with sold-out concerts and devoted fans across Italy and beyond.
With her undeniable talent, passion for music, and dedication to social causes, Alessandra Amoroso has become a true icon of the Italian music scene.
10. Ghali
Ghali is an Italian rapper and singer who has made a name for himself with his unique blend of hip-hop and North African sounds. Born in Milan in 1993, Ghali Amdouni grew up listening to a wide range of music and began writing and performing his own songs at a young age.
Ghali’s music is characterized by his skillful use of wordplay, his energetic and emotive delivery, and his incorporation of Arabic influences into his sound. He has released several successful albums and singles, including “Ninna Nanna,” “Habibi,” and “Ricchi Dentro,” which have earned him a dedicated following in Italy and beyond.
In addition to his music, Ghali is also known for his activism and his outspoken support for social justice causes. He has used his platform to speak out about issues such as racism, inequality, and political corruption, and has become a role model for many young people in Italy and beyond.
With his talent, passion, and commitment to making a positive impact on the world, Ghali has become one of the most important and influential voices in the Italian music scene, and he continues to inspire and uplift his fans with his music and his message.
11. Coez
Coez is an Italian singer, rapper, and songwriter known for his unique blend of hip-hop, pop, and electronic music. Born in 1983 in Nocera Inferiore, Italy, Coez (real name: Silvano Albanese) began his music career in the mid-2000s, first as a member of the group Brokenspeakers and later as a solo artist.
Coez’s music is characterized by his smooth, melodic flow and introspective lyrics that often touch on themes of love, relationships, and personal growth. His sound has been compared to artists like Drake and Post Malone, but his lyrics are distinctly Italian and often feature references to his hometown of Rome.
Since releasing his debut album “Figlio di nessuno” in 2013, Coez has become one of the most popular and critically acclaimed artists in Italian music. His fourth album, “Faccio un casino,” released in 2017, was a huge commercial success and cemented his status as a major force in the Italian music scene.
Coez’s music has also gained a following outside of Italy, particularly in Spain and Latin America, where he has performed on tour and collaborated with local artists. With his unique sound and thoughtful lyrics, Coez is a rising star in the world of Italian music and a promising talent to watch in the years to come.
12. Gigliola Cinquetti
Gigliola Cinquetti is an Italian singer and television presenter, known for her captivating voice and expressive performances. Born in Verona, Italy in 1947, she gained international fame at the age of 16, when she won the Sanremo Music Festival in 1964 with the song “Non ho l’età” (I’m not old enough).
Her breakthrough hit was a massive success across Europe, topping charts in several countries and earning her the honour of representing Italy at the Eurovision Song Contest that same year. Her performance of “Non ho l’età” at the contest was equally well-received, and she went on to win the competition with a then-record score.
Cinquetti continued to produce hit songs throughout the 1960s and 1970s, winning numerous awards and honours for her music. In addition to her singing career, she has also worked as a television presenter, hosting several popular shows in Italy and other European countries.
Over the course of her career, Cinquetti has become known as one of Italy’s most beloved and iconic singers, known for her beautiful voice, emotive performances, and enduring legacy in Italian music.
13. Anna Tatangelo
Anna Tatangelo is an Italian singer and songwriter who has been making music since the age of 15. Born in Sora, Italy in 1987, she first rose to fame in 2002 when she won the Newcomers section of the Sanremo Music Festival with her song “Doppiamente Fragili.”
Since then, Anna has released several successful albums and singles, and has become one of the most popular and beloved performers in Italy. Her music is characterized by her powerful and emotive voice, her catchy pop melodies, and her ability to connect with her audience on a deep and personal level.
In addition to her music career, Anna is also known for her work as a television personality and actress. She has appeared in several popular Italian television shows and films, and has won critical acclaim for her performances.
Throughout her career, Anna has remained committed to her art and to her fans, and has become an inspiration to many young women in Italy and beyond. With her talent, passion, and dedication, she continues to be one of the most important and influential voices in Italian music today.
14. Elisa
Elisa Toffoli, known simply as Elisa, is an Italian singer-songwriter who has become one of the most successful and popular artists in Italy. Born in Trieste in 1977, Elisa began her music career in the mid-90s and released her debut album, “Pipes & Flowers”, in 1997.
Elisa’s music is a blend of pop, rock, and electronic influences, characterized by her powerful voice and emotive songwriting. She has released numerous albums and singles throughout her career, showcasing her versatility and creativity as an artist.
In addition to her music, Elisa is known for her humanitarian and environmental activism. She has been involved in various charitable organizations, supporting causes such as animal rights, environmental protection, and social justice.
Throughout her career, Elisa has won numerous awards and accolades, including several Platinum and Gold certifications for her albums and singles. She has also collaborated with a range of international artists, including Tina Turner, Luciano Pavarotti, and Andrea Bocelli.
With her unique voice, powerful lyrics, and commitment to social and environmental causes, Elisa has become an icon of the Italian music scene, inspiring generations of fans across Italy and beyond.
15. Giorgia
Giorgia Todrani, known professionally as Giorgia, is an Italian singer-songwriter known for her soulful voice, powerful lyrics, and eclectic musical style. Born in Rome in 1971, Giorgia began singing at a young age and quickly gained attention for her talent.
She released her debut album “Giorgia” in 1994, which included the hit single “E poi”, and since then, she has gone on to release numerous successful albums and singles, becoming one of Italy’s most popular and enduring musical artists.
Giorgia’s music is characterized by her powerful vocals, which blend elements of soul, pop, and rock, and her lyrics, which often address themes of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery. She is also known for her collaborations with other artists, including Ray Charles, Andrea Bocelli, and Luciano Pavarotti.
In addition to her music career, Giorgia is also a respected actress and television personality, having appeared in several films and television shows in Italy. She is widely regarded as one of Italy’s most talented and influential artists, known for her captivating performances and lasting contributions to Italian music.
16. Marco Mengoni
Marco Mengoni is an Italian singer-songwriter and musician, born in Ronciglione, Italy, in 1988. He first rose to fame in 2009, when he won the third series of the Italian talent show X Factor. Since then, he has released several successful albums and singles, and has become one of the most popular and beloved performers in Italy.
Mengoni’s music is characterized by his distinctive and emotive voice, his powerful and memorable melodies, and his ability to connect with his audience on a deep and personal level. He is known for his versatile and eclectic style, which incorporates elements of pop, rock, soul, and electronic music.
In addition to his music career, Mengoni is also a passionate activist and advocate for various social causes, including LGBTQ+ rights and environmental sustainability. He has used his platform to raise awareness and promote positive change, and has become a role model for many young people in Italy and beyond.
With his talent, passion, and commitment to social justice, Marco Mengoni continues to be one of the most important and influential voices in Italian music today.
17. Mina
Mina, born Anna Maria Mazzini in 1940, is one of Italy’s most iconic and enduring musical figures. She is known for her distinctive voice, impeccable phrasing, and her ability to effortlessly transition between genres, including pop, rock, and jazz.
Mina rose to fame in the late 1950s and quickly became one of Italy’s most popular and beloved singers, known for her powerful performances and magnetic stage presence. She has released over 70 albums throughout her career, earning numerous awards and accolades along the way.
Mina’s music has not only been popular in Italy but has also gained international recognition. Her signature song “Se Telefonando” was a hit in France and her song “Parole Parole” was a hit across Europe and in Latin America.
In addition to her music, Mina has been a cultural icon in Italy, breaking taboos and setting trends with her fashion and lifestyle choices. She retired from public performances in 1978, but continued to release new music until 2018, when she released her final album “Paradiso (Lucio Battisti Songbook)”.
Mina’s influence on Italian music and culture is immeasurable, and she remains a beloved and admired figure to this day.
18. Patty Pravo
Patty Pravo, born as Nicoletta Strambelli in Venice, Italy, is a legendary Italian singer-songwriter and actress who rose to fame in the 1960s. She is considered one of the most important and influential female artists in the Italian music scene.
Her distinctive voice and unique style combined elements of rock, pop, and psychedelic music. She became known for her daring and innovative music, often collaborating with prominent Italian composers and musicians. Throughout her career, she has released more than 30 albums and sold millions of records.
Patty Pravo’s music often addressed social and political issues, and she became a symbol of the 1960s counterculture movement. Her hits include “La bambola,” “Pazza idea,” and “Se perdo te,” among others.
In addition to her music career, Patty Pravo has also appeared in several films and television shows, showcasing her versatility as an artist. She has won numerous awards for her music and performances, and remains a beloved and influential figure in Italian pop culture.
19. Umberto Tozzi
Umberto Tozzi is an Italian singer-songwriter and musician, born in Turin, Italy in 1952. He is one of the most popular and successful Italian artists of all time, known for his distinctive voice, catchy melodies, and emotional lyrics.
Tozzi first rose to fame in the late 1970s with his hit song “Ti Amo”, which became an international success and a classic of Italian pop music. Since then, he has released numerous albums and singles, earning critical acclaim and a dedicated following around the world.
Tozzi’s music is characterized by his ability to blend different styles and genres, including pop, rock, disco, and electronic music. He is known for his versatile and eclectic style, and his ability to connect with his audience on a deep and personal level.
In addition to his music career, Tozzi is also a talented composer and producer, having worked with many other Italian artists over the years. He has also been a vocal advocate for various social causes, including the fight against domestic violence and the promotion of environmental sustainability.
With his talent, versatility, and commitment to social justice, Umberto Tozzi continues to be one of the most influential and beloved artists in Italian music today.
20. Adriano Celentano
Adriano Celentano, born in 1938, is one of Italy’s most successful and influential singer-songwriters of all time. He is known for his eclectic musical style, blending rock and roll, pop, and even rap with traditional Italian music.
Celentano first rose to fame in the late 1950s as a rock and roll singer, earning the nickname “il Molleggiato” for his unique dance moves. He soon expanded his musical repertoire, experimenting with different genres and incorporating social commentary into his lyrics.
Throughout his career, Celentano has released over 40 albums and written and performed many of Italy’s most beloved songs, including “Azzurro,” “Prisencolinensinainciusol,” and “Il Ragazzo Della Via Gluck.”
Celentano has also had a successful acting career, appearing in numerous films and television shows. He has won multiple awards and accolades for his contributions to Italian music and culture, and has been inducted into the Italian Music Hall of Fame.
Celentano’s legacy as a singer, songwriter, and cultural icon continues to influence Italian music and popular culture to this day.