Last year’s Sanremo music festival saw the victory of Angelina Mango with her song ‘La noia‘, which went on to earn an impressive 7th place in Eurovision 2024. Italy is now on a seven year long run of top ten finishes, and will no doubt be looking to continue that into year eight.
Notably, former host and artistic director Amadeus left his post after five years on the job, and the position has now been filled by former head of the contest Carlo Conti. During his previous 2015-17 reign, he achieved 3rd, 16th, and 6th in the Eurovision Song Contest respectively.
All eyes are now on Italy to see if they can once again bring a good result come May in Basel. Let’s take a look at the competing artists hoping to get there. The list also includes former Eurovision participants, Sanremo winners, and even familiar faces from Una Voce Per San Marino. But could there be anyone capable of lifting the trophy this year?
Achille Lauro – ‘Incoscienti giovani’
Lauro De Marinis, known as Achille Lauro, is a singer-songwriter and rapper from Verona, Veneto. He previously competed in the contest thrice, with ‘Rolls Royce’ in 2019 (9th), ‘Me Ne Frego’ in 2020 (8th), and ‘Domenica’ in 2022 (14th). Notably, he also competed in Eurovision 2022 for San Marino with ‘Stripper’, which placed 14th in semi final two. He chose his stage name as inspiration from the Neapolitan shipowner, as people used to compare their names in his youth. Born in 1990, he grew up in Rome, and moved to a commune with his producer brother when he was 14, and his passion for music was born. Initially entering the world of underground rap, Lauro’s sound has progressed through the years through such genres as trap, hip-hop, and rock. Known for his extravagant looks and stage shows, there is no doubt we can expect something eye-catching here. He currently boasts 2.4 million monthly listeners on Spotify.
He will be competing with the song ‘Incoscienti giovani‘ (Reckless youth) written by himself, Danien, Davide Simonetta, Gregorio Calculli, Gow Tribe, Paolo Antonacci, and Simon P. Diluting the rock sound of his other entries, he presents a nostaglic nod to his parting youth.
Bresh – ‘La tana del granchio’
Singer-songwriter and rapper Bresh, pseudonym of Andrea Brasi, makes his debut in the contest this year. Born in 1996 in Lavagna, Liguria, he began as an artist between the ages of 15-16 publishing mixtapes and projects with other local emerging rappers. After completing his studies, he moved to Milan when he was 19, and has developed his career since with various singles and albums, he is a member of the Drilliguria collective, alongside the most famous rap artists from Liguria of his generation, as well as the Milan collective Zona4gang. He has sold over one million singles in Italy, topping the singles chart twice, and earning the Lunezia Prize for musical and lyrical merit. Much of his pop/rap and hip-hop music can be categorised as autobiographical, overall earning 2.7 million monthly listeners on Spotify.
He will be participating with his song ‘La tana del granchio‘ (The crab’s den) written by himself, J_Dibla, Jiz, and Shune. It is a classic but intense Sanremo ballad.
Brunori Sas – ‘L’albero delle noci’
Dario Brunori, known as Brunori Sas, is a singer-songwriter, composer, producer, and multi-instrumentalist from Cosenza, Calabria. He is making his debut in the contest this year. His stage name pays tribute to his parents’ construction company of the same name. He earned a degree in Economics and Commerce from the University of Siena, making his recording debut in 2003 with Italian-Swiss collective Minuta, and then founding dream-pop band Blume. Dabbling in many songwriting and performing projects over the years, he also has a number one album under his belt with ‘Cip!’. Furthermore, he supports many charity campaigns such as UNICEF, and has made a few film cameos. His indie pop currently has close to 670,000 monthly listeners on Spotify.
He will be competing with the song ‘L’albero delle noci‘ (The walnut tree) written by himself. The entry is a Bob Dylan-like poem about his fatherhood.
Clara – ‘Febbre’
Clara Soccini, known mononymously, is a singer-songwriter, actress, and model from Varese, Lombardy. She previously competed just last year, placing 24th with ‘Diamanti grezzi’ after winning Sanremo Giovani 2023 with the song ‘Boulevard’. Born in 1999, she took singing and piano lessons during high school, and began to pursue a music career after having moved to Milan in 2020 for modelling work. She is also one of the stars of the huge series Mare Fuori as ‘Giulia/Crazy J’. Following on from Sanremo 2024 and the release of her debut album, she has spent the summer performing on music shows, sang at the Venice International Film Festival opening ceremony, and has won the Billboard Italia Women in Music rising star award. Her urban pop currently has 1.2 million monthly listeners on Spotify.
She will be participating with the song ‘Febbre‘ (Fever) written by herself, Dario Faini, Federica Abbate, Jacopo Et, and Madame. A potential hit, Madame’s sound is supposedly clear in this entry.
Coma_Cose – ‘Cuoricini’
Coma_Cose are a musical duo formed of Fausto Lama (Fausto Zanardelli, born in 1978) and California (Francesca Mesiano, born in 1990). They previously competed in Sanremo twice, with ‘Fiamme negli occhi’ in 2021 (20th), and ‘L’addio’ in 2023 (13th). A married couple in real life, the duo formed in 2016 in Milan. Fausto had temporary put his career (he had worked as a sound engineer, and went on to release his own music) on pause, and was convinced to begin again by California, who he met by chance as they both worked in retail. Over the years, the pair have developed their career performing on shows, collaborating, and releasing various projects. They also appeared as themselves in the Netflix series Summertime in 2020. To date, their indie-pop and pop-rap has earned 1.4 million monthly listeners on Spotify.
They will be competing with the song ‘Cuoricini‘ (Little hearts) written by themselves, Antonio Filippelli, and Manilardi Gianmarco. It has a pressing rhythm and promises a cute stage show.
Elodie – ‘Dimenticarsi alle 7’
Elodie Di Patrizi, known simply as Elodie, is a singer-songwriter and actress from Rome, Lazio. She has previously participated three times, with ‘Tutta colpa mia’ in 2017 (8th), ‘Andromeda’ in 2020 (7th), and ‘Due’ in 2023 (9th). She was born to an Italian father and a French Creole mother (originally from Guadeloupe) in 1990. In 2008, she auditioned to join X Factor Italia, but was excluded before the live show. In 2016, she placed second in Amici di Maria De Filippi, and rose to prominence with her Sanremo debut the following year. Throughout her career she has released numerous albums, has gained multiple music certifications, and has been nominated at the MTV Europe Music Awards thrice. She also made her award-winning film debut in 2022, playing the lead in ‘Ti mangio il cuore’. Her pop, contemporary, and R&B style has earned her 3.1 million monthly listeners on Spotify.
She will be participating with the song ‘Dimenticarsi alle 7‘ (Forget at 7) written by herself, Davide Petrella, and Davide Simonetta. It is a dramatic and mature ballad with impressive production.
Fedez – ‘Battito’
Federico Leonardo Lucia, or Fedez, is a rapper and television personality from Milan, Lombardy. He previously competed in 2021 alongside fellow competitor Francesca Michielin with ‘Chiamami per nome’ (2nd). Born in 1989, he attended an arts school in his youth, but ended up leaving. Releasing his first mixtape in 2007, he has gone on to create multiple projects and collaborations. Over his long career, he has received multiple certifications, lit up charts, and been nominated for, as well as winning many awards. He also launched independent label Newtopia with J-Ax, and was a judge on X Factor Italia. Also known for his marriage and family with influencer and blogger Chiara Ferragni, the pair had their own show called The Ferragnez. Overall, his pop and electro-rap has earned 2.5 million monthly listeners on Spotify.
He will be competing with the song ‘Battito‘ (Beating) written by himself, Alessandro La Cava, Cripowski, and Federica Abbate. Almost a ‘vent’, this song has personal lyrics discussing Fedez’ medication and illness.
Francesca Michielin – ‘Fango in paradiso’
Francesca Michielin is a singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist from Bassano del Grappa, Veneto. She has previously competed twice with ‘Chiamami per nome’ (alongside Fedez) in 2021 (2nd), and ‘Nessun grado di separazione’ in 2016 (2nd), the latter entry also competing in Eurovision 2016 as ‘No degree of separation’ (16th). Born in 1995, she began by singing in local choirs, as well as playing bass in a student band. In 2012, she won X Factor Italia, which she has since hosted. Her extensive career has been powered by such influences as the Red Hot Chili Peppers (thanks to her brother igniting an interest in rock), acoustic singer-songwriters, pop artists, and composers. She also has an interest in Formula 1, football, and environmental issues. Above all, her pop has gathered around 586,000 monthly listeners on Spotify.
She will be participating with the song ‘Fango in paradiso‘ (Mud in heaven) written by herself, Alessandro Raina, and Davide Simonetta. A cinematic sweet ballad that has been compared to ‘Solite chiacchiere’ (the song linked above), the entry is supposedly a grower.
Francesco Gabbani – ‘Viva la vita’
Francesco Gabbani is a singer-songwriter, musician, and multi-instrumentalist from Carrara, Tuscany. He previously competed in 2020 with ‘Viceversa’ (2nd), and 2017 with ‘Occidentali’s Karma’ (1st), which went on to place 6th in Eurovision 2017. He also won the newcomers’ contest with ‘Amen’ in 2016. He became the first singer in history to win the two main categories of Sanremo in two consecutive editions. Born in 1982, he was introduced to music at a young age due to his family owning an instrument shop, playing instruments growing up and working as a sound engineer and stage technician. Beginning in the collective Trikobalto, he opened for Oasis and supported Stereophonics before embarking on a solo career. He has amassed many awards and certifications, and also notably has one of the most viewed Eurovision entries of all time on Youtube (‘Occidentali’s Karma’ to date has 285 million views). His pop, synth-pop, and electro-pop has earned him 1.2 million monthly listeners on Spotify.
He will be competing with the song ‘Viva la vita‘ (Long live life) written by himself, Andrea Vittori, Claudio Gabelloni, Davide Simonetta, Giuseppe Zito, and Pacifico. It is a positive song with retro soul vibes.
Gaia – ‘Chiamo io chiami tu’
Gaia Gozzi, known mononymously, is a singer-songwriter from Guastalla, Emilia-Romagna. She previously competed in 2021, placing 19th with ‘Cuore amaro’. Born in 1997, she holds a duel Italian-Brazilian citizenship, as she was born to a Brazilian mother and an Italian father. She rose to fame in 2016 placing second in X Factor Italia, and went on to win Amici di Maria De Filippi in 2020. The following year, she was named one of five Italians under 30 who will have the greatest future impact in the music industry by Forbes Italia. She has also taken part in soundtrack and dubbing work, notably in the Disney film Wish. She speaks fluent Portuguese, and her work draws from Latin American music, urban, and pop. Overall, she currently has 1.6 million monthly listeners on Spotify.
She will be participating with the song ‘Chiamo io chiami tu‘ (I call you call) written by herself, Davide Petrella, and Zef. Her Brazilian nationality shines through this upcoming radio hit.
Giorgia – ‘La cura per me’
Giorgia Todrani, known mononymously, is a singer-songwriter and producer from Rome, Lazio. She debuted in the contest in the newcomers section in 1994 with ‘E poi’ (7th), then entered the main contest in 1995 with ‘Come saprei’ (1st), 1996 with ‘Strano il mio destino’ (3rd), 2001 with ‘Di sole e d’azzurro’ (2nd), and 2023 with ‘Parole dette male’ (6th). Born in 1971, her father was one half of music duo Juli & Julie. She took part in her first recording in 1979, and began professionally training aged 16. She initially graduated from a linguistics high school and aimed to become a teacher before launching her career through Sanremo. She is a UNICEF ambassador, an environmentalist, founded a cat shelter, and has collaborated on numerous charity songs and concerts. In 2023, she made her acting debut in the film Scordato. Above all, she is considered one of the greatest Italian artists and has incredible vocal skills, as well as enjoying both domestic and international success with over 10 million records sold. Her pop, rhythm and blues, and soul has earned 2.5 million monthly listeners on Spotify.
She will be competing with the song ‘La cura per me‘ (The cure for me) written by Blanco (6th in Eurovision 2022 with ‘Brividi‘) and Michelangelo. The minimal production and her excellent voice pair to present a top contender.
Irama – ‘Lentamente’
Filippo Maria Fanti, or Irama, is a singer-songwriter and rapper from Carrara, Tuscany. He began his Sanremo journey in the 2016 newcomers section with ‘Cosa resterà’ (eliminated), and went on to enter in 2019 with ‘La ragazza con il cuore di latta’ (7th), 2021 with ‘La genesi del tuo colore’ (5th), 2022 with ‘Ovunque sarai’ (4th), and just last year with ‘Tu no’ (5th). Born in 1995, his stage name is an anagram of his middle name, as well as meaning ‘rhythm’ in Malay. Following on from a series of collaborations, he won Amici di Maria De Filippi in 2018, as well as Amici speciali in 2020. Among his accolades, he has topped the charts, and sold over four million units. His pop, dance, urban, and rap blend has earned 1.9 million monthly listeners on Spotify.
He will be participating with the song ‘Lentamente‘ (Slowly) written by himself, Blanco (6th in Eurovision 2022 with ‘Brividi‘), Giuseppe Colonnelli, and Michele Zocca. It has been said that Irama will be presenting a “similar formula” this year to his recent attempts, so one can expect a strong ballad.
Joan Thiele – ‘Eco’
Alessandra Joan Thiele, known simply as Joan Thiele, is a singer-songwriter from Desenzano del Garda, Lombardy, making her debut this year. Born in 1991 to an Italian mother and a Swiss-Colombian father, she grew up between Colombia, Canada, the Caribbean, England, and Lake Garda, which reflects in her music production. Whilst in London, she began pursuing music, before moving to Milan and releasing her own projects, as well as partaking in collaborations. In 2023, she won the David di Donatello for Best Original Song award for ‘Proiettili (ti mangio il cuore)’, the soundtrack song for the film Ti mangio il cuore. Her unique blend of alternative R&B, contemporary R&B, and pop boasts around 227,000 monthly listeners on Spotify.
She will be competing with the song ‘Eco‘ (Echo) written by herself, Federica Abbate, Emanuele Felice Triglia, and Zef. A unique entry with an international flair, it has a catchy beat and distinct singing style.
Lucio Corsi – ‘Volevo essere un duro’
Singer-songwriter and musician Lucio Corsi also makes his Sanremo debut this year. Born in 1993 in Grosseto, Tuscany, he developed a passion for music by watching the Blues Brothers as a child, and began writing songs from a young age. He performed in local clubs and squares in as early as 2011. After graduating from high school, he moved to Milan with the aim of pursuing a music career. In 2017, he was a finalist in the Musicultura festival with the song ‘Altalena Boy’, and the following year he took part in the music event When Mediterranean Meets the Gulf. His song ‘Tu sei il mattino’ was featured in the soundtrack of the series Vita da Carlo. His award-winning style has been compared to such celebrities as David Bowie and Tim Burton, and from folk pop to singer-songwriter to glam rock, he has earned 148,000 monthly listeners on Spotify overall.
He will be participating with the song ‘Volevo essere un duro‘ (I wanted to be a tough guy) written by himself and Tommaso Sabatini. A pure entry about his differences to others, it has apparently been called “left-field”.
Marcella Bella – ‘Pelle diamante’
Marcella Bella, also known mononymously, is a singer from Catania, Sicily, and is the sister of singer and lyricist Gianni Bella. She returns to the contest for a ninth time, after competing in 1972 with ‘Montagne verdi’ (7th), 1981 with ‘Pensa per te’ (9th), 1986 with ‘Senza un briciolo di testa’ (3rd), 1987 with ‘Tanti auguri’ (6th), 1988 with ‘Dopo la tempesta’ (4th), 1990 with ‘Verso l’ignoto’ alongside Gianni Bella (5th), 2005 with ‘Uomo bastardo’ (6th), and 2007 with ‘Forever per sempre’ alongside Gianni Bella (finalist). Born in 1952 as Giuseppa Marcella Bella, at just 13 she won the selections to participate in the competition Festival degli sconosciuto, but was invalidated due to her age. After being discriminated against due to her Sicilian accent, she finally signed a record deal in 1968. Throughout her extensive music career, she has also been a judge on numerous talent shows, and notably to Eurovision fans, she participated in Una Voce Per San Marino 2024 with the song ‘Chi siamo veramente’, placing 6th. Currently, her pop, light music, and disco blend has around 235,000 monthly listeners on Spotify.
She will be competing with the song ‘Pelle diamante‘ (Diamond skin) written by herself, Andrea Simoncini, Marco Rettani, Pasquale Mammaro, and Senatore Cirenga. The entry presents self-love in a fun manner.
Massimo Ranieri – ‘Tra le mani un cuore’
Massimo Ranieri is a singer, actor, television host, and theatre director from Naples, Campania. This year marks his eighth entry in Sanremo, after competing in 1968 with ‘Da bambino’ alongside I Giganti (7th), 1969 with ‘Quando l’amore diventa poesia’ alongside Orietta Berti (10th), 1988 with ‘Perdere l’amore’ (1st), 1992 with ‘Ti penso’ (5th), 1995 with ‘La vestaglia’ (15th), 1997 with ‘Ti parlerò d’amore’ (9th), and 2022 with ‘Lettera di là dal mare’ (8th). Born as Giovanni Calone in 1951, he grew up doing odd jobs, and was eventually convinced to sing for an audience. In a bar in 1964, his potential was noticed, and he was spotted by a record producer, leaving to tour the USA under the name ‘Gianni Rock’. His current stage name was later chosen inspired by Prince Ranieri of Monaco, as he was a fan of Grace Kelly. Over his long career, he has sold over 14 million records (and is one of the top selling Italian artists overall), released 31 albums, starred in many shows and films (as well as dubbing work), and has even been awarded the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic. Strikingly to Eurovision fans, he participated twice in the 70s, in 1971 with ‘L’amore è un attimo’ (5th), and 1973 with ‘Chi sarà con te’ (13th). His Neapolitan laced pop has earned 561,000 monthly listeners on Spotify.
He will be participating with the song ‘Tra le mani un cuore‘ (In the hands a heart) written by Giulia Anania, Marta Venturini, Nek, and Tiziano Ferro. It is a theatrical entry (supposedly not out of place in Wicked) with an interesting saxophone solo.
Modà – ‘Non ti dimentico’
Modà are a pop-rock band originating in Milan, Lombardy, comprised of Kekko Silvestre (vocals and piano), Enrico Zapparoli (acoustic and electric guitar), Diego Arrigoni (electric guitar), Stefano Forcella (bass), and Claudio Dirani (drums). Beginning their Sanremo journey in the newcomers section of 2005 with ‘Riesci a innamorarmi’ (non-finalist), they went on to compete in 2011 with ‘Arriverà’ alongside Emma (2nd), 2013 with ‘Se si potesse non morire’ (3rd), and 2023 with ‘Lasciami’ (11th). The group originally began in the early 2000s as ‘Pop Doc’, performing in clubs around northern Italy. Their name was later changed to ‘Modà’, inspired by the name of a nightclub in Erba. After enjoying moderate success, they rose to prominence in 2011 with their album ‘Viva i romantici’. Impressively, they are the only Italian band in history to have achieved diamond status (the highest music recognition), and they have sold over two million records. They currently have around 794,000 monthly listeners on Spotify.
They will be competing with the song ‘Non ti dimentico‘ (I won’t forget you) written by Kekko Silvestre (the leadman). A signature rock ballad, they present an entry tackling a similar topic to Fedez.
Noemi – ‘Se t’innamori muori’
Veronica Scopelliti, known as Noemi, is a pop singer from Rome, Lazio. She enters the contest for the eighth time this year after competing in 2010 with ‘Per tutta la vita’ (4th), 2012 with ‘Sono solo parole’ (3rd), 2014 with ‘Bagnati dal sole’ (5th), 2016 with ‘La borsa di una donna’ (8th), 2018 with ‘Non smettere mai di cercarmi’ (14th), 2021 with ‘Glicine’ (14th), and 2022 with ‘Ti amo non lo so dire’ (15th). Born in 1981, she entered the entertainment industry at just 19 months old, appearing in a Pampers commercial. She had a passion for music from an early age, nurtured by her father (who was in a band), and tutored by Maria Grazia Fontana. She studied and worked in television and film honing her skills, and eventually competed on X Factor Italia in 2009, earning a record contract despite not making the final. In 2012 she composed the Italian soundtrack to the Disney film Brave, and in 2017 she entered the Guinness Book of Records for the greatest number of concerts performed in twelve hours (nine). She has won many awards, and her vocal timbre has been admired by many. She currently has 1.1 million monthly listeners on Spotify.
She will be participating with the song ‘Se t’innamori muori‘ (If you fall in love you’ll die) written by Blanco, Mahmood, and Michelangelo (the singers and songwriter behind ‘Brividi‘, 6th placer in Eurovision 2022).
Olly – ‘Balorda nostalgia’
Federico Olivieri, or simply Olly, is a singer-songwriter and rapper from Genoa, Liguria. You may recognise him as being one of the winners of Sanremo Giovani 2022 with ‘L’anima balla’, and subsequently placing 24th in Sanremo 2023 with ‘Polvere’. Born in 2001, he had a passion for music from a young age, pushing him to study music and singing. His career initially began in 2016 when he formed the collective Madmut Branco, and he released his first solo project in 2017. After then moving to England for some time, he returned to Italy in 2018 to continue his career, presenting a hip-hop, contemporary R&B, pop, and urban blend. Since he last competed, his career has skyrocketed, topping the charts, having a sold-out club tour, and collaborating with various artists, including Sanremo 2024 winner Angelina Mango. Strikingly, his Spotify monthly listeners have risen to 3.2 million.
He will be competing with the song ‘Balorda nostaglia‘ (Mischievous nostaglia) written by himself, Jvli, and Pierfrancesco Pasin. Said to be a potential winner, the entry is slow with a long crescendo.
Rkomi – ‘Il ritmo delle cose’
Mirko Manuele Martorana, or Rkomi (his stage name is a reorganisation of the letters in his first name), is a rapper and singer-songwriter from Milan, Lombardy. He previously competed in 2022 with ‘Insuperabile’ (17th). Born in 1994, he abandoned his studies at age 17, and went on to work as a bartender, bricklayer, and dishwasher. He was introduced to his music career by roommate and childhood friend Tedua, and began in 2012 by releasing mixtapes. Over his career, he has topped the charts various times, and collaborated with top artists, including a recent joint album with fellow competitor Irama titled ‘No Stress’. He was also a judge on X Factor Italia in 2022, and mentored the winning act Santi Francesi. Through the years, he has experimented with pop rap, indie pop, urban, and trap, and has earned 2.4 million monthly listeners on Spotify.
He will be participating with the song ‘Il ritmo delle cose‘ (The rhythm of things) written by himself, Jacopo Ettore, Katoo, Matteo Alieno, Shablo, and Vincenzo Luca Faraone. An entry about a ruined relationship, it features drums that pair with a fast chorus.
Rocco Hunt – ‘Mille vote ancora’
Rocco Pagliarulo, known as Rocco Hunt, is a singer and rapper from Salerno, Campania. He previously won the newcomers section of Sanremo 2014 with ‘Ni juorno buono’, and placed 9th in 2016 with ‘Wake Up’. Born in 1994, he began experimenting with music aged 11, participating in jams and freestyle contests. He initially chose the stage name ‘Hunt MC’ before landing on ‘Rocco Hunt’. His first mixtape ‘Spiraglio di periferia’ featured numerous collaborations, and achieved good success in the Italian and Neapolitan underground hip-hip scene. In 2019, he stated that he wanted to end his music career due to pressure, but went on to continue. He has also been awarded by the Salerno city mayor, and participated in the Italian version of Dancing in the Stars. He currently has 2.5 million monthly listeners on Spotify.
He will be competing with the song ‘Mille vote ancora‘ (A thousand times more) written by himself, Davide Simonetta, Kende, Lorenzo Santarelli, Marco Salvaderi, Paolo Antonacci, Zef, and E. It is an easygoing rap entry detailing his life moving away from Naples.
Rose Villain – ‘Fuorilegge’
Rosa Luini, or Rose Villain, is a singer-songwriter and rapper from Milan, Lombardy. She previously participated only last year, and finished 23rd with ‘Click boom!’. Born in 1989, her father founded the Tucano brand, and her grandfather founded the Remainders bookshop chain. She moved to Los Angeles aged 18, and graduated from the Contemporary Musicians Institute in Hollywood, specialising in rock music. Her stage name derives from a punk rock cover band she then began singing in named ‘The Villains’, before moving to New York and studying theatre and musical arts on Broadway. Since Sanremo 2024, she has starred on the Netflix show Nuova Scena, topped the charts, opened for Coldplay, and won the Billboard Italia Women in Music impact award. She currently has 4.1 million monthly listeners on Spotify.
She will be participating with the song ‘Fuorilegge‘ (Outlaw) written by herself, Cripowski, Federica Abbate, and Sixpm. It is a dark entry with impressive vocals.
Sarah Toscano – ‘Amarcord’
Sarah Toscano, sometimes known mononymously, is a singer-songwriter from Vigevano, Lombardy making her debut in the contest this year. She is the youngest participant this year, born in 2006 to a German mother and an Italian father. She began her music journey studying piano at the age of five, entering and winning various international competitions. With her father’s guidance, international manager Andrea Dulio took her to a recording studio, where she recorded her first songs. Through childhood, she also had a passion for tennis, playing in the women’s C series and winning the provincial tennis championship in 2020 with Sporting Club Selva Alta. In 2022, she was a finalist in Area Sanremo, and won the Vittorio De Scalzi award. Notably last year, she won Amici di Maria De Filippi, and released an EP including a live version of Voilà, France’s runner up Eurovision 2021 entry. Last summer, she opened for the Black Eyed Peas, performed on various summer shows, and was recognised by Apple Music as an Up Next Italia artist. Her dance laced pop has earned 265,000 monthly listeners.
She will be competing with the song ‘Amarcord‘ (I remember) written by herself, Federica Abbate, Eugenio Maimone, Jacopo Et, Mark & Kremont, and Wolvs. A dance laced radio hit, watch out for the high note at the end!
Serena Brancale – ‘Anema e core’
Serena Brancale is a singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist from Bari, Apulia. She makes her debut in the main contest this year, after previously competing in the 2015 newcomers section with ‘Galleggiare’ (non-finalist). Born to a musician mother and former footballer father in 1989, she studied violin, advertising graphics, and jazz singing. At the age of 14, she starred in the film Mio cognato. Following her Sanremo appearance, she collaborated with various artists, moved to Rome, and taught composition, arrangement, and pop singing at the Saint Louis College of Music. Her single ‘Baccalà’, released last year, went viral on Tiktok, and she performed it with Annalisa at the latter’s concert in her native Bari. An upcoming name to watch, her jazz, funk, rhythm and blues, neo soul, and pop diversity has 76,400 monthly listeners on Spotify.
She will be participating with the song ‘Anema e core‘ (Heart and soul) written by herself, Federica Abbate, Manuel Finotti, Jacopo Et, Cripowski. Inspired by the likes of jazz and tarantella, the entry is said to sound like “what foreign tourists think Italy is”.
Shablo with Guè, Joshua, and Tormento – ‘La mia parola’
Argentine-Italian disc jockey and producer Shablo makes his debut in the contest this year, alongside Milanese rapper Guè, Riminese singer Joshua, and Reggino rapper/producer Tormento, the latter having already participated in 2001 as part of the group Sottotono with ‘Mezze verità’ (14th).
Born in 1980 in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pablo Miguel Lombroni Capalbo, or Shablo, moved to Italy at a young age, where he first approached hip-hop. He dabbled in rapping, but eventually found his vocation in producing. Active since the late nineties, he then moved to Amsterdam in 2005 to continue his career. He has toured stages and clubs in multiple countries, and performed with and alongside many famous faces. His hip-hop, soul, and electronic discography boasts 1.9 million monthly listeners on Spotify.
Cosimo Fini, or Guè (also known as Guè Pequeno), was born in 1980, and originally began his career around 1996 with classmate Dargen D’Amico under the name ‘Il Guercio’. They went on to form the group Club Dogo in 2002, which was recently revived. Over his career he has topped the charts, appeared on screen, and even took part in dubbing work in the film Step Up: All In. His hip-hop and gangsta rap has earned an impressive 5.6 million monthly listeners on Spotify.
Joshua Bale, also known mononymously, is an intriguing newcomer in this mix of highly experienced artists. Born in 1995, he approached the music world at a young age, exploring his rap talent, then moving on to singing, soul, and contemporary R&B. A lover of basketball, a leg injury caused him to rethink his aspirations, and at 18 he moved to Milan to try another path. Determined to stay true to himself, he founded his brand FROM DA HOOD with partner Dunkan, as a form of expression and cultural identity. He currently has around 67,000 monthly listeners.
Massimiliano Cellamaro, known as Tormento, was born in 1975, and is the brother of rappers Esa, and Marya. Born in 1975, growing up he was musically influenced by American hip-hop, which influenced his music production. Beginning with hip-hop group Sottotono in 1994, he explored a solo career after their disbandment in 2002, also using the name ‘Yoshi Torenaga’. In 2022 he published a biography named ‘RapCiclopedia’, and the following year began a podcast named ‘Sotto Effetto Podcast’. Overall, he has earned around 687,000 monthly listeners on Spotify.
They will be competing with the song ‘La mia parola‘ (My word) written by themselves, Edoardo Medici, Ralph Lautrec, Roberto Lamanna, and Vincenzo Luca Faraone. Beginning as a gospel entry, it develops into a hip-hop song with 90s flair.
Simone Cristicchi – ‘Quando sarai piccola’
Simone Cristicchi is a singer-songwriter, theatre actor, and writer from Rome, Lazio. He made his contest debut in the 2006 newcomers category with ‘Che bella gente’ (finalist), going on to compete in 2007 with ‘Ti regalerò una rosa’ (1st), 2010 with ‘Meno male’ (7th), 2013 with ‘La prima volta (che sono morto)’ (11th), and 2019 with ‘Abbi cura di me’ (5th). Born in 1977, he grew up with a passion for comics, and turned down a contract as a cartoonist to continue his studies. He served as a conscientious objector, and then as a volunteer in a mental health center. At the age of 17, he created a rock band, and three years later discovered the singer-songwriter genre. Through his career he has won many awards and published many works, as well as taking the position of director in the Teatro Stabile d’Abruzzo between 2017-2020. He also has experience with performing monologues. His pop flair has around 127,000 monthly listeners on Spotify.
He will be participating with the song ‘Quando sarai piccola‘ (When you’ll be young) written by himself, Amara, and Brunialti Nicola. An emotional entry, he discusses his mother’s battle with dementia, and has already been awarded the Lunezia Award for the highest literary value.
The Kolors – ‘Tu con chi fai l’amore’
Music group The Kolors is formed of cousins Antonio “Stash” Fiordispino (vocals and guitar) and Alex Fiordispino (drums and percussion), and Dario Iaculli (bass). They previously competed in 2018 with ‘Frida (mai, mai, mai)’ (9th), and just last year with ‘Un ragazzo una ragazza’ (16th). Originally formed in Naples, they began their activities in 2009 in Milan by performing nightly in the club ‘Le Scimmie’. In 2015, they won Amici di Maria De Filippi and achieved immediate success. They released their smash hit ‘Italodisco’ in 2023, and achieved major chart success both domestically and abroad. Following Sanremo 2024, their next single ‘Karma’ became the most played song on the radio for six weeks, and was certified platinum. After a career of many awards and numerous chart successes, they currently have 1.8 million monthly listeners on Spotify.
They will be competing with the song ‘Tu con chi fai l’amore‘ (Who are you making love with) written by Stash (the frontman), Calcutta, Davide Petrella, and Zef. A potential summer hit, the entry has a catchy 80s vibe.
Tony Effe – ‘Damme ‘na mano’
Nicolò Rapisarda, or Tony Effe, is a rapper from Rome, Lazio making his Sanremo debut this year. He formed the trap group Dark Polo Gang alongside Wayne Santana, Pyrex, and Dark Side during his childhood in which he began experimenting with rap. After meeting with record producer Sick Luke, they were inspired to try their hand at music professionally, and they released their first mixtape ‘Full Metal Dark’ in 2015. In 2021, the group dissolved, with the members putting focus into their solo projects. Through his career, he has topped the charts a multitude of times, and collaborated with many big names. His album ‘Icon’ was the best-selling album of 2024. He currently has 4.1 million monthly listeners on Spotify.
He will be participating with the song ‘Damme ‘na mano‘ (Give me a hand) written by himself, Davide Petrella, Drillionaire, and Vincenzo Luca Faraone. Supposedly an unexpected surprise, his singing style has been compared to the 50s era.
Willie Peyote – ‘Grazie ma no grazie’
Guglielmo Bruno, known as Willie Peyote (his stage name combines the character Wile E. Coyote with peyote, a hallucinogenic cactus), is a rapper and singer-songwriter from Turin, Piedmont. He previously competed in 2021 with ‘Mai dire mai (la locura)’ (6th). Born in 1985 to musician parents, he graduated in political science, and went on to approach music thanks to his father. After experimenting across genres, he landed on hip-hop, and founded SOS Clique. In 2021, he published the book ‘Dov’è Willie? Un dialogo con Giuseppe Civati’. He has often been known to address cultural issues and personal tales through his works. Overall, he has earned around 342,000 monthly listeners on Spotify.
He will be competing with the song ‘Grazie ma no grazie‘ (Thanks but no thanks) written by himself, Daniel Bestonzo, Luca Romeo, and Raige. A guitar accompanies a criticism of political themes and headlines.
And there we have the 29 participants of Sanremo 2025! The winner will represent Italy in Eurovision 2025 in Basel with the same entry they compete with in Sanremo. With a range of experienced and new artists with a plethora of genres, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.
Who would you like to see fly the Italian flag in May? Whose song are you looking forward to hearing the most? Let us know!
