italian wave

Italian Wave: Where Synth Pop Met The Mediterranean

Italian Wave, a vibrant and unique musical movement, emerged in Italy in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Rooted in the spirit of New Wave and Punk, it blended elements of synth-pop, electronic music, and Italian pop sensibilities.

The Rise of The Synth-Pop Scene

The movement blossomed amidst a period of political and social upheaval in Italy. The country was grappling with economic crisis and a growing sense of disillusionment. Italian Wave offered a welcome escape, a sonic rebellion against the traditional pop scene.

A Fusion of Sounds

Italian Wave artists drew inspiration from a diverse range of sources. They embraced the catchy melodies and pop sensibilities of Italian music, merging them with the innovative sounds of electronic music, particularly synthesizers. Bands like PFM, Banco del Mutuo Soccorso, and Premiata Forneria Marconi pioneered the use of electronic instruments in Italian rock, paving the way for the movement.

The Iconic Artists

The scene exploded with a host of iconic artists. New Trolls embraced a synth-pop sound, while Lucio Dalla incorporated electronic elements into his soulful ballads. Gianna Nannini injected her signature rock energy, making her one of the most enduring figures of the era.

Humor and Quirks

Italian Wave artists were known for their playful sense of humor and their quirky personalities. Giorgio Moroder, the famed disco producer, was known for his flamboyant style and his love of synthesizers. Francesco De Gregori, a singer-songwriter known for his poetic lyrics, once famously proclaimed that his favorite instrument was the “telephone” for its ability to connect people.

The Legacy of Italian Wave

Italian Wave left a lasting mark on Italian music. It helped pave the way for a new generation of Italian artists who embraced electronic music and its potential for experimentation. The movement’s influence can be seen in the work of artists such as Elio e le Storie Tese, Max Gazzè, and Fabri Fibra.

Funny Facts

• Giorgio Moroder once recorded a song with Donna Summer about a man who accidentally gets stuck in a disco ball.
• New Trolls were so obsessed with synthesizers that they once used one to create the sound of a roaring lion in one of their songs.
• Gianna Nannini was known for her wild stage performances, which often involved her riding a motorcycle on stage.

Italian Wave was a brief but brilliant moment in Italian musical history. It showcased the country’s creativity and its ability to blend genres and embrace innovation. The movement left a lasting legacy, influencing generations of Italian artists and cementing its place in the history of popular music.