Arrivederci, Toto Cutugno: Farewell to the Crooner Behind “L’Italiano”

Saying Farewell to Toto Cutugno: The Legacy of an Italian Music Icon

Italian singer Toto Cutugno, whose hit song “L’Italiano” captivated millions of listeners across Europe and beyond, has passed away at the age of 80. Cutugno, born Salvatore Cutugno to Sicilian parents in Tuscany, made a lasting impact on the music industry and defined ideas of Italian culture through his music. His career was marked by memorable performances at the Sanremo music festival and a victory at the Eurovision Song Contest in 1990. Cutugno’s legacy is that of a crooner who cemented his place in the hearts of music lovers with his unique sound and catchy tunes.

A Decade at Sanremo: The Eternal Runner-up

For a decade, Toto Cutugno was a regular participant at the Sanremo music festival, an iconic Italian institution that served as an inspiration for the Eurovision Song Contest. Despite finishing in second place six times, he gained a reputation as Sanremo’s eternal runner-up. It was at this festival that Cutugno showcased his talent to the world and laid the foundation for his future success.

From “Laissez moi danser” to “Insieme: 1992”

Cutugno’s wide-ranging influence extended beyond Italy. His 1979 song “Voglio l’anima” became a disco hit in France after French singer Dalida reinterpreted it as “Monday Tuesday… Laissez moi danser.” However, his greatest triumph came in 1990 when he won the Eurovision Song Contest with his anthem to the foundation of the European Union, “Insieme: 1992.” The stirring lyrics, “Together, unite, unite, Europe,” resonated with listeners across the continent and showcased Cutugno’s ability to capture the zeitgeist of the time.

L’Italiano: A Song for the Masses

But it was the iconic 1983 song “L’Italiano” that truly defined Toto Cutugno’s career and secured his place in music history. This song, sometimes known by its catchy chorus “Lasciatemi Cantare,” was a cultural phenomenon that encapsulated the essence of Italian life. With references to “spaghetti al dente,” “caffè ristretto,” and a “broken-down Fiat 600,” the song left no cliché untouched. Despite its cheeky and sometimes stereotypical portrayal of Italian culture, “L’Italiano” became a chart-topper in Italy, France, Switzerland, and Portugal, captivating audiences with its infectious melody and relatable lyrics.

Interestingly, “L’Italiano” also gained popularity beyond the European continent. A cover version entitled “I am a Finn” became a hit in Finland the same year, and the song found its way to the eastern bloc, capturing the hearts of listeners in Ukraine, Albania, Poland, Georgia, and Russia. Its universal appeal speaks to the power of music to transcend language and cultural barriers.

A Life Filled with Controversy and Resilience

Throughout his career, Toto Cutugno faced both admiration and criticism. In 2019, Ukrainian lawmakers sought to ban him from performing in Kyiv due to alleged pro-Russian sympathies. Cutugno denied having a personal friendship with the Russian president, stating that he had only shaken his hand after a concert. He emphasized his support for the Russian people but distanced himself from Putin, saying, “I am a friend of the Russians, not Putin’s.” Cutugno’s ability to address controversy with humor and remain focused on his music highlights his resilience as an artist.

A Farewell to Toto Cutugno

Italian politicians and musicians have paid tribute to Toto Cutugno, recognizing the impact he had on the music industry and the cultural legacy he leaves behind. Singer Eros Ramazzotti bid his friend and fellow musician farewell, writing, “Ciao Toto, great Maestro. We will miss you.” As we say goodbye to this Italian music icon, let us remember the joy he brought to millions of listeners and the lasting impression he made on the world of music.

Keywords:

• Toto Cutugno
• Italian music
• crooner
• L’Italiano
• farewell