[2026] Popular Italian Artists: A roundup of recommended singers and rappers

DifferenteNEK

Nek – Differente (Official Video)

Since his debut in 1986, NEK has won various awards and is notable for his clear, resonant voice and striking blue eyes.

He has released many Spanish-language versions of his songs, achieving hits across Europe.

This song, which says that love takes many forms, conveys sincerity within a calm melody and expresses the strength of love.

Nessun grado di separazioneFrancesca Michielin

Francesca Michielin – Nessun grado di separazione (Sanremo 2016) (Official Video)

The popular audition show X Factor is broadcast around the world.

It’s made up of country-specific versions, and Francesca Michielin won Season 5 of Italy’s X Factor.

X Factor is known for its extremely high level of competition, and since Michielin came out on top, her fundamentals—such as vocal ability and arrangement—are exceptionally solid.

She’s also actively honing her craft as an artist to this day, entering events like the Sanremo Music Festival, and her songs are highly sophisticated.

If you’re looking for distinctive tracks, she’s a must-listen!

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Ryo

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Partigiano ReggianoZucchero

Zucchero – Partigiano Reggiano

Last year, Zucchero, the veteran Italian band that also drew attention for their collaboration with Tomoyasu Hotei, made waves again.

The title of this song originally refers to resistance activities during World War II, but it’s likely a play on Parmigiano Reggiano, the specialty of their home region, Emilia-Romagna.

It’s an upbeat, bluesy number that’s quintessentially them.

Quando una stella muoreGiorgia

Giorgia – Quando una stella muore (Videoclip)

Debuting in 1992, Giorgia is one of Italy’s leading female singers.

Her distinctive soulful voice is showcased to the fullest in this song.

She performs a wide range of material—from mellow, mature ballads to upbeat pop numbers—and she’s quite a capable dancer as well.

L’amore si muoveIl Volo

Il Volo – L’amore si muove (Videoclip)

The three-man vocal group Il Volo is known for a style reminiscent of opera.

This song fully showcases their appeal, featuring wonderfully rich, powerful vocals.

Incidentally, their other song “Notte Stellata (The Swan)” became well-known in Japan after it was used in figure skater Yuzuru Hanyu’s exhibition program.

CanzoneLucio Dalla

Lucio Dalla – Canzone (Videoclip)

Lucio Dalla is indispensable when talking about Italian music.

Born in Bologna on March 4, 1943, he began his musical career in 1966.

He continued to sing as one of Italy’s leading vocalists until his passing in 2012.

His signature song, loved around the world, is Caruso.

Dedicated to the beloved Italian tenor Enrico Caruso, the piece is sorrowful, passionate, and beautiful—qualities that helped it transcend language barriers and win hearts globally, not only among Italians.

Such was Lucio Dalla, the artist who brought this song into the world.

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Yoimachi Jēn

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Ci Sono Molti Modiafterhours.

Afterhours – Ci Sono Molti Modi ( Live @ Mediolanum Forum, 10/04/2018)

Afterhours, who have secured a firm place in Italy’s alternative rock scene, formed in Milan in 1985.

Although they initially wrote lyrics in English, they switched to their native language with the 1995 album Germi, cementing their domestic following.

They debuted in 1987 with the single “My Bit Boy,” developing an experimental sound that distilled noise and post-punk.

Their landmark album Hai paura del buio? is hailed as a milestone of Italian alternative rock.

In 2009, they won the Critics’ Award at the Sanremo Music Festival, and a film theme song crafted by frontman Manuel Agnelli also received an award, underscoring their artistic acclaim.

Their profound poetic world and passionate performances come highly recommended for listeners seeking compelling rock or wishing to delve into the depths of Italian music.