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

Lontano dagli occhiGianna Nannini

Gianna Nannini – Lontano dagli occhi (Videoclip)

Gianna Nannini, one of Italy’s leading rock singers, is popular not only in Italy but also in Germany.

Her low voice, performances that overpower even men, and androgynous style make her truly dashing.

She’s effortlessly cool, undaunted by age.

Yet many of her songs portray the poignant emotions of women.

Spazio TempoFrancesco Gabbani

Francesco Gabbani – Spazio Tempo (Official Video)

Francesco Gabbani is a highly skilled singer-songwriter who won the Newcomers’ section of the 2016 Sanremo Music Festival.

While he excels in electro-pop and indie pop, he’s also adept at ballads, and both styles have earned him high praise.

When people think of Italian music, many might imagine opera or Latin-flavored tunes, but his songs share many similarities with Japanese melodies, making them enjoyable even for those who don’t often listen to Western music.

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Ryo

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IstriceSubsonica

Istrice

Subsonica is an innovative electro-rock band from Turin.

Since their formation in 1996, they have deftly blended rock, electronica, and dance, bringing a fresh breeze to the Italian music scene.

A defining trait of their work is the social message embedded in their music.

They debuted in 1997 with the album “Subsonica” and became widely known for “Tutti i miei sbagli,” featured on the album “Microchip Emozionale.” Their accolades include wins at the MTV Europe Music Awards, and in 2024 they received the David di Donatello Award for Best Score for the soundtrack to the film “Adagio,” underscoring the high regard for their artistry.

Their energetic live shows are not to be missed.

Highly recommended for those seeking music that defies conventional boundaries and carries profound messages.

Portami viaFabrizio Moro

Fabrizio Moro – Portami via – Sanremo 2017

Fabrizio Moro is a singer-songwriter known for his captivating husky voice.

He was born in Rome on April 9, 1975.

Performing passionately while playing acoustic guitar, he began his music career in 1996.

In 2000, he released his debut album, “Fabrizio Moro.” After steadily pursuing his music, he won the Newcomers’ section of Italy’s renowned Sanremo Music Festival in 2007, making his name known across the country.

The song he entered with, “Pensa,” is still cherished today as one of his signature tracks.

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Yoimachi Jēn

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Ti ho voluto bene veramenteMarco Mengoni

Marco Mengoni – Ti ho voluto bene veramente (Videoclip)

Marco Mengoni won a prize at the Sanremo Music Festival in 2013 and took first place that same year.

In 2010, he became the first Italian artist to be chosen as the Best European Act at the MTV Europe Music Awards.

He is one of the most prominent young singers in Italy today.

AltroveEugenio In Via Di Gioia

Eugenio In Via Di Gioia – Altrove

In Italy’s music scene, one band shines with a particularly bright glow: Eugenio in Via Di Gioia.

Formed in Turin in 2012, they began their career performing on the streets.

While grounded in indie folk and pop, they skillfully weave in elements of traditional Italian music, swing, and dancehall, creating a sound that lifts listeners’ spirits.

In 2014, they released their debut album, Lorenzo Federici.

Their song Tsunami, which won the Mia Martini Critics’ Award at the 2020 Sanremo Music Festival, is widely recognized as one of their signature tracks.

In addition to this accolade, their Critics’ Award at the Premio Buscaglione in their debut year is also noteworthy.

Their music often addresses social themes such as environmental issues, yet delivers them through approachable melodies.

They’re a perfect choice for those seeking music that pairs exhilarating melodies with profound messages, or anyone eager to explore distinctive sounds from Italy.

Sole SpentoTimoria

Timoria – Sole Spento

Standing out in Italy’s rock scene, Timoria is an alternative rock band formed in Brescia in 1985.

They skillfully weave elements of hard rock and progressive rock into a rich musical style that at times carries social messages.

They debuted in 1988 with the EP “Macchine e dollari,” and drew attention with the 1990 album “Colori che esplodono.” In particular, their 1993 concept album “Viaggio senza vento” is their signature work, earning the first gold disc in Italian indie rock.

In 1991, their song “L’uomo che ride” won the Critics’ Award at the Sanremo Music Festival.

Their music blends poetic lyrics that sharply observe the human psyche and society with a dramatic sound—perfect for anyone seeking passionate rock.