Ornella Vanoni, a celebrated icon of Italian music, passed away recently, leaving behind a legacy that unites generations. Known as the “Signora della canzone italiana,” Vanoni enjoyed a remarkable career spanning over six decades, selling approximately 60 million records worldwide.
Early Life and Artistic Beginning
Born on September 22, 1934, in Milan, Vanoni was the daughter of a pharmaceutical industrialist. She attended various schools in Switzerland, France, and England, initially aspiring to become a beautician. In 1953, she enrolled in the Accademia di arte drammatica del Piccolo Teatro, where she was mentored by Giorgio Strehler.
Vanoni transitioned to music in the late 1950s, debuting with songs focusing on themes of crime. She gained prominence after performing at the Festival dei Due Mondi in Spoleto in 1959.
Milestones in Music
A pivotal moment in her career came with her collaboration with Gino Paoli. This partnership led to some of her most memorable songs, including “Senza fine” and “Il cielo in una stanza.” Throughout the 1970s, her repertoire expanded to include bossa nova and collaborations with esteemed musicians such as Vinicius de Moraes and Paolo Conte.
Iconic Hits and Recognition
- “L’appuntamento” – A timeless classic
- “Una ragione di più” – A significant hit
- “Domani è un altro giorno” – Another hallmark of her career
The 1980s and 1990s saw her continue to innovate, blending sophisticated pop with authorial songs. Vanoni’s signature style evolved, producing hits like “Rossetto e cioccolato” and “Insieme a te.”
Collaborations and Awards
Vanoni’s collaborations included many renowned Italian songwriters and international jazz artists. She worked with figures like Fabrizio De André and George Benson, solidifying her influence in both national and global music scenes.
Festival of Sanremo
As the only female winner of two Tenco Awards, Vanoni competed in eight editions of the Festival di Sanremo. Notably, she achieved second place in 1968 with “Casa bianca.” Her last appearance was in 2018. She also made guest appearances at the festival in subsequent years.
Legacy and Final Moments
Ornella Vanoni’s music transcended generations. Her ability to engage with both older and younger audiences was unmatched. A recent light-hearted exchange with footballer Bonny revealed her lasting impact on popular culture.
Vanoni produced over 50 albums in her career, showcasing her talent and dedication. Her enchanting voice and memorable moments in music, including her heartfelt performances, will forever resonate in the hearts of her fans.
