Colapesce, born Lorenzo Urciullo on September 6, 1983, in Solarino, Siracusa, is one of the most innovative and influential musical talents to emerge from Sicily and Italy in recent years. Known for his eclectic style, deep-rooted connections to his Sicilian heritage, and collaborative spirit, Colapesce has carved out a unique niche in the Italian music scene. This article explores the life, career, and artistic journey of Colapesce, offering detailed insights into his rise to fame, the impact of his work, and the cultural context that shapes his music.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Lorenzo Urciullo, who would later become known as Colapesce, grew up in the small town of Solarino in the province of Siracusa, Sicily. His early life was steeped in the rich cultural traditions of Sicily, a region known for its deep historical roots and vibrant artistic expressions. From a young age, Urciullo developed a passion for music, drawing inspiration from a wide range of artists and musical styles.
Colapesce’s musical journey began with his involvement in local bands, most notably with the group Albanopower, where he started to experiment with different sounds and genres. His early work with Albanopower laid the foundation for his later success, as it allowed him to hone his skills as a musician and songwriter. Following his stint with Albanopower, he launched the project Santiago, further showcasing his versatility as an artist.
However, it was his decision to embark on a solo career under the name Colapesce that truly set him apart. The name “Colapesce” is a reference to a famous Sicilian legend about a young man who becomes a fish-like creature, embodying themes of transformation and deep connection to the sea—an apt metaphor for Urciullo’s artistic identity, which is deeply intertwined with his Sicilian roots.
The Birth of Colapesce and Early Success
Colapesce made his debut as a solo artist with an eponymous EP, “Colapesce,” which introduced audiences to his unique blend of indie pop, folk, and experimental music. His sound was characterized by introspective lyrics, melodic compositions, and a distinct Sicilian flavor that set him apart from other artists in the Italian music scene.
In the early months of 2010, Colapesce released his first full-length album, Un Meraviglioso Declino (A Wonderful Decline), which was a critical and commercial success. The album was recorded in Lecce and Milan and featured collaborations with several artists, including Roy Paci, a renowned Sicilian musician known for his work in jazz, ska, and reggae. Un Meraviglioso Declino received widespread acclaim for its innovative sound and poetic lyricism, earning Colapesce the prestigious Targa Tenco Award in 2012 for Best Debut Album.
One of the standout tracks from the album was “Satellite,” a collaboration with the Neapolitan singer Meg. The duo’s chemistry was palpable, and they embarked on a joint tour titled “Bipolare,” performing across various Italian cities in early 2013. The tour was a resounding success and further solidified Colapesce’s reputation as a dynamic live performer.
Artistic Evolution and Exploration
Colapesce’s career has been marked by a constant evolution, both musically and artistically. He is known for his willingness to experiment with different genres and media, often blending music with visual arts, literature, and performance. His second album, Egomostro (Egomonster), released in early 2015, exemplified this exploratory spirit. Produced in collaboration with Mario Conte, the album delved into themes of identity and self-reflection, with a sound that was more electronic and layered than his previous work.
Alongside his music, Colapesce has a deep passion for graphic arts and storytelling, which he explored through a graphic novel project with his longtime friend Alessandro Baronciani. The graphic novel, released in the summer of 2015, was a significant departure from his musical endeavors, yet it was another outlet for his creative expression. The accompanying “Concerto Disegnato” (Drawn Concert), a live performance where musicians played while artists created visual art in real-time, was a unique format that blended music and visual storytelling in an innovative way.
Continued Success and International Recognition
In the years that followed, Colapesce continued to push the boundaries of his artistry. His third album, Infedele (Unfaithful), released in 2017, saw him collaborating with a diverse array of artists, including Mario Conte and Gaetano Santoro. The album was another critical success, with its lead single “Ti Attraverso” (I Pass Through You) gaining significant airplay.
Colapesce’s international recognition grew when he was invited by the Danish government to participate in a skin cancer awareness campaign. This project highlighted his growing influence and the ability of his music to transcend cultural boundaries.
In the same period, his official biography, Maledetto Italiano (Cursed Italian), written by music journalist Pierluigi Lucadei, was published. The biography provided fans with an in-depth look at Colapesce’s life, career, and the influences that shaped his music.
Celebrating Sicilian Culture Through Music
Throughout his career, Colapesce has remained deeply connected to his Sicilian heritage, often using his music to celebrate and explore the cultural richness of his homeland. In April 2019, he participated in the tribute album Faber Nostrum, dedicated to the legendary Italian singer-songwriter Fabrizio De André. For this project, Colapesce performed a cover of “La Canzone dell’Amore Perduto” (The Song of Lost Love), showcasing his ability to reinterpret classic Italian songs while infusing them with his own style.
Colapesce’s connection to Sicily is perhaps most evident in his collaborative work with fellow Sicilian artists. In the summer of 2019, he released the single “Lo Stretto Necessario” (The Necessary Strait) with Levante and Dimartino, featuring vocals from another iconic Sicilian musician, Carmen Consoli. The song was a celebration of Sicily’s cultural and geographical identity, with its lyrics and melodies evoking the beauty and complexity of the island.
In 2020, Colapesce teamed up with Dimartino to release the album I Mortali (The Mortals), a project that highlighted the duo’s shared artistic vision and deep connection to their Sicilian roots. The album included another collaboration with Carmen Consoli, further cementing Colapesce’s role as a key figure in the contemporary Sicilian music scene.
Sanremo and Mainstream Success
Colapesce’s mainstream breakthrough came in December 2020 when it was announced that he, alongside Dimartino, would participate in the 2021 Sanremo Music Festival, Italy’s most prestigious music competition. The duo performed the song “Musica Leggerissima” (Very Light Music), which became an instant hit. The track’s catchy melody and introspective lyrics resonated with audiences across Italy, making it one of the most popular songs of the year.
“Musica Leggerissima” was not only a commercial success but also a cultural phenomenon. It topped the Italian charts and became a staple of Italian radio throughout the summer of 2021, earning the duo widespread acclaim. The song’s success at Sanremo marked a turning point in Colapesce’s career, elevating him from a niche indie artist to a household name in Italy.
Following the success of “Musica Leggerissima,” Colapesce and Dimartino returned to the Sanremo stage in 2023 with the song “Splash.” Although it didn’t achieve the same level of success as their previous entry, “Splash” further showcased the duo’s ability to create music that resonates with a wide audience while maintaining their artistic integrity.
The Enigma of Colapesce’s Private Life
Despite his public success, Colapesce remains a relatively private individual, preferring to let his music and art speak for themselves. He has been described as a man of another era, someone who values privacy and modesty in an age of oversharing. This discretion has only added to his mystique, with fans and the media often left to speculate about his personal life.
Colapesce’s choice to maintain a low profile in his personal affairs is a reflection of his broader approach to his career. He is an artist who prioritizes creativity and authenticity over fame, and this commitment to his craft has earned him a loyal following and the respect of his peers.
Conclusion
Colapesce, born Lorenzo Urciullo, is an artist who has continually pushed the boundaries of what it means to be a musician in the modern era. His work is a testament to the power of creativity, collaboration, and cultural identity. From his early days in Sicily to his rise on the national stage, Colapesce has remained true to his roots while exploring new artistic horizons.
His music, deeply connected to his Sicilian heritage, resonates with audiences across Italy and beyond, offering a unique blend of introspective lyrics, innovative sounds, and a deep appreciation for the cultural richness of his homeland. As Colapesce continues to evolve as an artist, his work will undoubtedly continue to inspire and captivate listeners for years to come.
