Enzo Avitabile, born Vincenzo Avitabile on March 1, 1955, in Naples, Italy, is a renowned saxophonist, flutist, and singer-songwriter. Growing up in the Marianella district of Naples, Enzo developed a deep passion for music early on. By the age of seven, he was already performing in public, showcasing his budding talent. His journey into the world of music led him to study the saxophone and eventually graduate in flute from the prestigious Conservatory of San Pietro a Majella.
Early Career and Rise to Fame
Collaborations with Pino Daniele and Edoardo Bennato
Enzo Avitabile’s career took off in the mid-1970s when he collaborated with the legendary Neapolitan musician Pino Daniele on the album “Terra Mia” (1977). This early exposure to the music industry set the stage for Avitabile’s subsequent successes. His collaboration with Edoardo Bennato on albums like “Uffà! Uffà!” and “Sono solo canzonette” further solidified his reputation as a talented musician.
First Solo Albums
In 1982, Avitabile released his debut solo album, “Avitabile,” which was followed by “Meglio Soul” in 1983. The latter featured the track “Gospel mio,” a duet with American singer Richie Havens. These early albums highlighted Avitabile’s unique blend of soul, funk, and traditional Neapolitan music, which would become his signature style.
Breakthrough with “S.O.S. Brothers”
The release of “S.O.S. Brothers” in 1986 marked a significant milestone in Avitabile’s career. The album included the hit single “Black Out,” which won an award in Ibiza for the best dance track of the year. This success was followed by the album “Alta Tensione,” which featured the single “Alta Tensione.” His collaboration with Afrika Bambaataa on the album “Street Happiness” further showcased his versatility and ability to blend different musical genres.
The 1990s: Experimentation and Evolution
“Stella Dissidente” and Beyond
The 1990s saw Avitabile continue to evolve as an artist. In 1990, he released “Stella Dissidente,” with cover art designed by famed Italian comic book artist Milo Manara. This album featured a mix of original songs and musical adaptations of poetry, including “A livella,” a poem by the legendary Italian comedian Totò, which appeared on the album “Easy.” The same album also featured “Leave me or love me,” a duet with American singer Randy Crawford.
Continued Success
Throughout the 1990s, Avitabile continued to release music that pushed the boundaries of genre and style. In 1995, he wrote the music for Giorgia’s song “E c’è ancora mare.” His subsequent albums, “Addò” (1996) and “O-Issa” (1999), featured collaborations with artists such as African musician Mory Kante, further demonstrating his ability to merge different musical traditions seamlessly.
The 2000s: Personal and Professional Milestones
Loss and New Beginnings
The early 2000s were marked by both personal tragedy and professional achievements for Avitabile. In 2002, he lost his wife, Maria, a devastating event that deeply affected him. Despite this loss, Avitabile continued to create music and innovate within his field. In 2003, he was appointed the artistic director of the Festival Sentieri Mediterranei, a significant recognition of his contributions to the music industry.
“Salvamm’o munno” and “Sacro Sud”
In 2004, Avitabile released the album “Salvamm’o munno,” which featured collaborations with renowned musicians Manu Dibango and Hugh Masekala. This was followed by “Sacro Sud” in 2006, an album centered on sacred music, reflecting Avitabile’s deep connection to his cultural and spiritual roots.
“Festa, farina e forca” and Targa Tenco Award
The release of “Festa, farina e forca” in 2007 was another significant achievement in Avitabile’s career. This double album featured collaborations with artists like Bill Laswell and Matthew Herbert. The same year, he won the Targa Tenco award for “Napoletana,” recognized as the best album in dialect. This award was a testament to Avitabile’s skill as a songwriter and his dedication to preserving and promoting the Neapolitan language through his music.
The 2010s: Continued Recognition and Awards
“Black Tarantella” and International Collaborations
In 2012, Avitabile released “Black Tarantella,” an album that featured collaborations with notable artists such as Franco Battiato, Francesco Guccini, Mauro Pagani, and Pino Daniele. The album earned Avitabile his second Targa Tenco award and included the song “Gerardo nuvole e polvere,” which won the Amnesty International Award for its powerful message.
“Enzo Avitabile Music Life” and “Lotto infinito”
Avitabile’s life and career were the subjects of the documentary “Enzo Avitabile Music Life,” directed by Jonathan Demme. The film was featured at the Venice Film Festival, bringing international attention to Avitabile’s work. In 2016, he released “Lotto infinito,” an album produced by Sony Music that included contributions from Lello Arena, Pippo Del Bono, and Mannarino.
David di Donatello and Nastri d’Argento Awards
In 2017, Avitabile won two David di Donatello awards for his work on the soundtrack of Edoardo De Angelis’s film “Indivisibili.” He received awards for Best Original Song (“Abbi pietà di noi”) and Best Musician. Later that year, he also won two Nastri d’Argento awards for Best Original Song and Best Soundtrack, further cementing his reputation as a talented and versatile musician.
Sanremo Music Festival
In December 2017, it was announced that Avitabile would be a contestant in the 2018 edition of the Sanremo Music Festival, one of Italy’s most prestigious music competitions. His participation in this event was a testament to his enduring popularity and influence in the Italian music scene.
Legacy and Influence
Enzo Avitabile’s career spans over four decades, during which he has consistently pushed the boundaries of music and collaborated with a wide range of artists. His unique blend of traditional Neapolitan music with elements of soul, funk, and world music has earned him a place among the most respected and innovative musicians in Italy.
Commitment to Neapolitan Culture
Throughout his career, Avitabile has remained deeply committed to his Neapolitan roots. His use of the Neapolitan dialect in his music, his collaborations with local artists, and his involvement in cultural festivals all reflect his dedication to preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of Naples.
Recognition and Awards
Avitabile’s numerous awards and recognitions, including multiple Targa Tenco awards, David di Donatello awards, and Nastri d’Argento awards, are a testament to his talent and contributions to the music industry. His ability to merge different musical styles and his willingness to experiment with new sounds have made him a pioneering figure in the world of music.
Ongoing Influence
Enzo Avitabile’s influence extends beyond his music. His work has inspired a new generation of musicians to explore and incorporate their cultural heritage into their music. His collaborations with international artists have also helped to bring Neapolitan music to a global audience, ensuring that this rich musical tradition continues to thrive.
In conclusion, Enzo Avitabile’s life and career are a testament to his talent, dedication, and innovation. From his early days performing in Naples to his numerous awards and international collaborations, Avitabile has left an indelible mark on the world of music. His commitment to preserving and promoting Neapolitan culture, his willingness to experiment with new sounds, and his collaborations with artists from around the world have made him a true musical pioneer. As he continues to create and inspire, Enzo Avitabile’s legacy will undoubtedly endure for generations to come.
