Eugenio Finardi, born on July 16, 1952, in Milan, Italy, is one of the most influential figures in the Italian music scene. A singer, guitarist, songwriter, arranger, and pianist, Finardi’s contributions to rock and pop music have left an indelible mark on the industry, particularly through his groundbreaking work in the 1970s and 1980s. His music, characterized by its blend of rock, blues, and socially conscious lyrics, has resonated with generations of fans and continues to be celebrated today.
Early Life: A Musical Heritage
Eugenio Finardi’s journey into music was deeply influenced by his family. He was born into a creative household; his father, Enzo Finardi, was a sound technician from Bergamo, while his mother, Eloisa, was an American opera singer. This multicultural background not only gave Finardi a dual nationality but also exposed him to a diverse range of musical influences from an early age. It’s no surprise that he began his musical career at a very young age, recording his first album, a children’s record titled “Palloncino rosso fuoco,” when he was just nine years old.
By the age of eleven, Finardi was already involved in the recording of two compilations—one of Christmas songs and another of traditional American songs. These early experiences in the studio laid the foundation for what would become a lifelong passion for music.
Musical Beginnings: From Early Rock to a Breakthrough
The 1960s and early 1970s were formative years for Finardi, during which he was heavily influenced by the burgeoning rock scene. His introduction to rock music was facilitated by Alberto Camerini, an Italian-Brazilian singer and songwriter known for his theatrical performances and innovative sound. Camerini, often referred to as “the Harlequin of Rock,” played a crucial role in shaping Finardi’s early musical style.
During this period, Finardi formed a band called “Il Pacco” with Walter Calloni, and they frequently performed in the vibrant music scene of northern Italy. Their performances at venues like “Carta Vetrana” and the Festival of Re Nudo in Zerbo helped Finardi build a reputation as a talented and innovative musician.
By the early 1970s, Finardi had begun collaborating with notable artists like Claudio Rocchi and the band Stormy Six. His work as a session musician, including playing the harmonica on the debut album of “Fratelli La Bionda,” further solidified his place in the Italian music scene.
The Rise to Fame: Transition to Italian Rock
Finardi’s breakthrough came when he signed with the record label “Numero Uno,” founded by the legendary Italian musicians Mogol and Lucio Battisti. Although his first release under this label was an English-language single, “Hard Rock Honey” and “Spacey Stacey,” it was his decision to switch to singing in Italian that truly set the stage for his success.
In 1975, Finardi released his debut album, “Non gettare alcun oggetto dai finestrini,” under the Cramps label, founded by Gianni Sassi. Unlike the progressive rock that dominated the Italian music scene at the time, Finardi’s album was a raw, rock-infused work with politically charged and poetic lyrics. This album marked the beginning of a career that would see Finardi become one of Italy’s most respected rock artists.
Defining the Sound of a Generation: The Late 1970s
The years following his debut were some of the most productive and influential of Finardi’s career. In 1976, he released “Sugo,” an album that featured the iconic tracks “La radio” and “Musica Ribelle.” These songs, with their rebellious themes and innovative sound, became anthems for a generation of young Italians seeking to challenge the status quo.
“Sugo” was followed by the 1977 release of “Diesel,” another critically acclaimed album that included the hits “Scimmia” and “Non è nel cuore.” The former, with its gritty depiction of drug addiction, and the latter, a tender love song, showcased Finardi’s ability to blend hard-hitting social commentary with deeply personal storytelling.
The following year, in 1978, Finardi released “Blitz,” which included the tracks “Extraterrestre” and “Cuba.” “Extraterrestre,” with its themes of alienation and escape, became one of Finardi’s most beloved songs, while “Cuba” reflected his growing interest in political issues, particularly those concerning Latin America.
Collaborations and Expanding Horizons
During this period, Finardi also began collaborating with other prominent Italian artists, further expanding his influence in the music scene. He joined forces with the legendary singer-songwriter Fabrizio De André for a nationwide tour and worked with Lucio Fabbri and the progressive rock band Premiata Forneria Marconi (PFM).
In 1979, Finardi released “Roccando Rollando,” an album that saw him exploring more personal and introspective themes. While some critics accused him of becoming more bourgeois and less radical, the album demonstrated Finardi’s continued commitment to evolving as an artist.
The 1980s: Evolution and Reinvention
The 1980s were a time of change for Finardi, both personally and professionally. In 1981, he released an album that was simultaneously issued in two versions: one in Italian, titled “Finardi,” and one in English, called “Secret Streets.” This period also saw him becoming a father, a life event that deeply influenced his music. His 1983 album “Dal blu,” dedicated to his daughter Elettra who was born with Down syndrome, featured deeply personal ballads such as “Le ragazze di Osaka” and “Amore diverso.”
In 1985, Finardi made his debut at the Sanremo Music Festival with the song “Vorrei svegliarti,” further cementing his status as a major figure in Italian pop and rock music. Two years later, in 1987, after spending some time in the United States, he returned to Italy and released “Dolce Italia,” an album that marked the beginning of a long-term collaboration with producer Vittorio Cosma.
Continued Success and Legacy
As the 1990s approached, Finardi continued to release new music, with albums such as “La forza dell’amore” (1990) and “Millennio” (1991), the latter of which was supported by a successful tour across Italy. In 1996, he recorded “Occhi,” an album produced in New York that included the Italian cover of Joan Osborne’s hit “One of Us,” translated as “Uno di noi.”
In the late 1990s, Finardi explored new musical directions with the release of “Accadueo” (1998), which featured contributions from renowned musicians such as drummer Vinnie Colaiuta and saxophonist Lucio Dalla. The album was reissued in 1999 and promoted at the Sanremo Music Festival with the song “Amami Lara.”
The 2000s saw Finardi expanding his artistic endeavors beyond music. In 2005, he released “Anima blues,” a tribute to the black music that had been a significant influence throughout his career. Two years later, he celebrated his 30-year career with the release of a comprehensive box set titled “Un uomo.”
A Multi-faceted Artist: Theater and Literature
Finardi’s creative pursuits have not been limited to music. In 2008, he made his debut in theater with the production “Sogno,” further showcasing his versatility as an artist. He also became an author, publishing his first book, “Spostare l’orizzonte – come sopravvivere a 40 anni di Rock,” in January 2011. The book, co-written with Antonio G. D’Errico, offers a reflection on his four decades in the music industry and the personal and professional challenges he has faced.
That same month, Finardi returned to the stage of La Scala in Milan, performing in Carlo Boccadoro’s opera “I cavoli a merenda.” He also embarked on the “Eugenio Finardi Electric Tour 2011,” a return to his rock roots that delighted longtime fans.
Recent Works and Ongoing Influence
In 2012, Finardi participated in the Sanremo Music Festival once again, competing with the song “E tu lo chiami dio.” His performance at Sanremo highlighted his enduring presence in the Italian music scene, as well as his ability to continually reinvent himself while staying true to his artistic vision.
Among his more recent releases, “Musica Ribelle Live” (2013) and the studio album “Fibrillante” (2014) stand out as significant contributions to his extensive discography. These works reflect a matured artist who has never lost the rebellious spirit and passion that defined his early career.
Legacy and Impact on Italian Music
Eugenio Finardi’s influence on Italian music is profound and far-reaching. His ability to blend rock with socially conscious lyrics has made him a voice for multiple generations. His willingness to tackle difficult subjects, from political oppression to personal struggles, has resonated deeply with audiences and earned him a place among the most respected Italian musicians.
Finardi’s career is a testament to the power of music as a force for change, personal expression, and cultural dialogue. As an artist, he has navigated the complex landscape of the music industry while remaining true to his values and artistic integrity. His contributions to music, theater, and literature have left an indelible mark on Italian culture, and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans alike.
