Jimmy Fontana, born Enrico Sbriccoli on November 13, 1934, in Camerino, Italy, is a celebrated figure in the world of Italian music. Best known for his timeless hit “Il Mondo,” Fontana’s career spanned several decades, during which he left an indelible mark on Italian pop music. His life story is one of passion for music, marked by moments of triumph, challenges, and a lasting legacy that continues to resonate with fans worldwide.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Enrico Sbriccoli was born in the small town of Camerino, located in the Marche region of Italy. Growing up in post-war Italy, Sbriccoli developed an early love for music, teaching himself to play the double bass. His passion for jazz led him to frequent a local club in Macerata known as the Hot Club, where he performed with friends. This early exposure to live performance fueled his ambition to pursue a career in music.
Despite his musical aspirations, Sbriccoli followed a more conventional path in his early years. After completing his secondary education with a diploma in accountancy, he moved to Rome, where he enrolled at the university to study Economics and Commerce. However, the pull of music proved too strong, and he soon found himself increasingly involved in the vibrant Roman jazz scene.
In Rome, Sbriccoli joined the Roman New Orleans Jazz Band, where he honed his skills as a performer. It was during this period that he adopted the stage name Jimmy Fontana, a tribute to his jazz idol, saxophonist Jimmy Giuffre. The surname “Fontana” was chosen randomly from a phone directory, marking the beginning of his transformation from Enrico Sbriccoli to the artist who would capture the hearts of music lovers across Italy.
Transition to Popular Music and Early Success
While jazz was his first love, Fontana began to explore the world of popular music in the late 1950s. This transition was a strategic move, allowing him to reach a broader audience and achieve commercial success. His first significant breakthrough came with the single “Diavolo,” which garnered positive attention and helped him secure a contract with the Hollywood label.
Fontana’s early foray into pop music was marked by a series of successful singles and collaborations. In 1961, he participated in the Festival di Sanremo, one of Italy’s most prestigious music festivals, performing the song “Lady Luna” alongside Miranda Martino. Although the song did not win, it established Fontana as a rising star in the Italian music scene.
In the same year, Fontana recorded “Cha cha cha dell’impiccato” with Gianni Meccia, another talented musician with whom he would collaborate frequently throughout his career. This period also saw Fontana experiment with acting, as he appeared in several music-themed films, further expanding his presence in Italian popular culture.
The Height of Fame: “Il Mondo” and International Success
Jimmy Fontana’s career reached its zenith in 1965 with the release of “Il Mondo,” a song that would become his signature hit and one of the most beloved Italian songs of all time. Written by Gianni Meccia and Gianni Boncompagni, “Il Mondo” is a timeless ballad that captures the essence of love and longing. Fontana’s powerful and emotive delivery, combined with the song’s sweeping orchestration, struck a chord with audiences both in Italy and internationally.
“Il Mondo” was an instant success, topping the charts in Italy and earning Fontana widespread acclaim. The song’s universal appeal transcended language barriers, and it became popular in various countries around the world. The success of “Il Mondo” catapulted Fontana to international fame, and he became a household name, celebrated not only for his vocal talent but also for his ability to convey deep emotion through his music.
Following the success of “Il Mondo,” Fontana continued to produce hits, solidifying his place as a leading figure in Italian pop music. In 1967, he won the Disco per l’Estate (Record of the Summer) competition with the song “La mia serenata,” further showcasing his versatility as a performer. Fontana’s ability to blend romantic themes with memorable melodies made him a favorite among fans and a frequent presence on Italian television and radio.
Challenges and the “Che Sarà” Controversy
As the 1970s approached, Jimmy Fontana faced both new opportunities and significant challenges. One of the most notable events of this period was the creation of the song “Che Sarà,” a collaboration with lyricist Franco Migliacci, composer Carlo Pes, and arranger Italo Greco. The song was intended for Fontana to perform at the Festival di Sanremo, but circumstances took an unexpected turn.
Ennio Melis, the artistic director of RCA, decided to give “Che Sarà” to the popular group Ricchi e Poveri, who were in need of a hit to solidify their standing in the Italian music scene. Initially, Fontana objected to the decision, feeling that the song was rightfully his. However, under pressure, he eventually relented and allowed Ricchi e Poveri to perform the song at Sanremo.
“Che Sarà” became a massive success, both in Italy and abroad, with versions recorded in multiple languages. The song’s popularity marked a significant milestone for Ricchi e Poveri, but for Fontana, it was a bittersweet moment. Although he had contributed to the creation of one of the most successful songs of the decade, the experience left him feeling sidelined and disillusioned with the music industry.
This setback had a profound impact on Fontana’s career. The 1970s proved to be a challenging decade, as he struggled to replicate the success he had enjoyed in the 1960s. Disheartened by the experience with “Che Sarà,” Fontana gradually withdrew from the spotlight, eventually leaving the music industry to open a bar in Macerata, his home region.
A Return to Music and Later Years
Despite the challenges he faced, Jimmy Fontana never completely abandoned his love for music. In 1979, he made a comeback with the theme song “Identikit” for the television series Gli invincibili. The following year, he returned to the Festival di Sanremo with the song “Beguine,” composed by his son Luigi. Although the song did not achieve the success of his earlier work, it marked Fontana’s re-entry into the music scene.
In the 1980s and 1990s, Fontana continued to perform and record, albeit with less frequency. He formed the group I Superquattro with fellow musicians Nico Fidenco, Gianni Meccia, and Riccardo Del Turco, and together they performed classic hits from their respective careers. In 1994, Fontana returned to Sanremo as part of the ensemble Squadra Italia, performing the song “Una vecchia canzone italiana.” Although the song placed 19th in the competition, it was a nostalgic reminder of Fontana’s enduring influence on Italian music.
As the years passed, Fontana’s appearances on television became increasingly rare, but he remained active, performing in concerts across Italy and delighting audiences with renditions of his classic hits. His voice, still rich and emotive, continued to captivate listeners, proving that his talent had not diminished with age.
Legacy and Final Years
Jimmy Fontana’s legacy is defined by his contributions to Italian pop music, particularly through his iconic songs “Il Mondo” and “Che Sarà.” These songs have become part of the cultural fabric of Italy, resonating with generations of listeners and securing Fontana’s place in the pantheon of great Italian musicians.
Fontana’s later years were marked by a return to his roots and a quieter life away from the public eye. However, his name returned to the headlines in the 2000s due to an unexpected controversy. A machine gun that Fontana had owned in the 1970s was discovered to have been used in several attacks carried out by the Red Brigades, a far-left terrorist organization. The weapon, which had been sold by Fontana in 1977, was found in a Red Brigades hideout in 1988. Although Fontana was not involved in any criminal activity, the incident brought him unwanted attention during his later years.
On September 11, 2013, Jimmy Fontana passed away unexpectedly at the age of 78. His death was caused by complications from a dental infection, which led to a high fever that his aging body could not withstand. The news of his passing was met with an outpouring of grief from fans and fellow musicians, who remembered him not only for his music but also for his warmth and kindness.
Historical Context and Influence on Italian Music
To understand the impact of Jimmy Fontana’s career, it is essential to consider the historical context in which he rose to fame. The 1960s were a transformative period for Italy, marked by economic growth, social change, and a burgeoning youth culture. Fontana’s music, with its blend of romanticism and contemporary pop sensibilities, resonated deeply with the Italian public during this era of optimism and modernization.
Fontana’s ability to cross over from jazz to popular music exemplifies the broader cultural shifts of the time, as Italian music evolved to embrace new influences and styles. His work, particularly “Il Mondo,” captured the spirit of an era defined by both its innocence and its complexity, making him a symbol of Italian pop music’s golden age.
Fontana’s influence extended beyond Italy, as his songs found success in international markets, demonstrating the universal appeal of his music. His work continues to inspire artists and musicians, both in Italy and around the world, who see in Fontana a model of artistic integrity and emotional expression.
Conclusion
Jimmy Fontana’s life and career are a testament to the enduring power of music to capture the human experience. From his early days as a jazz musician in Rome to his rise as a pop icon with “Il Mondo,” Fontana’s journey was marked by creativity, resilience, and a deep connection to his audience. Despite the challenges he faced, including the controversy surrounding “Che Sarà,” Fontana’s legacy remains one of artistic excellence and cultural significance.
As we remember Jimmy Fontana, we celebrate not only his contributions to Italian music but also the warmth and humanity that he brought to his work. His songs continue to resonate with listeners, reminding us of the timelessness of great music and the enduring impact of an artist who dared to share his voice with the world.
