[2025] Popular Italian Artists: A roundup of recommended singers and rappers

Una Vita In VacanzaLo Stato Sociale

Lo Stato Sociale – Una Vita In Vacanza (Sanremo 2018)

Lo Stato Sociale, an unconventional five-piece from Bologna, Italy, blend indie rock and electropop with a distinctive flair, earning popularity for songs that weave together social satire and humor.

They burst onto the music scene in 2010 with the EP “Welfare Pop,” and drew widespread attention with their 2012 album “Turisti della democrazia.” Their signature song “Una vita in vacanza” took second place at the 2018 Sanremo Music Festival, topped the Italian singles chart, and achieved double platinum status—an outstanding feat.

With numerous accolades including the Targa Giovani Mei award and a reputation for energetic live shows, their sharp, satirical lyrics and exhilarating sound offer fresh discoveries for anyone seeking excitement in everyday life and a reason to reflect on society.

Nuotando Nell’ariaMarlene Kuntz

Marlene Kuntz – Nuotando Nell’aria

Marlene Kuntz have been forging their own path in Italy’s alternative rock scene since their formation in 1988.

Fusing noise rock and post-hardcore with literary depth, they craft music in Italian whose lyrics leave a deep imprint on listeners.

Their 1994 debut album, Catartica, made a powerful impact, and they cemented their status with classics like Il vile.

They even appeared at the Sanremo Music Festival in 2012.

Nominated for an MTV Europe Music Award in 2001, they have received high acclaim, with their songs for the film Tutta colpa di Giuda earning a 2010 David di Donatello nomination.

Highly recommended for those seeking sharp, emotionally rich sounds.

Passione MaledettaModà

Modà – Passione Maledetta – Videoclip Ufficiale

Formed in Milan in 2002, Modà is one of Italy’s leading pop-rock bands.

Grounded in pop rock, they weave in emotive ballads and powerful rock, characterized by melodies and lyrics that resonate deeply.

After debuting in 2004 with the album “Ti amo veramente,” they took second place at the Sanremo Music Festival in 2011 with the duet “Arriverà” featuring Emma Marrone.

Their album “Viva i romantici,” released the same year, topped the charts and became a massive hit, certified Diamond.

With an impressive track record that includes an MTV Europe Music Award, the passionate vocals of Francesco are also a major draw.

Highly recommended for those seeking heartfelt Italian pop rock and music that explores universal themes.

IstriceSubsonica

Istrice

Subsonica is an innovative electro-rock band from Turin.

Since their formation in 1996, they have deftly blended rock, electronica, and dance, bringing a fresh breeze to the Italian music scene.

A defining trait of their work is the social message embedded in their music.

They debuted in 1997 with the album “Subsonica” and became widely known for “Tutti i miei sbagli,” featured on the album “Microchip Emozionale.” Their accolades include wins at the MTV Europe Music Awards, and in 2024 they received the David di Donatello Award for Best Score for the soundtrack to the film “Adagio,” underscoring the high regard for their artistry.

Their energetic live shows are not to be missed.

Highly recommended for those seeking music that defies conventional boundaries and carries profound messages.

Vorrei ma non postoJ-AX

J-AX & Fedez – Vorrei ma non posto (Official Video)

The Italian rapper J-Ax.

With his sharp suit and hat, his style is very dapper.

J-Ax was born in Milan in August 1972.

In 1990, he debuted as part of the famous Italian hip-hop group Articolo 31.

Since 2006, he has been very active as a solo artist, releasing as many as nine albums by 2022.

He’s also a popular rapper in Italy, having appeared as a judge on the Italian version of the hit audition show The Voice.

Oggi sono ioMina

MINA “Oggi sono io”

Who comes to mind when you think of an Italian diva? Mina is a national icon who has led the Italian music scene since the 1960s.

With her overwhelming vocal power and expressive range, she has mastered genres from pop to jazz.

She debuted in 1958 and went on to produce a string of hits in the 1960s, including “Se telefonando.” In 1978, she won Best Singer at the Sanremo Music Festival, and in 2001 she was awarded the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic.

Mina’s enduring appeal lies in a voice that hasn’t faded with age.

She’s highly recommended not only for those interested in Italian music, but also for anyone who wants to experience truly top-tier vocal performance.

L’amore si muoveIl Volo

Il Volo – L’amore si muove (Videoclip)

The three-man vocal group Il Volo is known for a style reminiscent of opera.

This song fully showcases their appeal, featuring wonderfully rich, powerful vocals.

Incidentally, their other song “Notte Stellata (The Swan)” became well-known in Japan after it was used in figure skater Yuzuru Hanyu’s exhibition program.