Recommended Italian bands. Popular bands from abroad.
Italy is the boot of Europe (meaning it’s shaped like a boot).
The music played by Italian bands has an upbeat, take-off-running kind of sound.
Listening to it, your excitement just keeps rising!
Recommended Italian bands. Popular overseas bands (1–10)
I WANNA BE YOUR SLAVEMåneskin
Måneskin is a rock band from Rome, Italy, that has taken the world by storm.
Their music inherits the DNA of 1970s glam rock and hard rock while fusing it with a modern pop sensibility, resulting in a highly energetic style.
Formed in 2016, they gained prominence after finishing as runners-up on an Italian audition program in 2017.
Following their debut EP Chosen, their album Teatro d’ira: Vol.
I and singles like “Beggin’” and “Supermodel” became global hits.
Their victory at the 2021 Eurovision Song Contest catapulted them to international stardom, and they have earned numerous accolades, including the MTV Europe Music Award for Best Rock.
They are a band we highly recommend to anyone who loves passionate rock sounds and seeks free self-expression.
Dedicato A TeLe Vibrazioni
Le Vibrazioni embody the heat of Milan, Italy, through their music.
Formed in 1999, this rock band is known for its original sound that, while rooted in pop rock, skillfully blends elements of alternative and progressive rock.
Their debut album, Le Vibrazioni, released in 2003, became a major hit in Italy, selling over 300,000 copies and leaving a powerful impression.
They have appeared multiple times at the Sanremo Music Festival, placing fourth in 2020 with the song “Dov’è.” In their debut year of 2003, they won both Best Italian Group and Best New Artist at the Italian Music Awards, proving their talent.
Their world of sound—woven from passionate vocals and energetic performances—grips the listener’s heart.
Perfect for anyone looking to experience emotionally stirring Italian rock.
Sole SpentoTimoria
Standing out in Italy’s rock scene, Timoria is an alternative rock band formed in Brescia in 1985.
They skillfully weave elements of hard rock and progressive rock into a rich musical style that at times carries social messages.
They debuted in 1988 with the EP “Macchine e dollari,” and drew attention with the 1990 album “Colori che esplodono.” In particular, their 1993 concept album “Viaggio senza vento” is their signature work, earning the first gold disc in Italian indie rock.
In 1991, their song “L’uomo che ride” won the Critics’ Award at the Sanremo Music Festival.
Their music blends poetic lyrics that sharply observe the human psyche and society with a dramatic sound—perfect for anyone seeking passionate rock.
Tutto quello che hoFinley
Radiating bright energy like the Italian sun, Finley is a band known for its compelling sound that skillfully blends pop punk and alternative rock.
Formed in 2002, their debut album Tutto è possibile, released in 2006, quickly went double platinum in Italy, and one of its tracks was chosen as the theme song for an international children’s awards show.
In 2008, they performed Ricordi at the Sanremo Music Festival and placed sixth; they also won Best Italian Act at the MTV Europe Music Awards in both 2006 and 2008.
With catchy melodies sung in Italian and exhilarating, high‑energy performances, their music is perfect for anyone seeking a jolt to their everyday life or a quick mood boost.
Ringo StarrPinguini Tattici Nucleari
Hailing from Italy, Pinguini Tattici Nucleari captivate many with pop-rock brimming with humor and satire.
Formed in 2010, they evolved from early comedic metal to approachable pop-rock.
They debuted in 2012 with the EP “Cartoni animali,” and gained attention with “Irene” from the album “Gioventù brucata.” “Giovani Wannabe” from the album “Fake News” became a massive hit, reaching No.
1 on the domestic charts.
In 2022, they won “Best Italian Act” at the MTV Europe Music Awards.
Their lyrics, offering a unique perspective on everyday life and society, are a major draw.
In 2023, they proved their popularity by drawing around 80,000 people to a stadium show.
With their witty sound and relatable worldview, they’re a band I’d recommend to anyone exploring new Italian music.
La prima voltaNegramaro
Negramaro, formed in 1999 in the Apulia region of southern Italy, blend alternative and electronica elements into a pop-rock foundation, distinguished by Giuliano Sangiorgi’s soul-stirring vocals and poetic lyrics.
They debuted in 2003 with the album “Negramaro.” The re-edited album “000577,” released in 2004, drew attention for the track “Come Sempre,” and their 2005 album “Mentre tutto scorre” earned 6× Platinum certification.
The title track “Mentre tutto scorre” was also used as the theme song for the film “La febbre.” Proud recipients of an MTV Europe Music Award, they offer a cinematic, grand sound that’s perfect for listeners seeking a stirring, dramatic musical experience.
Passione MaledettaModà
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.