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Italy has been a key player in Eurovision history, debuting as one of the founding seven nations in 1956. Drawing inspiration from the Sanremo Festival, Italy competed consistently until 1980, after which it withdrew several times throughout the 1980’s and 1990’s. After a 13-year absence, Italy made a strong return in 201, and since then, it has frequently ranked among the top contenders. With 48 participations, three victories and 16 top-five finishes, Italy has hosted Eurovision three times: Naples (1965), Rome (1991), and Turin (2022).

Early Highlights

Italy’s first major success at Eurovision came in 1958 when Domenico Modugno’s “Nel blu, dipinto di blu” (known as “Volare”) finished third but became an international sensation. The song topped the US Billboard Hot 100 and won two Grammy Awards. Italy’s first Eurovision win followed in 1964 with Gigliola Cinquetti’s “Non ho l’età”. Cinquetti returned in 1974 and placed second with “Sì”, narrowly losing to ABBA’s iconic “Waterloo.” Italy continued to excel in the 1970s and 1980s with multiple top-three finishes, including Wess and Dori Ghezzi’s “Era” (third in 1975) and Umberto Tozzi and Raf’s “Gente di mare” (third in 1987). In 1990, Italy celebrated its second victory with Toto Cutugno’s “Insieme: 1992”, a song that symbolized European unity.

The 13-Year Absence and Triumphant Return
Despite strong performances in the 1990’s, such as fourth-place finishes by Mia Martini (“Rapsodia”, 1992) and Jalisse (“Fiumi di parole”, 1997), Italy withdrew from Eurovision after 1997. The country’s hiatus lasted until 2011, when it returned as part of the “Big Five”, guaranteeing an automatic spot in the final.

Italy’s comeback has been highly successful, consistently placing in the top ten. Raphael Gualazzi’s “Madness of Love” took second place in 2011, marking a powerful return. In 2015, Il Volo’s “Grande amore” won the televote but finished third overall, while Mahmood’s “Soldi” achieved second place in 2019, highlighting Italy’s ongoing excellence.

Victory with Måneskin and the Future of Italy at Eurovision

In 2021, Italy achieved its third Eurovision victory with Måneskin’s “Zitti e buoni”, a rock anthem that captivated Europe and launched the band into international stardom. This win underscored Italy’s versatility and ability to stay relevant across different musical genres.

Italy’s resurgence in Eurovision, marked by consistent top finishes and a global impact, showcases its deep connection to the contest and its ever-growing influence in the music industry. With its recent successes, Italy remains a force to be reckoned with on the Eurovision stage, blending tradition with modernity.

Influence of the Sanremo Music Festival
Italy’s participation in Eurovision was heavily inspired by the Sanremo Music Festival, a cornerstone of Italian music culture. Since its inception in 1956, Eurovision has drawn on the tradition and glamour of Sanremo, which showcases emerging Italian talent. This relationship continues to shape Italy’s Eurovision entries, with many Italian representatives first gaining prominence at Sanremo, demonstrating a deep-rooted connection between these two iconic events.

Cultural Impact of Italian Songs
Italian entries have often left a significant mark on Eurovision and global music. Domenico Modugno’s “Volare” is a prime example, having become a worldwide sensation and a defining song of its era. Its success extended beyond Eurovision, influencing international music charts and cultural perceptions of Italian music, showcasing Italy’s ability to blend national heritage with global appeal.

Influence on Trends
Italy’s Eurovision entries have frequently set trends within the competition. For instance, Toto Cutugno’s “Insieme: 1992” not only won the contest but also highlighted the growing trend of songs with a strong European theme. Such influential entries have often set new standards in musical style and performance expectations for future Eurovision contests.

Role of Juries and Televote
The evolution of Eurovision’s voting system, from solely jury-based to the current mixed jury and televote system, has significantly impacted Italy’s results. Notably, “Grande amore” by Il Volo won the televote but finished third overall in 2015, illustrating how changes in voting dynamics can affect a song’s final placement and highlighting the complex relationship between public and jury preferences.

Artist and Band Stories
Each Italian Eurovision participant brings a unique backstory. For example, Måneskin, who won in 2021, started as a local rock band in Rome and gained international fame through their Eurovision victory. Their journey from local performances to global stardom exemplifies how Eurovision can serve as a launchpad for artists’ careers, transforming them into international icons.

Impact of Måneskin’s Victory
Måneskin’s 2021 victory marked a pivotal moment for Italy at Eurovision, as it revitalized interest in rock music within the contest. Their win not only brought Italian rock back into the limelight but also demonstrated Eurovision’s capacity to embrace diverse musical genres, influencing the broader music industry and reinforcing Italy’s role in shaping Eurovision’s musical landscape.

Recovery After Withdrawal Periods
As it was said, Italy’s withdrawals from Eurovision in the late 1990’s and early 2000’s created a noticeable absence in the competition. However, the country’s return in 2011 was met with enthusiasm and success, underscoring Italy’s resilience and ability to re-establish itself as a major player. The positive reception of Italy’s comeback highlights the enduring appeal of its musical contributions and the country’s capacity to bounce back with renewed vigor.

Comparison with Other Major Music Powers
Comparing Italy’s Eurovision performances with those of other leading countries like Sweden or the UK reveals Italy’s competitive edge and unique contributions. While Sweden has consistently dominated with pop hits, Italy’s diverse musical offerings, from classical to contemporary rock, highlight its distinctive role and the impact of its varied entries on the overall competition.

Impact on Artists’ Careers
Participating in Eurovision has often been a significant boost for Italian artists. Success at the contest can elevate an artist’s career internationally, as seen with Måneskin. Their victory not only enhanced their global profile but also led to widespread recognition and new opportunities, illustrating how Eurovision can be a career-defining moment for artists like mega concerts all over the world.

Obviously, Italy’s journey in Eurovision is a testament to its enduring influence and versatility in the contest. From its early success with global hits like “Volare” to its more recent triumphs, Italy has consistently brought high-quality music and artistry to the stage. Its ability to evolve with the contest—whether through pop, ballads, or even rock—demonstrates a deep musical heritage that transcends trends and captivates both juries and audiences alike. After periods of absence, Italy’s remarkable comebacks, including three victories and multiple top placements, reaffirm its role as a powerhouse in Eurovision, shaping the competition’s history while remaining a beacon of innovation and cultural pride.