Italian Singer-Songwriter Gino Paoli Dies at Age 91

Gino Paoli, a foundational figure in Italian popular music, has passed away at 91. Recognized as a father of Italian singer-songwriters and a key member of the Genoese school alongside artists like Luigi Tenco and Fabrizio De André, he was also a painter and poet. Born in Monfalcone on September 23, 1934, he later moved to Genoa, where he began his musical career in the 1960s after working as a graphic designer. His early hits included 'La gatta' and 'Il cielo in una stanza,' the latter written for Mina, which achieved massive success. In 1963, 'Sapore di sale' became an international hit, despite personal turmoil from a relationship with Stefania Sandrelli that led to a suicide attempt. Paoli's work extended beyond solo performance; he discovered and promoted talents such as Lucio Dalla and Fabrizio De André, and collaborated with artists like Zucchero. He also translated songs by Jacques Brel and Alain Barrière for the Italian market. His career included film scores, notably for Bernardo Bertolucci's 'Prima della rivoluzione' with arrangements by Ennio Morricone, and contributions to Disney's 'La bella e la bestia.' Paoli participated in the Sanremo Festival six times, winning the Premio Volare in 2002 and a career award in 2004, and received the Premio Tenco in 1974. His legacy is marked by his influence on Italian music and his role in shaping its cultural landscape.