Cristiano Minellono, also known as Popi Minellono, was born on March 27, 1946, in Arona, Piedmont, Italy. He is a renowned Italian songwriter, actor, and television writer. Minellono began his career as a lyricist in 1967 with the song "È ancora giorno," performed by Shirley Bassey. He achieved early success with Patrick Samson's "Soli si muore" and Dik Dik's "Il primo giorno di primavera" in 1968.

Throughout his career, Minellono has collaborated with numerous celebrated artists, including Umberto Balsamo, Nomadi, Wess & Dori Ghezzi, Mina, Adriano Celentano, Toto Cutugno, Ricchi e Poveri, Mia Martini, Riccardo Fogli, Al Bano and Romina Power, and many others. Notably, he wrote the lyrics for Toto Cutugno's major hit "L'Italiano."

In the 1980s, Minellono played a significant role in revitalizing the careers of Al Bano and Romina Power and Ricchi e Poveri, writing songs that won the Sanremo Music Festival in 1984 and 1985. His contributions extend beyond music, as he has been active as a creative director and television writer for numerous programs on Fininvest and later Mediaset.

Minellono's work has been recognized with multiple awards, including two victories at the Sanremo Music Festival, two Festivalbar wins, and a Telegatto award for best lyricist. His songs have sold over 150 million copies worldwide, cementing his legacy as a pivotal figure in Italian music.