Domenico Modugno
Domenico Modugno was born on January 9, 1928, in Polignano a Mare, Italy. He emerged as a significant figure in the Italian music scene, known for his work as a singer, songwriter, actor, and politician. Modugno's career took off with his 1958 international hit "Nel blu dipinto di blu," commonly known as "Volare." This song won him the first Grammy Awards for Record of the Year and Song of the Year, selling over 22 million copies worldwide. He was a pioneer in the Italian music industry, often regarded as the first Italian cantautore.
Throughout his career, Modugno won the Sanremo Music Festival four times and participated in the Eurovision Song Contest. His musical style was influenced by Neapolitan songs and folk music, and he was known for his versatility and emotional performances. Modugno also had a successful acting career, appearing in numerous films and theatrical productions.
In addition to his artistic achievements, Modugno was involved in politics. He served as a member of the Italian Parliament, representing the Radical Party, and was an advocate for the rights of the disabled and artists. Despite suffering a stroke in 1984, he continued to perform and engage in political activities until his death on August 6, 1994, in Lampedusa, Italy. Modugno's legacy endures, and he remains an iconic figure in Italian music history.