Gatto Panceri, whose real name is Luigi Giovanni Maria Panceri, is an Italian singer-songwriter born on May 26, 1962, in Monza, Italy. He grew up in Concorezzo and pursued his education at the Conservatory of Milan, where he studied guitar, harmony, and composition. Panceri made his debut at the Sanremo Music Festival in 1986 under the name Gigi Panceri with the song "Scherzi della vita," though it did not reach the finals. His early career included the release of a mini LP, "A cento metri da casa," in 1983 and another titled "Il suono del Gatto" in 1989.

Despite initial challenges in gaining recognition as a singer-songwriter, Panceri's fortunes changed when a demo of his song "Canterò per te" reached the renowned Italian singer Mina, who included it in her album "Uiallalla." This exposure led to his first recording contract. His debut album, "Cavoli amari," was released in 1991, featuring the song "Aiuto," which he performed at the Festivalbar that year. In 1992, he participated in the Sanremo Music Festival with "L'amore va oltre," a song dedicated to a couple of his friends, one of whom was disabled.

Panceri's 1993 album "Succede a chi ci crede" included the successful track "Abita in te," later covered by Marco Borsato. He also gained recognition for his songwriting, contributing to Andrea Bocelli and Giorgia's hit "Vivo per lei" and writing songs for Giorgia's album "Come Thelma e Louise" in 1995. His 1995 album "Impronte digitali" featured new material and his greatest hits. In 1997, he released "Stellina," which achieved gold status with over 90,000 copies sold.

Panceri returned to the Sanremo Music Festival in 1999 with "Dove dov'è," which was part of his album "Cercasi amore." The same year, he won the critics' prize at "Un disco per l'estate" with the song "Anello di fumo." His 2001 album "Vibrazioni" included singles such as "Sdraiati dentro di me." Throughout his career, Panceri has released numerous albums and singles, contributing significantly to the Italian pop music scene.