NAPLES – Andrea Settembre, the 23-year-old Neapolitan artist, is making waves at Sanremo 2025 with his deeply emotional song "Vertebre." After gaining recognition from various talent shows, including X Factor and The Voice of Italy, Settembre is ready to showcase his unique sound and heartfelt storytelling on one of Italy's most prestigious stages.
Settembre, born on October 9, 2001, started pursuing his musical dreams at just six years old. Initially focused on dance, he discovered his true passion for singing, which led him to join music academies and take part in competitions like Io Canto on Canale 5 at the age of 12. His early success blossomed during adolescence, culminating with his participation on X Factor where he finished as a semifinalist, captivating audiences with his original song "Lacrime".
Learning from each experience, Settembre's artistic evolution has been marked by perseverance. His latest single "Vertebre" is not just another competition piece; it encapsulates the pains and vulnerabilities of youthful love and heartbreak. Themes of loneliness and emotional depth resonate throughout the song, especially highlighted by lines such as "Mi hai detto non fa niente e poi stai lasciando solo" (You told me it doesn’t matter and then you’re leaving me alone). This track channels raw emotions and touches on the deep sense of loss following breakups.
"Vertebre" stands out not only for its lyrical content but also for its rich metaphorical meaning. Settembre likens emotional suffering to physical pain, using the concept of vertebrae to symbolize how foundational issues can affect one's entire being. Settembre articulates this sentiment vividly: "Strappami la pelle dalle vertebre" (Tear the skin off my vertebrae), illustrating the visceral nature of heartbreak.
His performance of "Vertebre" places him among the New Proposals category, where he competes with fellow finalist Maria Tomba. The festival has already sparked significant interest and debates, particularly due to the emotional authenticity and relatability of the songs performed. Fans eagerly anticipate which emotionally charged performance will resonate most with the audience and judges.
Settembre’s stage presence at Sanremo is amplified by his carefully curated wardrobe, which showcases his Neapolitan identity. His stylist, Federica Reali, ensured his look combines flamboyance, elegance, and cultural elements. He donned oversized red trousers, paired with bordeaux leather and white shirt, embodying both youthful exuberance and maturity. This blend reflects the duality of his song's themes, particularly highlighted by his Marinella tie, representing his transition to adulthood.
"It’s all about showing how you can mix street style with timeless elegance," he mentioned, aiming to defy typical expectations within his genre. The representation of his city's rich cultural fabric through fashion choices only enhances his message of cultural pride and personal authenticity.
When it came to personal life, Settembre has kept details relatively private. While there has been speculation about past romantic relationships, especially with his fellow contestant Maria Tomba, he emphasizes the importance of focusing on his music. "I try to talk about my generation's challenges through my perspective. Being 20 today is tough; you’re neither adult nor teenager,” he has commented.
Settembre's ambitions are not just limited to winning competitions; he seeks to showcase the unique sound and storytelling capability of young Neapolitan artists. His song has garnered over seven million streams on Spotify, signaling the resonance of his music with audiences beyond the festival stage.
With the 75th edition of Sanremo showcasing both established artists and fresh talents, Settembre stands as a voice for his generation, reflecting their struggles and triumphs. By revisiting the cultural roots of Naples through his lyrics and sound, he brings authenticity to modern Italian pop music.
"Vertebre" is set for its official airing at the festival, with fans across social media expressing their support as Settembre steps onto the iconic Sanremo stage. This moment not only symbolizes his ascent as an artist but also highlights the depth of youth experiences, poised to leave audiences with lasting impressions.
At Sanremo 2025, Andrea Settembre aims to bridge the gap between youth and maturity, addressing themes relevant to today's listeners. His musical endeavors reflect not only personal stories of heartbreak but also collective feelings of his generation, making his debut at the festival one to watch. Whether he triumphs or not, Settembre’s artistry promises to cement his place within the ever-evolving Italian music scene.