On May 1, 2025, the iconic Concerto del Primo Maggio returns to Piazza San Giovanni in Laterano, Rome, uniting music and social activism under the theme "Uniti per un lavoro sicuro" (United for Safe Work). This year’s edition, hosted by Ermal Meta, Noemi, and BigMama, promises an exciting lineup of performances that reflect the ongoing struggles and rights of workers in Italy.
The event, which first took place in 1990 and is promoted by the labor unions CGIL, CISL, and UIL, has become a staple of Italian culture, celebrating not only music but also the dignity of labor. The organizers expect attendance to soar past the 300,000 mark set in 2023, with predictions suggesting the crowd could reach half a million this year, thanks to favorable weather and a star-studded lineup.
The festivities kick off early, with music starting at 13:30, featuring performances from the winners of the 1M NEXT contest—Cordio, Dinìche, and Fellow—alongside other emerging artists like Cyrus, Cosmonauti Borghesi, Joao Ratini, Save Our Souls, and Vincenzo Capua. The contest, which has seen over 1,000 entrants this year, aims to spotlight new talent in the Italian music scene.
At 15:00, the main broadcast begins on Rai3, with Leo Gassmann set to open the show at 15:17 with the iconic protest song "Bella Ciao." Gassmann expressed the significance of this song, stating, "'Bella Ciao' is a song that speaks of freedom, and in a time when freedoms are increasingly limited and tyrannies are reborn, singing it today is more significant than ever." His performance is expected to resonate deeply with the crowd, reminding them of the sacrifices made for liberty.
Following Gassmann, the schedule features a diverse array of artists, including Orchestraccia and Mundial at 15:23, performing "La Santa" and "Lu porcu cu tre piedi," and Il Mago del Gelato at 15:32 with their song "Depistaggio." The day progresses with performances from Giglio, who will sing "Cammafà" at 15:44, and Mimì, who follows at 15:49 with her track "Brooklyn." The lineup continues with a mix of genres and styles, showcasing the rich tapestry of contemporary Italian music.
As the concert unfolds, themes of labor rights and social justice will be interwoven into the performances. The event serves as a platform to raise awareness about the struggles faced by workers, especially in light of the alarming statistics surrounding workplace safety—over 1,000 deaths and 500,000 injuries annually. The message of the day is clear: the fight for workers' rights is ongoing and vital.
After a brief intermission, the concert resumes with Noemi, Ermal Meta, and BigMama taking the stage at 20:02 to perform a medley that includes "Albachiara" and "I kissed a girl." The night will culminate with performances from major stars like Elodie, Giorgia, and Achille Lauro, who is expected to bring the crowd to its feet with songs like "Incoscienti giovani" and "Amor." Gabry Ponte will close the event around midnight, ensuring that the night ends on a high note.
This year’s Concerto del Primo Maggio not only celebrates music but also serves as a reminder of the importance of unity and solidarity among workers. The presence of Pope Francis is symbolically acknowledged throughout the event, with messages reflecting his views on the dignity of work and the need for social justice. As the hosts remind the audience, "Music is beauty," a sentiment that resonates deeply in a time when many are fighting for their rights and recognition.
The concert's return to Piazza San Giovanni, after a year at the Circo Massimo, marks a homecoming of sorts, with the historic site providing a fitting backdrop for this celebration of labor and music. The atmosphere is expected to be electric, with thousands gathering to enjoy the performances while also reflecting on the social issues at hand.
As the day unfolds, the Concerto del Primo Maggio will not only entertain but also inspire action and awareness, making it a crucial event in the Italian cultural calendar. With its rich history and commitment to social causes, this year's concert promises to be a memorable occasion that captures the spirit of unity and resilience.