Duran Duran is set to make headlines as guests at the upcoming Festival di Sanremo 2025. The iconic band, known for their worldwide fame since the 1980s, will grace the stage of Ariston after 40 years, marking their nostalgic return. This news was shared by Carlo Conti, the well-respected artistic director of the festival, during a surprise appearance on Tg1, stirring excitement among fans.
The historic event is scheduled to take place from February 11 to 15, 2025, and promises to be filled with big names and unforgettable performances. Conti, having previously hosted the festival from 2015 to 2017, is returning to oversee the event during this significant milestone for the band. Their performance will occur on the festival's third evening, Thursday, which has been marked as unmissable for attendees eager to relive the nostalgic magic of Duran Duran.
This edition of Sanremo will not only spotlight Duran Duran but will also feature many notable artists across all five nights. The opening night will showcase various talents, including Jovanotti, Raf, and the Israeli singer Noa, who will perform alongside Palestinian artist Mira Awad to deliver an impactful message of unity. The second night promises performances from Damiano David, frontman of the Måneskin, alongside rapper BigMama, who gained fame as last year’s contestant.
The anticipation for Duran Duran’s return is palpable, as they originally performed 'Wild Boys' during their premiere at Sanremo back in 1985. This time, their performance is expected to remind the audience of their lasting influence on the music scene, contributing to the festival's reputation as both a platform for new talent and a celebration of music heritage.
The festival's lineup boasts diversity, featuring performers who have either shaped contemporary music or are beloved for their classic hits. For the fourth night, audiences can look forward to experiencing performances from renowned artists like Benji & Fede, Iva Zanicchi, and Antonello Venditti. The final night will close with exciting acts by Planet Funk and Tedua, ensuring to offer something for every musical taste.
With Carlo Conti at the helm once again, expectations are high. He is stepping back onto the stage of Sanremo after years of successful iterations led by his predecessor, Amadeus, who has been credited with significantly boosting the festival’s popularity. The challenge now lies in exceeding those high standards.
Set against the backdrop of Italy’s cultural fabric, the Festival di Sanremo resonates deeply within the collective memory of music lovers. It is not merely a talent competition; it embodies the musical evolution and celebrates Italian artistry. Each year, the platform unites generations through cherished music and new discoveries, making the festival not just events, but cultural phenomena.
Conti's role as host is seen not just as leading the event, but as curator of the emotional experience during these five nights. The festival has become what many deem as collective rites celebrating the beauty of music and artistic collaboration across various genres.
With heavy anticipation building as the festival approaches, it seems Sanremo 2025 will be another remarkable chapter for both Duran Duran and the festival itself. Fans of the band, alongside avid festival-goers, eagerly await this historic reunion and the plethora of performances scheduled, which promise to deliver spectacular entertainment and unforgettable moments.
The expectation is not just for entertainment, but for the festival to once again prove why it has become synonymous with Italian musical culture. Indeed, Sanremo is where music meets history, and with Duran Duran returning, this is poised to be one festival where every note is celebrated as part of Italy's rich musical legacy.