Francesco Gabbani made his much-anticipated return to the Ariston stage tonight with his second performance of "Viva la Vita" at the Sanremo Festival. Known for blending catchy melodies with deep, reflective lyrics, Gabbani delivered a captivating performance celebrating life and encouraging the audience to embrace every moment fully.
The essence of "Viva la Vita" can be described as an anthem to existence itself, urging listeners to enjoy each instant and not take anything for granted. The lyrics highlight the importance of cherishing the small things and recognizing beauty in the ordinary. Phrases such as "Viva la vita finché ce n’è" stress the necessity of living in the present and embracing every experience with gratitude.
The song addresses universal themes such as the purpose of life and the acceptance of its inherent uncertainties. Gabbani articulated, "And I believe the path to this serenity goes through acceptance, recognizing there are questions to which I may never find answers: Who are we? Why are we here? What is the meaning of our lives? These are universal issues we all share."
The lyrics themselves are rich with poetic imagery, calling out the transience of life and the beauty of shared experiences. Lines like "We are but a moment between forever and nevermore" capture both the fleeting nature of existence and its eternal significance.
"Viva la Vita" continues Gabbani's legacy at the Sanremo Festival; he previously triumphed with "Amen" back in 2016, followed by his iconic "Occidentali’s Karma" win in 2017 and even securing second place with "Viceversa" in 2020. Each of these songs has showcased his unique ability to combine lightheartedness with profundity, establishing him as one of the festival's most notable performers.
This year, Gabbani's entry signifies not just another song but marks the dawn of a new chapter in his career. He has stated, "I felt the strong need to convey an approach reflecting who I am today. It's oriented toward serenity because I understood my aspirations are no longer tied to material or ephemeral success. I’m focused on reaching balance, inner peace."
His new track is part of his upcoming album, "Dalla Tua Parte," which is set for release on February 21. Gabbani will also collaborate with fellow artist Tricarico during the cover and duet night, performing "Io sono Francesco," adding another layer of interaction during this celebrated event.
Regarding the lyricism of "Viva la Vita," Gabbani himself noted, "It’s about living life for all it is, acknowledging our shared humanity. Lines such as 'Together, two paralyses will create movement' explore how the connections we form can inspire progress, even when facing personal struggles or uncertainties."
The upbeat and vibrant performance style Gabbani is known for was evident as he engaged the audience, who were both present at the theater and watching at home. It's this interaction, paired with the song’s joyful message, which resonates deeply with listeners. Gabbani's distinct flair often turns seemingly cheerful songs like "Viva la Vita"—a beautiful homage to existence—into catalysts for self-reflection and consideration of life's broader meaning.
While Gabbani's music is marked by its liveliness and fun, the underlying philosophical queries he presents don’t go unnoticed. According to Gabbani, the lyrics evoke reminders about the beauty of fleeting moments, encouraging individuals to make the most of their time here on Earth. His catchy refrain—"Viva la vita this life is just a heartbeat, a long heartbeat"—sums up this message beautifully.
With the Sanremo Festival showcasing some of Italy's most talented performers, Gabbani continues to stand out as he shares poignant messages through his vibrant performances. This year's entry harkens back to his earlier hits, combining philosophical depth with infectious energy, securing his position as not only a participant but also as a long-standing figure within the festival.
"Viva la Vita" encapsulates living fully, appreciating each moment, and recognizing the transient beauty of life's various experiences. Gabbani's message is clear: to truly live is to embrace both the experiences of joy and those of uncertainty, reminding us all to be grateful for the time we have.
Through performance after performance, Gabbani proves he’s not just delivering music but advocating for mindful living, urging us, without reluctance, to enjoy life like each day might be our last. With "Viva la Vita," he perhaps invites us to "live life as it is," as he eloquently puts it.