On March 10, 2025, it was announced by Mondadori and the Franco Battiato Foundation, the remembrance of Franco Battiato's extraordinary life is set to be celebrated with the release of his reflective work, All'essenza. This special edition marks what would have been Battiato's 80th birthday, paying tribute to the Italian singer-songwriter's rich legacy.
All'essenza offers readers a curated collection of Battiato's thoughts and phrases drawn from numerous interviews throughout his prolific career. Giordano Casiraghi, who has devoted decades to documenting Battiato's life and work, has taken on the role of curator for this poignant compilation. The book serves as both homage and insight, reconstructing Battiato's unique worldview and the philosophical depth he contributed to contemporary music.
Grazia Cristina Battiato, the late artist's niece and President of the Franco Battiato ETS Foundation, expressed her heartfelt sentiments about the book: "Mi manca ogni cosa di lui, e il solo fatto di avere un elaborato che aprendolo mi faccia sentire la sua voce, il suo pensiero mi fa stare bene, e spero che la stessa cosa avvenga per il pubblico che l’ha seguito e apprezzato." This translates to, "I miss everything about him, and just having this work where opening it makes me feel his voice, his thinking makes me feel good, and I hope the same happens for the audience who followed and appreciated him." Her words encapsulate the emotional resonance of Battiato's legacy, bridging the gap between his live presence and the written word.
The compilation of All'essenza is not merely about music. It delves deep, touching on themes of art, spirituality, and life experiences. From discussions about food, love, and sex to philosophical musings on silence, solitude, and the nature of death, the book captures the multifaceted essence of Battiato as both artist and individual. This rich array of thoughts was gathered through years of archival research initiated back in the 1970s, reflecting Battiato's arduous yet rewarding path to becoming one of Italy's most beloved and original musical figures.
Scheduled for release on March 18, 2025, and available for preorder starting now, All'essenza comprises 372 pages and retails for 24 euros. The book is characterized as the official publication of the Franco Battiato Foundation, integrating years of concert recordings, articles, and press interactions. This solidifies its academic value and accessibility to fans and scholars alike.
Franco Battiato, born on March 23, 1945, in Jonia (modern-day Riposto), carved out a remarkable niche for himself, blending elements of rock, classical, and electronic music with poetic lyrics. His passing on May 18, 2021, marked the end of an era for the Italian music scene. His influence, nevertheless, endures through his music and philosophy, making this publication all the more significant.
With All'essenza, it is as if Battiato himself is inviting readers to reflect on their lives, too. He once said, "Vi posso dire che sono contento della vita che ho fatto. Sono stato molto fortunato. Questa è la conclusione," which translates to "I can tell you I am happy with the life I have lived. I have been very lucky. This is the conclusion." These words resonate deeply, serving as both closing remarks on his life and as encouragement for others to embrace their existence. His legacy, encapsulated within this collection, continues to inspire and provoke thought among those who encounter it.