Lucio Corsi will represent Italy at the 2025 Eurovision Song Contest, scheduled to take place on May 17, 2025, in Basel, Switzerland. This announcement follows the unexpected withdrawal of the Sanremo winner, Olly, who took the top prize earlier this month with his song "Balorda Nostalgia". Corsi, who finished second at Italy's prestigious Sanremo Music Festival, will perform his emotional anthem "Volevo essere un duro" (I wanted to be tough), symbolizing his unique and heartfelt approach to music.
According to the official statement from the Italian state broadcaster Rai, Corsi's performance will be featured during the Grand Final of Eurovision 2025, which will also include 37 countries competing for the coveted title. The Grand Final will be broadcast on Rai 1, Raiplay, and Rai Radio2, with the semifinals airing on May 13 and 15. This year’s contest is particularly significant as it marks Italy’s 50th participation since the contest began, showcasing the nation’s long-standing tradition and commitment to the event.
After Olly announced his decision to skip Eurovision, expressing his desire to "connect with everything happening before moving forward," Corsi's entry became even more poignant. Olly's withdrawal came as a surprise, especially considering the grandeur associated with the Eurovision platform. Nonetheless, Corsi's selection reflects his determination to seize this significant opportunity to connect with audiences across Europe.
Corsi's song "Volevo essere un duro" dives deep emotionally, addressing personal struggles and the themes of self-acceptance, which resonate with many. Sociologist Anna Simone, speaking with La Repubblica, pointed out the song's premise: "The first thing Corsi presents to the public is showing his fragility and his frustrations, something many can relate to. He embodies the struggle of wanting to be one way but feeling like something else entirely." This authenticity is what has drawn audiences to Corsi, allowing his story to transcend merely being another performance.
The song captures the essence of vulnerability, where Corsi expresses sentiments like being vulnerable and not fitting societal standards of toughness. Simone believes this message breaks away from the alarming trend of societal performance pressure, making Corsi's message particularly powerful and poignant, especially among younger listeners grappling with similar feelings.
Social media buzz has already started surrounding Corsi's performance, particularly connected to discussions of bullying and acceptance. Many fans have circulated videos and comments highlighting how his lyrics have ignited conversations about societal expectations and mental health. With the line "I wanted to be tough, but I'm actually nobody," it may strike hard for anyone who has faced rejection or exclusion based on their identities. This song offers solace and inspiration, demonstrating how one can channel personal pain and struggles through art.
Some of the discourse has shifted to questions of authenticity, with internet users urging others to engage with Corsi's message genuinely rather than superficially. Critics have remarked on the irony of individuals who may have once bullied or marginalized those who are different now finding solace and representation through Corsi's work. The conversation expands to include the need for continued advocacy against bullying and the importance of creating inclusive spaces for all individuals, particularly those who feel out of place.
Interestingly, during his school days, Lucio Corsi was never regarded as the quintessential “bullying target,” as some of his former classmates recall. They described him as "original and talented" but acknowledged he was targeted to some degree due to his unique style and interests. Yet, this early experience possibly shaped the sensitivity found within his lyrics, allowing him to express relatable themes of struggle, growth, and acceptance.
The Eurovision event also serves as a reminder of Corsi's latest chapter, transitioning from relative obscurity to broader recognition after the Sanremo Festival. With the support of Rai behind him, he will not only perform but also carry the hopes of many who identify with the experiences and messages woven through his art.
On the horizon, the anticipation for Eurovision 2025 builds. Corsi's blend of personal narrative and universal themes holds the promise of captivating audiences and voters alike. With the showdown slated for mid-May, Corsi's opportunity to shine on the European stage is marked not just by his performance but by the message of acceptance embedded within his work.
All eyes will be on Basel as Corsi sings his heart out, reminding everyone of the power of music to transcend barriers and connect individuals through shared human experience. His song may just resonate with many who’ve felt similar pressures and expectations, encouraging them to embrace who they are and acknowledge their own narratives.