The "Tigre di Cremona," Anna Maria Mazzini, popularly known as Mina, celebrates her 85th birthday today, on March 25, 2025. This iconic figure has left an indelible mark on the Italian music scene since her launch in the late 1950s, showcasing a vocal talent that quickly captivated audiences. Her hits, including "Tintarella di luna," "Se telefonando," and "Grande grande grande" have become timeless classics, solidifying her status as a cultural phenomenon.
Despite withdrawing from the public eye in 1978, Mina's influence has remained potent. Unlike many artists who thrive on public appearances, Mina has carved out a unique path by opting for privacy while continuing to produce music. With over 1,500 recorded songs and more than 70 studio albums under her belt, her repertoire stands as one of the largest in the music world, featuring groundbreaking works such as "Bula Bula" and her latest, "Ti amo come un pazzo" released in 2023.
Mina made bold choices throughout her career, as discussed by her son and producer, Massimiliano Pani, in an interview with Domanipress. "My mother had the courage to make difficult personal and artistic choices, different from what was typically imposed," he explained. "Despite this, she has maintained a privileged connection with the audience, proposing new and bold projects that have captured and united different generations. Today, Mina speaks to an audience that has never even seen her live, but recognizes her for her innovative and sincere spirit." Even while absent from the public eye, Mina continues to top the charts, reaching a diverse audience that spans beyond generations.
Born on March 25, 1940, in Busto Arsizio, Mina's family relocated to Cremona shortly after her birth, where she gained the moniker "Tigre di Cremona." Her music career was launched in 1958 when she performed "Un'anima pura" at the Bussola nightclub in Marina di Pietrasanta. A breakout success quickly followed, as a series of significant singles captured the hearts of Italians.
Though she faced challenges, including being blacklisted by state television after having her son Massimiliano with actor Corrado Pani, Mina's resilience prevailed. Her compelling performances exceeded expectations, propelling her to fame in an era dominated by traditional styles. She cemented her status in 1968 with a live album at the Bussola, marking her first decade in music.
Mina’s subsequent years were marked by both celebration and tragedy, including the death of her brother Alfredo in a car accident in 1965 and a tumultuous relationship with her husband Virgilio Crocco, who died in 1973. She maintained her artistry, ushering in a new era of music during the 1970s and beyond. By the time of her retirement from live performances in 1978, she had firmly established herself as a legend.
In 2001, Mina made a rare appearance in the recording studios of PDU, showcasing her continued relevance in the industry. The video stream of (approximately 20 million viewers) remains one of the most-watched events in Italian history. She was also honored with the title of Grande Ufficiale al Merito della Repubblica Italiana for her lifetime contributions to music.
With a staggering 150 million records sold worldwide, Mina holds the distinction of being one of the most successful Italian artists of all time, alongside her friend Adriano Celentano, with whom she recorded one of her most successful albums, "Mina Celentano," selling approximately two million copies. With 72 studio albums, many EPs, and single hits numbering more than 145—nearly a quarter of which peaked at number one—Mina has made history in the Italian music charts.
Despite being absent from the spotlight, Mina remains a cultural touchstone, inspiring new generations of artists and music lovers alike through her work. As young fans discover her timeless music via digital platforms and cover songs, her iconic status endures—a testament to the power of genuine talent in an era often overshadowed by media spectacle.
Recently, she explored the genre of jazz more deeply, encouraged by her son Massimiliano, who collaborates with top musicians to maintain the high standards Mina set for her music. Reports of a potential virtual comeback via avatar have been floated, but Massimiliano alludes to the need for advanced technology to appropriately represent her legend.
Mina remains at the forefront of artistic integrity, choosing artistry over commerce, embodying a spirit of rebellion and independence. She has expressed no desire to return to public performance. "I do not have to show myself to be present," she continues to embody an elusive figure within the industry – preferred to be known and remembered through her work.
Five decades after first stepping away from the public gaze, Mina's music still resonates with millions. As Italy celebrates her 85 years today, the outpouring of love and respect signifies her status not merely as a singer, but as a living cultural monument. Her contributions to music and television, as well as her captivating life story, encapsulate a legacy that generations will treasure. Happy birthday, Mina—the Tigre di Cremona—may your voice continue to inspire for years to come!
