Sanremo 2025 has kicked off with a grand start, and at the center stage of this musical festival is the young artist Olly, whose compelling performance of his track "Balorda nostalgia" has taken the audience by storm. This popularity was swiftly reflected on Spotify, where he dominated the streaming charts with over 2 million listens, showcasing the powerful resonance his music has with fans.
Olly, whose real name is Federico Oliveri, has managed to carve out his niche in the competitive environment of Sanremo. He performed his song, which details the bittersweet recollections of past love, during the third night of the festival, where he earned his first standing ovation from the audience. This emotional response is not something one sees every day at Sanremo, where only few artists like Giorgia and Simone Cristicchi have inspired such admiration so far this year.
At just 24 years old, Olly has experienced significant career milestones. He first gained attention on social media prior to his appearance at Sanremo Giovani 2023, where he began to build his fanbase. His collaboration with Angelina Mango on the duet “Per due come noi” propelled him to fame, but it is his latest offering, "Balorda nostalgia," which marks his return to the grand Sanremo stage among the big names this year.
What impresses about Olly is not only the relatability of his music but also the dedication he puts behind his performances. "I worked extensively on this piece because I wanted everything to be perfect. It's fundamentally important for me to be convinced of every detail," he shared, illustrating his commitment to artistry and emotional expression. His approach isn't just about music; he prepares mentally and physically, doing push-ups before he steps onto the stage to keep his blood circulating and nerves at bay.
So, what is it about "Balorda nostalgia" that's captured listeners' hearts? The song encapsulates the beauty and melancholy of love lost and resonates deeply with many. It is perhaps Olly's sincere delivery of the lyrics and his raw on-stage presence, which have helped him connect with the fans, leading to the overwhelming cheer from the audience during his performance.
Spotify reported Olly’s song sits at the very top of its daily chart for Sanremo tracks, indicating not just popularity but also significant emotional impact. Fedez's “Battito” and Tony Effe's “Damme ‘na mano” follow behind him, but Olly’s lead is undeniable. His dominating presence has not only set the stage for his own performances but also shaken up the dynamics of this year's festival.
The festival will run until February 15, 2025, with many talented artists set to perform, yet Olly seems to be garnering more attention than most. Even his youthful, approachable image—complete with his signature sleeveless look and mustache—appears to charm audiences.
Reflecting on the festival experience, Olly remarked, "It was such an important gesture, something I never expected," expressing the shock and joy he felt at receiving such overwhelming support. For many artists, particularly new ones, garnering acceptance on such platforms as Sanremo can be difficult, but Olly is rising to the challenge with grace.
The competition is fierce, though—while Olly is doing well, other artists like Bresh are also presenting strong performances. The overall vibe is competitive, with dedicated fanbases backing local favorites, as both Olly and Bresh share their roots from Genoa. Such local pride intertwines with the music, adding another layer to the performances and audience engagement.
Looking forward, Olly and Bresh will be showcasing their admiration for the legendary Italian musician Fabrizio De André, with Olly slated to perform "Il pescatore" alongside the Bosnian musician Goran Bregovic and his band. This connection to De André's legacy could introduce Olly to new audiences and possibly boost his career even more after the festival ends.
Sanremo 2025 promises to be unforgettable, with Olly standing at the forefront of this artistic celebration. His emotional connection with the audience, coupled with strong streaming numbers, ensures he will remain a significant figure to watch long after the curtains fall. With each performance, he cements his place as one of the breakout stars of the festival.
Will Olly continue to impress fans and critics alike as Sanremo progresses? Only time will tell, but at this juncture, his path seems bright and filled with potential.