Rocco Hunt and Clementino captivated the audience during the fourth night of Sanremo 2025, dedicated to cover songs, by honoring Pino Daniele with their vibrant interpretation of "Yes I Know My Way." This tribute was more than just nostalgic; it highlighted their deep-rooted connections to their Neapolitan heritage and celebrated the legacy of one of the most prominent singer-songwriters of Naples, who passed away ten years ago.
The powerful performance showcased Rocco Hunt and Clementino's remarkable vocal blend and rap styles, infused with the blues and funk elements characteristic of the original composition. The arrangement preserved the essence of Daniele's version, yet added contemporary overtones, making it feel fresh and engaging for today’s audience. "Yes I Know My Way," written and penned by Pino Daniele, first appeared on his 1981 album, Vai Mò. The song is known for its mix of blues and fusion, along with lyrics delivered in Neapolitan and English, expressing themes of independence and self-awareness.
The two artists were no strangers to Pino Daniele, who affectionately referred to them as "the two little rascals of rap" back during the 2014 Nero a metà tour. Their performance on the Sanremo stage was not only well-received but also marked the culmination of their admiration for Daniele’s work and their artistic journeys, as they looked to close the circle by performing the song they had once sung with him.
Rocco Hunt articulated the sentiment behind this tribute, stating, "Singing this song we want to close the circle; we performed it with Pino Daniele back then." The emotional charge of the night was palpable as they delivered their rap verses alongside the melodic foundation of Daniele’s song. The audience responded with enthusiasm, providing standing ovations throughout the performance.
The arrangement allowed the audience to experience the true spirit of Daniele’s music, as Hunt and Clementino integrated their unique styles without overshadowing the song's original message. The lyrics, which call on listeners to remain true to themselves and persevere through hardships, resonate powerfully, reflecting the artists’ intentions and the enduring relevance of Daniele's artistry.
Clementino, recognizing the importance of the tribute, expressed, "We’re sure Pino, from up there, would have a laugh about us." Both artists emphasized the impact Daniele had on their crafts and the Naples music scene, fostering pride for their roots and the evolution of their sound influenced by the legendary singer-songwriter.
The significance of the song was not merely sentimental; it encapsulated the essence of freedom and determination, as Rocco Hunt noted about Daniele’s music. This tribute not only revived the connection between the current generation and the foundations laid by Pino Daniele but also showcased the timeless quality of his work and its relevance to contemporary audiences.
During interviews, they shared insights about their personal experiences and the influence Daniele had on them. Clementino recounted how he was honored to sing alongside Hunt, reflecting on their shared history and commitment to keeping Pino Daniele’s legacy alive through their music. “Yes, it was Rocco’s idea. I had the honor of being invited by him,” Clementino explained, highlighting their collaborative spirit.
Both Hunt and Clementino expressed their hopes to one day collaborate on projects, emphasizing their creative synergy and the influence of Pino Daniele’s artistic approach. Although they acknowledge the challenges of busy schedules, they reaffirmed their dreams of merging their styles for future releases, keeping the artistic dialogue inspired by Daniele flowing.
The atmosphere at the Teatro Ariston was electric, with crowds cheering and singing along, embodying the essence of shared memories tied to Daniele’s music. The tribute was marked by emotional highs as Hunt and Clementino fused nostalgia with modern expression, bridging generations of music lovers from Naples and beyond.
Reflecting on their experience at Sanremo, Rocco Hunt mused, “If Pino could see this moment, it would make him proud, and we were honored to represent him.” The heartfelt tribute cemented the continued relevance of Pino Daniele’s artistry within the contemporary scene, encapsulated through the lens of two artists determined to celebrate their roots.
Clementino summarized the significance of their performance poignantly, stating, “We are here to honor Pino Daniele, not just to perform, but to bring his light back onto the stage, where it belongs.” Their tribute was not only about remembrance but also about carrying forward the torch of creative freedom and musical diversity pioneered by Daniele.
With their innovative interpretations and authentic expressions, Rocco Hunt and Clementino have shown how the legacy of Pino Daniele lives on, inspiring future generations of musicians and allowing fans to reconnect with the music woven deeply within the fabric of Neapolitan culture.
Sanremo 2025 underlined this continuity through the admiration for Pino Daniele, and the electric atmosphere of the audience emphasized the deep-seated love and remembrance for the legendary artist who has shaped the sound of Naples.