On May 1, 2025, the vibrant city of Taranto came alive with the sound of music and activism during the annual Uno Maggio Libero e Pensante concert. This year's event, organized by Antonio Diodato, Roy Paci, and Michele Riondino, attracted thousands of attendees, celebrating International Workers' Day with a unique blend of electronic music and poignant political messages.
Held at the historic Parco Archeologico delle Mura Greche, the concert marked its eleventh edition, showcasing a rich lineup that included notable artists like Paolo Rossi, Giancane, and the acclaimed performer Tommy Cash, who made waves at the Eurovision Song Contest. The artistic directors aimed to transform the concert into a celebration reminiscent of historic international gatherings, emphasizing the power of music as a tool for unity and resistance.
The event commenced at 14:30 with Acquachiara, a rising star and winner of the 2024 Music For Change contest, who captivated the audience with her opening performance of "Piacere, Sofia." This was followed by a diverse array of acts, including the electronic sets by Riva Starr and Fideles, who brought their unique sounds to the stage, echoing the vibes of renowned festivals in Berlin and Zurich.
Riva Starr, known for his remixes of popular artists like Gossip and Usher, took to the stage at 16:00, setting the tone for an energetic afternoon. Fideles, a project by Taranto DJs Daniele Aprile and Mario Roberti, performed later in the evening at 19:30, showcasing their emotional techno sounds that have garnered attention worldwide.
Throughout the concert, the atmosphere was charged not only with music but also with powerful messages of social justice and remembrance. Riondino, during his address, highlighted the plight of workers, referencing the tragic deaths of three individuals—Daniel, Umberto, and Nicola—who lost their lives in workplace accidents just weeks prior. He lamented, "Over 300 workers have died in the first months of 2025," urging the audience to reflect on the ongoing struggles faced by laborers.
In a passionate speech, Riondino proclaimed articles from the Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, questioning, "What has gone wrong if for so many men and women the word work is still synonymous with oppression and slavery?" His words resonated deeply, as he criticized the current political climate, particularly addressing Premier Meloni's handling of the migrant tragedy in Cutro, where 94 lives were lost, including 30 children.
As the concert progressed, the hosts—Andrea Rivera, Martina Martorano, Serena Tarabini, and the multi-instrumentalist N.A.I.P—kept the energy high, engaging with the crowd and emphasizing the importance of solidarity and activism. Rivera, known for his satirical commentary, and Martorano, a prominent figure in Italian media, contributed significantly to the event's spirit.
The concert not only celebrated music but also served as a platform for political discourse. Riondino's remarks about the situation in Palestine and the ongoing humanitarian crises echoed through the crowd, as he lamented, "The drone sounds in Gaza have become a constant backdrop, with over 50,000 victims. Can we use the word genocide?" His statements ignited conversations about global injustices, urging attendees to reflect on their roles in advocating for change.
As the evening unfolded, the lineup included performances from bands like Fido Guido & Rockin’Roots Band, Teatro degli Orrori, and many others, each contributing to the rich tapestry of sounds that defined the concert. The event was not merely a musical celebration but a testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
In a poignant moment, Riondino dedicated the concert to Massimo Battista, a former Ilva worker and one of the founding members of the organizing committee who passed away from cancer in 2024. His legacy loomed large over the event, reminding attendees of the ongoing fight for workers' rights and social justice.
The crowd, a diverse mix of young and old, united in their shared passion for music and activism, chanted slogans like "Taranto Libera!" as they celebrated not just the day but the ideals of freedom and dignity for all workers. The concert's atmosphere was electric, with attendees dancing and engaging with the various performances, embodying the spirit of the day.
As the sun set over Taranto, the final act of the night drew near. Tommy Cash, the Estonian performer known for his eclectic style, took the stage at 21:00, closing the concert with a performance that encapsulated the event's message of hope and resistance. His presence symbolized the merging of cultures and the universal fight for rights and recognition.
The Uno Maggio Libero e Pensante concert in Taranto was not just a celebration of music; it was a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by workers and marginalized communities. With its rich lineup and poignant messages, the event reinforced the importance of solidarity, activism, and the collective voice of the people. As attendees left the concert, they carried with them not just memories of a vibrant day but also a renewed commitment to advocate for justice and equality.
