How a Rome street-performing quartet became the world's most unlikely rock phenomenon
In short: Formed in 2016, Måneskin evolved from busking on Roman streets to winning Eurovision and dominating global charts. By blending 1970s aesthetics with modern hard rock, this Italian group defied the odds to become a rare international success story, proving that rock and roll still commands a massive, global audience.
The band's trajectory began in Rome, where members Damiano David, Victoria De Angelis, and Thomas Raggi met in high school. After recruiting drummer Ethan Torchio via a social media advertisement, they officially formed in 2016 to compete in a local contest called Pulse. Their early days were defined by humble beginnings, including busking in the historical center of Rome and performing for small crowds in venues like the Felt music club.
Their breakthrough arrived in 2017 when they secured second place in the Italian edition of X Factor. This exposure launched their career, but it was their 2021 victory at the Sanremo Music Festival and subsequent win at the Eurovision Song Contest that propelled them onto the world stage. With their winning track, "Zitti e buoni," they became the first Italian rock band to achieve such a feat since 2006, signaling a major shift in the perception of rock music within the competition.
Musically, the band is a synthesis of diverse influences, ranging from Led Zeppelin and David Bowie to modern acts like Arctic Monkeys. Their sound has evolved from pop-rock with funk elements on their debut, "Il ballo della vita," to the harder, more aggressive style found on "Teatro d'ira: Vol. I." By 2022, they had sold an estimated 40 million records worldwide, earning hundreds of platinum and gold certifications. Despite their massive success, the band entered an unannounced hiatus in 2024 to pursue individual projects, with a planned reunion set for 2027.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Måneskin
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