Casalmaggiore, a small town in Italy’s Lombardy region, isn’t typically a name that resonates within global music industry circles. But it’s become the birthplace of a promising new voice in Italian pop, Laura Zanitoni, whose debut single, “Vado Via,” is now available on major streaming platforms.
Zanitoni’s journey to releasing original music has been a long one, characterized by a dedication to songwriting and a willingness to hone her craft. For years, she focused on performing covers and providing vocals for other artists, a period she describes as essential to her development. The turning point came with a collaboration with Emanuele Santona, a producer and multi-instrumentalist based in Parma. Together, they’ve begun building the foundation for her first full-length album of original material.
“Vado Via,” which translates to “I’m Leaving,” explores the complex push and pull within romantic relationships. Zanitoni describes the song as a reflection on the duality of wanting closeness while simultaneously needing space – the desire to stay versus the urge to escape. This thematic tension, she says, will be a central thread running through her upcoming album, which promises a diverse sonic landscape. While “Vado Via” offers a taste of accessible pop sensibilities, the album will also delve into romantic ballads, incorporate elements of Gypsy music and explore electronic soundscapes.
Zanitoni’s musical versatility is a key component of her appeal. She’s comfortable navigating a wide range of genres, from pop and singer-songwriter rock to folk, jazz, and electronic music. This eclecticism isn’t accidental; it’s a deliberate reflection of her artistic evolution and a refusal to be confined by genre expectations. She’s currently collaborating with a network of musicians in Parma, including Diego Cassani, a guitarist who has previously worked with established Italian artists Gene Gnocchi and Concato, and Martina Zavaroni, the guitarist for the band Wox.
The creative process, Zanitoni emphasizes, is a delicate balance between meticulous study and instinctive expression. She strives to combine technical proficiency with genuine emotional resonance, constantly pushing herself to evolve as an artist. The release of “Vado Via” is a culmination of this dedication, and she’s quick to acknowledge the contributions of those who helped bring her vision to life. She specifically thanked Santona for his role as her artistic producer, the artist known as Gangan for providing electronic elements and handling the mixing and mastering of the single, and Riccardo Cavalletti of Sputnik Management for his support as her publisher.
The Italian music scene, while often overshadowed by its larger European counterparts, is experiencing a period of renewed vitality. Streaming platforms have played a crucial role in this resurgence, providing a direct pathway for emerging artists like Zanitoni to reach a global audience. The success of artists like Måneskin, who rose to international fame after winning the Eurovision Song Contest in , has further amplified the spotlight on Italian music and opened doors for a new generation of talent.
Zanitoni’s story is particularly noteworthy because it highlights the growing importance of regional musical hubs within Italy. While Milan and Rome traditionally dominate the industry, cities like Parma and Casalmaggiore are becoming increasingly fertile ground for creative innovation. This decentralization of the music scene is fostering a more diverse and dynamic landscape, allowing artists to develop their unique voices outside of the established industry structures.
The collaboration between Zanitoni and Santona is also indicative of a broader trend within the Italian music industry: a growing emphasis on producer-artist partnerships. Santona’s experience as a multi-instrumentalist and producer has been instrumental in shaping the sound of “Vado Via” and guiding the direction of Zanitoni’s album. This collaborative approach allows artists to benefit from the expertise of seasoned professionals while maintaining creative control over their work.
The inclusion of musicians like Diego Cassani and Martina Zavaroni further underscores the importance of community within the Italian music scene. Cassani’s extensive experience working with established artists brings a level of credibility and polish to Zanitoni’s project, while Zavaroni’s contributions as a guitarist add a distinctive sonic texture. These collaborations demonstrate a willingness among Italian musicians to support and uplift emerging talent.
Looking ahead, Zanitoni’s focus is on completing her debut album and building a dedicated fanbase. She plans to continue collaborating with musicians in Parma and exploring new sonic territories. The success of “Vado Via” will undoubtedly provide a significant boost to her career, but she remains grounded in her artistic vision and committed to creating music that is both authentic and emotionally resonant. The album, she suggests, will be a deeper exploration of the themes introduced in her first single, offering listeners a more comprehensive glimpse into her artistic world.
The release of “Vado Via” isn’t just a debut for Laura Zanitoni; it’s a signal of a vibrant and evolving Italian music scene, one that’s increasingly embracing diversity, collaboration, and the power of independent artistry. It’s a story that extends beyond the charts and speaks to the enduring appeal of authentic musical expression.
