Mateo Bocelli: From his father’s legacy to creating his own musical identity

Matteo, however, follows a separate path, looking for the sound that expresses it and shaping his own musical identity, beyond expectations.

On the occasion of his upcoming concert in Athens, he talks to « NEWS » about his collaboration with artists, such as Ed Sheeran, the challenge to stand out in a world full of expectations, and his impatience to present his music to the Athenian audience for the first time.

Yes, in recent years it has been really very intense, but I am incredibly happy to have managed to bring the show to Greece. I wanted to play here for a long time, but so far the program has not allowed it. So I am excited that it all worked – and even in such a fantastic space. It will be a night full of fun. Get ready for songs that speak to the heart … and raise your legs!

Working with such talented artists has prompted me to explore new musical directions and deepen the understanding of the creative process. Each collaboration revealed a new perspective on the album and taught me the importance of staying open to different ideas. Working with such experienced musicians, I learned how important personal authenticity is, how to approach a song from different angles and how to find your own special voice in a multifaceted musical landscape.

It would be suffocating to focus too much on responding to a family heritage. I have to remind myself that I’m not trying to get something – I’m just doing the music that expresses me authentically. If people find her beautiful and can draw something important from her, even better. My father always gives constructive criticism. He is my biggest supporter and wants the best for me. I had many opportunities thanks to his faith in my talent.

I think it became clear when I was a teenager and I began to get more serious about appearances. I was fascinated by the idea of ​​connecting with people through music, and as soon as I felt the power of a living interpretation, I knew that this was the way I wanted to follow. It seemed quite natural to me to fully devote myself to music.

It was a very moving moment for me, because I was singing in front of a audience full of some of the most talented people, many of whom were my heroes from my childhood. It was even more moving because I was singing with my father a song that gave him worldwide recognition. It was really my honor to interpret it for the first time together.

Musical genres such as pop, soul and electronic music have also influenced me, as I like to experiment with sounds that evolve my creativity. I believe that inspiration can be found everywhere – as long as you look for it.

It was really a great honor that I was given this song. My friend Ed Sheeran wrote it along with his brother, Matthew. It talks about their experience to grow up with a parent who encouraged them to pursue their musical dreams. Like them, I grew up in a house where music was present and encouraged creative expression. I felt like they had written it for me. I am grateful to be the first to record it.

I try to approach each piece with respect to both classical traditions and modern influences. I believe that the secret lies in the combination of technical discipline and the emotional depth of classical music with the accessibility and freedom of pop. This fusion enables me to express timeless emotions in a fresh and original way.

I really like how different languages ​​give you the opportunity to express your emotions more clearly. Of course, when I sing in my mother tongue, I can express myself in the most authentic way, because I feel familiar with words and sounds. I also believe that the Italian language is beautiful in itself – and when it is sung, it becomes even more beautiful. But I also enjoy singing in English, because it is much of my life. I work all over the world and English is the language that unites us all.

I continue to evolve as an artist. I am currently working on my second album, working together again with some extremely talented people. I can’t reveal much yet, but stay tuned!

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“Summer Nights” Festival in the Shadow of Rocks, Friday June 13th 2025