In Italy, the birthplace of opera and a land of poets where deep passions are woven into daily life, love finds its voice in music. There are so many Italian love songs to chose from, to celebrate Valentine’s Day or simply setting the mood. Many of these songs are literally milestones of Italian pop culture, widely recognized, appreciated, and sung by everybody.
Here are five classics to create a Valentine’s Day playlist that will make your heart skip a beat.
Ti amo– Umberto Tozzi
An easy song, a catchy tune with a chorus that repeats like a mantra the three most important words “I love you”. Published in 1977, for almost fifty years this track has been extremely popular, not only on Valentine’s Day. Oddly enough, the lyrics actually are about unfaithful love, however passionate.
In more recent times, this song has been brought to the attention of the audience worldwide thanks to the successful series The House of Paper. The author is Umberto Tozzi from Turin, creator of many other timeless masterpieces and not new to international success. One of his greatest hits is Gloria, for example, covered by Laura Branigan in 1982. It was a huge success in the United States, just as it was in Italy.
Il cielo in una stanza – Gino Paoli
A song that is nothing short of iconic, Il Cielo In Una Stanza was written by Gino Paoli and first performed by Mina in 1960. A second version, rearranged by Paoli himself in collaboration with another giant of Italian music and cinema, Ennio Morricone, achieved even greater success. The famous director Martin Scorsese was also captivated by the song, featuring it in his movie Goodfellas. Later on he wanted it again in the Dolce & Gabbana perfume commercial, starring Scarlett Johansson and Matthew McConaughey.
At the time, Il Cielo In Una Stanza was groundbreaking for its innovative structure, lacking traditional choruses and rhymes. Its was also almost more spoken than sung, blurring the line between poetry and song.
The lyrics, inspired by a true story, offer some of the most beautiful and romantic depictions of love:
When you are here with me
this room no longer has walls but trees, infinite trees.
When you are here next to me
this purple ceiling no longer exists; I see the sky above us.
Almeo tu nell’universo – Mia Martini
Mia Martini, one of the most renowned and beloved interpreters of Italian music, gifted us a true masterpiece with Almeno Tu Nell’Universo. This song stands out among Italian love songs for its profound lyrics, celebrating true love in a world filled with hypocrisy and falsehood.
Her poignant and powerful performance at the 1989 Sanremo Festival, though unforgettable, did not lead to victory. Yet, the song resonated with the public far more than many others that achieved higher rankings. Over the years, this piece has cemented the immense talent of Mia Martini, sadly gone too soon. Today, the song remains a timeless classic and an essential part of every romantic’s repertoire.
Sarà perché ti amo – Ricchi e Poveri
Whether it’s Valentine’s Day or not, when it comes to Italian love songs, Sarà Perché Ti Amo is always part of the conversation.
With its vibrant energy, catchy rhythm, and charming lyrics, the song radiates joy and positivity, embodying the carefree nature of true love. It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to call it a hymn to the happiness that only falling in love can bring. Pure 1980s pop, it captures the lighthearted spirit of that era and still today, it makes people smile and dance.
With seven million copies sold across Europe, at a time when streaming was science fiction, Sarà Perché Ti Amo was a massive commercial success for a band already known for a string of iconic hits. The song’s popularity has never waned, and even now, regardless of age, everyone knows at least the irresistible refrain.
Questo piccolo grande amore – Claudio Baglioni
The song stirs feelings of nostalgia, reminding us of the sweetness and innocence of first love, captured in lines like “the fear and the desire to be naked” and “hands eager for forbidden things.” It is tender without being overly sentimental, romantic without crossing into saccharine territory.
From its very first notes, the song creates a uniquely captivating atmosphere. Its enduring success is largely thanks to its authenticity and sincerity, that make it resonate deeply with its listeners.
