As the warm days of summer roll in, there’s no better way to immerse yourself in Italian culture than through its vibrant music. Italian songs often capture the essence of summer, from the joy of the season to the bittersweet feeling of its end. Here are five classic Italian songs that will transport you to an Italian summer, providing both language practice and cultural insights.
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1. “Azzurro” by Adriano Celentano
About the Song:
Released in 1968, “Azzurro” is a classic hit by the legendary Adriano Celentano. The song describes a man’s longing for the perfect summer day. Its catchy melody and playful lyrics paint a picture of a sunny day, making it a timeless favourite.
Why Listen?
“Azzurro” is an excellent song to practice listening comprehension, thanks to its clear lyrics and upbeat rhythm. It also offers a glimpse into Italian pop music of the 1960s.
Here is a YouTube link: Azzurro
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2. “L’estate sta finendo” by Righeira
About the Song:
This 1985 hit by the duo Righeira became an anthem for the end of summer. With a danceable beat and a touch of nostalgia, the song reflects on the transition from the carefree days of summer to the responsibilities of autumn.
Why Listen?
The song’s repetitive chorus makes it easy to sing along, and its themes of change and nostalgia resonate universally, providing cultural context for Italian pop music in the 1980s.
Here is a YouTube link: Righeira – L’estate sta finendo
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3. “Estate” by Jovanotti
About the Song:
Released in 2013, Jovanotti’s “Estate” celebrates the freedom and joy of summer. The song’s lively rhythm and uplifting lyrics capture the essence of summer fun and adventure.
Why Listen?
Jovanotti’s unique style combines elements of pop and rap, offering a modern take on Italian music. The song’s vocabulary and themes are relatable, making it an enjoyable listening exercise for learners.
Here is a YouTube link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WWRy1zT-CjI
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4. “Mare Mare” by Luca Carboni
About the Song:
This 1992 classic is all about escaping to the sea during the summer. With its relaxed vibe and catchy chorus, “Mare Mare” evokes the feeling of a perfect beach vacation.
Why Listen?
The song’s simple structure and relatable themes make it easy to follow along. It’s a great way to practice your Italian while dreaming of the Italian coast.
Here is a YouTube link: Luca Carboni – Mare Mare
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5. “Un’Estate Italiana” by Edoardo Bennato and Gianna Nannini
About the Song:
Originally the official song of the 1990 FIFA World Cup held in Italy, “Un’Estate Italiana” became a summer classic. The song’s passionate and uplifting melody celebrates Italian pride and the excitement of the World Cup.
Why Listen?
This song is perfect for practising listening skills and learning new vocabulary. It also provides cultural insights into a significant moment in Italian history, making it a great addition to any language learning playlist.
Here is a YouTube link: Gianna Nannini & Edoardo Bennato – UN’ESTATE ITALIANA
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Enjoy the Music and Language
Listening to these songs will not only enhance your Italian language skills but also immerse you in the rich culture and emotions of an Italian summer. So grab your headphones, let the music play, and enjoy the beauty of the Italian language through these timeless hits.
Buon ascolto! (Happy listening!)
