Italian Music Icon Gino Paoli Remembered by Mogol and Baccini
Gino Paoli, one of Italy’s most influential singer-songwriters, died today at 91. His death prompted an outpouring of tributes from musicians, broadcasters, and political figures.
Reactions from fellow artists
Mogol, whose real name is Giulio Rapetti, described Paoli as a dear friend. He praised Paoli as a major author and composer. Mogol also said he had tried to encourage Paoli, who had seemed depressed recently.
Mogol recalled how he introduced Paoli’s song “Il cielo in una stanza” to Mina. That decision helped the song reach a wider audience.
Francesco Baccini remembered Paoli as more combative in recent times. Baccini recounted the 2004 seventieth birthday concert in Genoa. There he witnessed Bruno Lauzi appear despite advanced Parkinson’s disease. Paoli broke down and left the stage when he saw Lauzi, Baccini said.
Baccini emphasized Paoli’s central role in the so-called “Scuola genovese.” He credited Paoli and his peers with bringing international influences into Italian songwriting. Names such as Bob Dylan and Georges Brassens shaped that new approach, Baccini noted.
Voices from music and television
Presenter Fabio Fazio called Paoli a giant, a poet, and a painter. Fazio said Paoli’s songs were like paintings. He recalled hosting Paoli with Ornella Vanoni on Che Tempo Che Fa on October 29, 2023.
Young singer Alfa described Paoli as a point of reference for Genoa’s musicians. Alfa said he performed “Sapore di sale” as an homage at a November concert. He also credited “La gatta” for teaching him guitar basics.
Television hosts Simona Ventura and Francesca Fialdini posted personal condolences. They highlighted Paoli’s emotional impact across generations.
Political and civic condolences
Several politicians offered public condolences. Vice premier and foreign minister Antonio Tajani paid tribute to Paoli’s role in popular culture. Matteo Salvini posted a brief farewell message on social media.
The mayor of Genoa, Silvia Salis, called Paoli one of the city’s greatest songwriters. She praised his refined authorship and lasting contribution to Genoa’s cultural identity. Eugenio Giani, president of Tuscany, also remembered Paoli as a voice that crossed generations.
Enduring legacy
Many described him as an Italian music icon. Colleagues such as Mogol and Baccini were among those who remembered him publicly. Critics and fans agreed his songs combined apparent simplicity with deep emotional weight.
Filmogaz.com collected statements and memories from across the cultural and political spectrum. Gino Paoli leaves a legacy that will continue to influence Italian songwriting.
