Riccardo Tarantoli, owner of the Red Garter in Florence, is defending himself after the social media outcry over an alleged ban on singing Neapolitan songs during his venue's karaoke nights. The accusation came from a young man from Benevento, who said he'd been denied the opportunity to perform in Neapolitan. Tarantoli, however, sought to clarify the situation with a video posted on TikTok.
“It's not about Neapolitan, but the rules of karaoke”
In the video, the manager explained: “It has nothing to do with the language, we only have one song per person sing to give everyone the chance to get on stage”. Tarantoli then launched an invitation to the young man who raised the case: “We look forward to seeing you in Florence to sing, and bring your mayor Mastella too: together we will perform the best classics of Neapolitan music”.
The appeal comes after the mayor of Benevento, Clement Mastella, had commented on the story, further fueling the debate. To demonstrate the openness of his venue to Neapolitan music, Tarantoli included in the video some images in which several young people perform iconic songs such as 'O Sole Mio and contemporary hits such as I' pe te, tu pe me by Geolier.
The controversy on social media
The case has sparked a heated debate online, dividing public opinion. On the one hand, some condemn the alleged ban as discriminatory; on the other, some defend the operator, emphasizing that the karaoke rule is designed to ensure fairness among participants.
While waiting for the controversy to die down, the Red Garter confirms itself as a point of reference for evening entertainment in Florence, but with a watchful eye on the social dynamics that are increasingly influential in judging the choices of public venues.
@redgarterflorence We are waiting for you at the Red Garter to sing your favorite song!! #redgarter #firenzenightlife #karaoke #karaokeparty #djset #Florence #firenzefood
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