Sal Da Vinci, from the Apprenticeship to Eurovision: The Triumph of an Italian Music Artisan

ROME – Sal Da Vinci, the Neapolitan singer-songwriter who won over Italian audiences with his victory at the 2026 Sanremo Music Festival with the song "Per sempre sì," is now starring at the Eurovision Song Contest in Vienna. At 57, Sal describes himself as a "music worker," a craftsman who has built his career with patience and dedication, proving that talent and perseverance can lead to success even after years of sacrifice. His words are a message of hope for young people: "When talent is there, sooner or later it comes out; there's no need to rush things."

The artist, who will soon celebrate 50 years of career, has seen a surge in popularity in recent months, first with the summer hit "Rossetto e Caffè" and then with "Per sempre sì," the most-streamed song at Eurovision with over 37 million streams. Success, according to Sal, came because audiences sought a return to simplicity and authenticity. "I didn't come from the platforms, but from the record store," he explains, "and it's amazing to see how an Italian song can gain such international recognition."

His new album, "Per sempre sì," will be released on May 29th. Sal describes it as an emotional journey through everyday life, rich in poetry and personal reflections. The album also reflects his relationship with women and the world around him, themes he has vigorously defended against those who accuse him of stereotyping, emphasizing instead that his performance, with its famous Italian-style choreography, is designed to convey lightness and warmth.

Naples, Sal Da Vinci's birthplace, is a source of pride and inspiration for him: "My Neapolitan identity is an added value," he says, recalling the legacy of great Italian artists like Toto Cutugno, Domenico Modugno, and Renato Zero. A huge Napoli fan, however, he wouldn't trade the opportunity to represent Italy at Eurovision for any football trophy.

Sal chose not to engage in political controversy over the Vienna event, emphasizing that "music unites, not divides." After Eurovision, the artist is preparing for a summer full of concerts throughout Italy, with a special finale in Naples, before returning to the theaters in the fall to celebrate half a century of his career. His advice to young artists? "Stay authentic and don't get distracted by the hype."