Sanremo 2027: Carlo Conti Hints at a Musical Shake-Up and the Future of Italy’s Biggest Stage
The buzz around the 2026 Sanremo Music Festival (February 24-28) is already building, but attention is surprisingly turning to 2027. Current artistic director Carlo Conti has sparked speculation about the future direction of the festival, and potentially, his own role. In a recent appearance on the podcast Pezzi – Dentro la musica, Conti suggested he hopes to see a younger face at the helm next year, while simultaneously outlining a bolder musical vision for the current edition.
A Broader Musical Palette for Sanremo 2026
Conti promises a significant shift in musical diversity for the 2026 festival. “There will be more musical variety compared to last year,” he stated. “A touch of rock, some country, pure rap, Latin sounds and rhythms, pop, and even a classic song without a chorus…” This signals a departure from the more predictable song structures often seen at Sanremo, aiming to capture a wider audience and reflect evolving musical tastes. This move is particularly interesting given the increasing popularity of Latin music globally, with artists like Bad Bunny and Karol G consistently topping charts. According to a recent report by the IFPI, Latin music consumption grew by 33.7% globally in 2023.
Conti emphasizes that the artistic direction is the most exciting part of the process for him, concluding once the lineup is announced. He views the televised performance aspect as part of his regular work, suggesting a focus on the creative core of the festival.
Navigating the “Big Name” Dilemma
Concerns have been raised about the perceived lack of established “big names” in this year’s lineup. Conti dismisses this, citing artists like Renga, Raf, Patty Pravo, Luchè, Masini, Fedez, Malika, and Arisa as significant draws. He acknowledges that some potential participants were still finalizing albums or dealing with personal commitments, leaving room for new talent. He uses the analogy of a bouquet of flowers, explaining that sometimes you have to work with what’s available and discover unexpected gems.
This approach reflects a broader trend in music festivals globally – a move away from relying solely on established headliners and towards showcasing emerging artists. Coachella, for example, has increasingly featured up-and-coming acts alongside established stars, attracting a diverse audience and fostering a sense of discovery.
Audience Competition and Spontaneity on Stage
Conti isn’t overly concerned about potential dips in viewership, acknowledging the competition from “La ruota della fortuna” in the early evening slot. He prioritizes artistic integrity over chasing record-breaking ratings, recognizing that a slight decline is natural. He also highlighted the importance of spontaneity, recalling how he encouraged Robbie Williams to kiss Maria De Filippi on stage – a moment that became iconic.
This emphasis on unscripted moments is crucial in today’s entertainment landscape, where audiences crave authenticity. Social media has amplified the impact of viral moments, and festivals that embrace spontaneity often generate significant buzz.
Honoring the Past, Shaping the Future
Conti intends to pay tribute to the legendary Pippo Baudo, along with other Sanremo icons like Ornella Vanoni and Tony Dallara. He also revealed a behind-the-scenes detail about his involvement in shaping songs, referencing his work on “Occidentali’s Karma,” where he suggested toning down a repetitive chorus. This demonstrates a hands-on approach to ensuring the quality and originality of the performances.
What Does This Mean for the Future of Sanremo?
Conti’s comments suggest several potential trends for the future of the Sanremo Music Festival:
- Increased Musical Diversity: Expect to see a wider range of genres represented, catering to a broader audience.
- Focus on Emerging Talent: Sanremo may increasingly become a platform for discovering new artists, alongside established stars.
- Prioritization of Artistic Integrity: The festival may prioritize artistic quality over chasing record ratings.
- Embrace of Spontaneity: Unscripted moments and authentic interactions will likely become more prominent.
- A Younger Leadership: The potential for a younger artistic director could bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas.
Did you know?
Sanremo is not just a music festival; it’s a cultural phenomenon that significantly impacts Italian music trends and popular culture. Winning Sanremo often catapults artists to national stardom.
Pro Tip:
Keep an eye on emerging Italian artists in the months leading up to the festival. They may be contenders for the 2027 lineup!
FAQ
- Will Carlo Conti return as artistic director in 2027? It’s uncertain. He has expressed a desire to see a younger person take on the role.
- What genres can we expect to see at Sanremo 2026? Rock, country, rap, Latin music, pop, and classic songs with unconventional structures.
- Is Sanremo losing its appeal? Not at all. It remains Italy’s most-watched television event and a major cultural touchstone.
- How important is the artistic director’s role? Crucial. They shape the festival’s identity and determine the lineup.
Stay tuned for further updates on Sanremo 2026 and the evolving landscape of Italian music. Explore more articles on Italian culture and entertainment here. Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest news and insights!
