Eros Walter Luciano Ramazzotti is a renowned Italian pop singer, musician, and songwriter, born on October 28, 1963. He has achieved widespread popularity in Italy, Europe, and the Spanish-speaking world, releasing most of his albums in both Italian and Spanish.
Throughout his 30-year career, Ramazzotti has released 11 studio albums, one EP, three compilation albums, three live albums, and 37 singles, selling over 60 million records. His repertoire boasts duets with iconic artists such as Cher, Tina Turner, Andrea Bocelli, Patsy Kensit, Anastacia, Joe Cocker, Julio Iglesias, Lynn Davis, Ricardo Arjona, Luciano Pavarotti, Laura Pausini, Nicole Scherzinger, and Ricky Martin.
Ramazzotti's international breakthrough came in 1993 with the release of Tutte storie, which sold five million copies and topped the charts in numerous countries. This success led to a BMG International record contract in 1994.
His unique voice, described as a forceful and resonant baritone with a slightly nasal tone, and his energetic delivery of catchy, melodic tunes have contributed to his enduring popularity. His songs often feature autobiographical themes, rich instrumentation, and a strong soft-rock influence.
Born in Cinecittà Est, Rome, Ramazzotti is the son of Rodolfo Ramazzotti, a construction worker, and Raffaela Molina, a housewife. His father originated from the province of Viterbo in Lazio, and his mother from the province of Vibo Valentia in Calabria. He was named after Eros, the Greek god of love.
Ramazzotti began playing the guitar at the age of seven and wrote songs with his father's help. He initially intended to attend a musical conservatory but failed the admission examination. Instead, he trained in bookkeeping before dropping out. He occasionally appeared as an extra in films, dreaming of becoming a pop star.
In 1981, Ramazzotti participated in the music contest Voci Nuove di Castrocaro with the song "Rock 80", which he wrote and performed in front of record label representatives. Although he did not win the contest, he received votes from Roberto Galanti and Baron Lando Lanni, who represented the Italian label DDD. DDD signed Ramazzotti to his first contract, and he moved to Milan with his brother Marco and mother Raffaella.
Ramazzotti's first single, "Ad un amico" (To a Friend),was released in 1982 but received little attention. He soon met Renato Brioschi, who mentored him toward his first success at the Sanremo Festival in 1984. His song, "Terra promessa" (Promised Land),won the Newcomers' category and was widely released throughout Europe, marking the beginning of his illustrious career.
