Radio Empire

Take On Me - Sanremo Story 19 febbraio 2026

·52 min·5 clips
Giovanna Mazzeo takes listeners on a nostalgic journey through Sanremo's 1995-2005 era, starting with the forgotten artist L'Ighea.
The episode begins with host Giovanna Mazzeo introducing Sanremo Story, a segment focusing on the Sanremo Music Festival from 1995 to 2005. She starts with the 1995 edition, highlighting L'Ighea's song 'Io Rivoglio la Mia Vita' from the new proposals category. Mazzeo notes that L'Ighea did not continue artistically but is remembered for this entry. The 1996 festival is discussed, mentioning hosts Pippo Baudo, Sabrina Ferilli, and Valeria Mazza, with international guests like Céline Dion and Bruce Springsteen. Winners Ron and Tosca are noted, along with Michele Zarrillo's 'L'Elefante e la Farfalla'. Returning to 1995, Mazzeo describes the victory of an unknown duo with 'Fiumi di parole', who have since been repeatedly rejected from the festival. She also mentions Paola e Chiara's win in new proposals and Carmen Consoli's participation. The 1998 edition is covered, hosted by Raimondo Vianello with guests like Madonna and Celine Dion, and Annalisa Minetti's win. For 1999, Fabio Fazio hosted, and Alex Britti is highlighted. The episode transitions to the 2000s, starting with Sanremo 2000 hosted by Fabio Fazio again, with Teo Teocoli and Ines Sastre, and international stars like Tina Turner. Matia Bazar won with 'Sentimento', and Mietta's song is mentioned. In 2001, Raffaella Carrà hosted with Megan Gale, and Elisa won with 'Luce', her first Italian song. The 2002 edition, hosted by Pippo Baudo, featured Roberto Benigni's controversial return after 19 years, sparking political debates. Matia Bazar won again, and Nek's victory is noted. For 2003, Pippo Baudo hosted, and the win is mentioned, along with Giuny Russo's last performance. In 2004, Simona Ventura hosted, and Marco Masini won; Adriano Celentano's surprise appearance caused Joaquin Cortes to walk out. The episode ends with Sanremo 2005, hosted by Paolo Bonolis, won by Francesco Renga, and notes on excluded artists who later succeeded. Mazzeo previews upcoming coverage of Sanremo 2026.
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