The world of music is in mourning as the iconic Italian singer-songwriter Salvatore “Toto” Cutugno has passed away at the age of 80. The legendary artist breathed his last at 4 pm this afternoon at the San Raffaele Hospital in Milan, where he had been undergoing treatment for a prolonged period.
The news was confirmed by his manager, Danilo Mancuso, who revealed that Cutugno’s health had been deteriorating over the past few months following a lengthy illness.
Cutugno’s life had been marked by battles against adversity. In 2008, he courageously confronted prostate cancer, sharing in 2018 that he had emerged victorious from the fight. The diagnosis had led to the removal of his right kidney as well. A true testament to his resilience, Cutugno had attributed his recovery to a successful surgery facilitated by a doctor recommended by his close friend and colleague, Al Bano Carrisi.
“I am a miracle worker. I enjoy life because it is a gift from God and must be lived to the fullest,” Cutugno had shared after his recovery.
Born on July 7, 1943, in Fosdinovo, northern Tuscany, Cutugno’s musical journey was a remarkable one. Initially a drummer, he transitioned into songwriting during the early 1970s and went on to craft hits for esteemed European artists including Joe Dassin, Mireille Mathieu, Dalida, Johnny Halliday, and more. Alongside his band Albatross, Cutugno achieved notable success, securing third place at the Sanremo Festival in 1976 with the song “L’Albatross.”
His solo career further enriched his musical legacy. Cutugno’s indelible mark on the San Remo event was highlighted by his victory in 1980 with “Solo Noi.” Despite finishing second in subsequent years with songs like “Serenata,” “Sons,” and “Emotions,” Cutugno’s impact remained profound. His triumph reached new heights when he won the Eurovision Song Contest in 1990 with the heartfelt “Insieme: 1992,” a tribute to the impending unification of Europe.
His albums, including the well-known “L’Italiano” (1983) and “Mediterraneo” (1987), solidified his stature as a prolific artist. While his recording pace eased during the 1990s, Cutugno’s influence on music persisted.
Cutugno’s passing marks the end of a musical era. His resounding legacy, characterized by triumph over personal trials and an unwavering dedication to his craft, will forever remain etched in the annals of music history.
