Peppino di Capri, Italy’s Eurovision 1991 representative and legendary singer-songwriter, has died aged 86.

Heavy mourning has fallen over Italy’s music scene and the Eurovision fan community. Legendary singer-songwriter Peppino di Capri, widely regarded as one of the most beloved and influential voices in Italian romantic music, has passed away at the age of 86. His death, just two weeks before what would have been his 87th birthday, leaves a profound void in Italian culture and in the hearts of millions of fans around the world.

A Memorable Eurovision Legacy

Eurovision fans will always remember him for his historic participation in the Eurovision Song Contest 1991, held at Rome’s Cinecittà Studios. Italy selected di Capri to represent the host nation with the emotional ballad “Comme è ddoce ‘o mare” (“How Sweet the Sea Is”), performed entirely in the Neapolitan language. His performance was filled with warmth, emotion, and charisma, beautifully showcasing the rich musical traditions of southern Italy. After a dramatic voting sequence, he finished in a respectable seventh place with 89 points from juries across Europe.

More Than Six Decades of Music

Di Capri’s remarkable musical career spanned more than six decades, during which he became an international cultural icon. He launched his career in the late 1950s, introducing rock and roll and twist rhythms to Italy. In 1965, he famously joined The Beatles during their historic Italian tour.

Over the course of his career, he competed in the Sanremo Music Festival – Italy’s most prestigious music competition – no fewer than 15 times, winning twice: in 1973 with “Un grande amore e niente più” (“A Great Love and Nothing More”), and again in 1976 with “Non lo faccio più” (“I Won’t Do It Anymore”).

His signature song remains the timeless hit “Champagne”, released in 1973, which became an anthem for celebrations around the world. The song inspired dozens of cover versions and cemented di Capri’s status as one of the greatest ambassadors of Neapolitan music and modern Italian romance. His velvet voice and distinctive piano playing became the soundtrack to generations of listeners both in Italy and abroad.

Italy Says Goodbye

According to Italian media reports, di Capri’s passing marks the end of a golden era in 20th-century Italian popular music. His family is expected to announce funeral arrangements in the coming hours, with the ceremony likely to take place in his beloved hometown of Capri.

He leaves behind an extraordinary artistic legacy, countless timeless hits, and one unforgettable appearance on the Eurovision stage that will continue to move Eurovision fans for generations to come.