Who is Tony Pitony, the real “case” of Sanremo
Tony Pitony, an artist from Syracuse, Italy, gained fame through his provocative lyrics and Elvis Presley persona, transitioning from social media to the Sanremo festival stage.
Tony Pitony, an enigmatic artist donning the Elvis Presley mask, has captured attention with his provocative and irreverent lyrics. After being dismissed from X Factor, he carved out a niche in the Italian pop scene, known for songs like 'Donne Ricche', 'Culo', and 'Scapezzolate'. His audacious style and edgy content have sparked debates among listeners while propelling him from obscurity on social media platforms to a prominent spot at the 2026 Sanremo festival, including a duet with Ditonellapiaga during the event's cover night.
Within a few months, Pitony went from the fringes of TikTok and Instagram to the digital top ten, illustrating his rapid rise in popularity. His track 'Scapezzolate' even became the anthem for Fantasanremo. Critics note that despite the explicit and challenging nature of his lyrics, Pitony's music is crafted with the finesse of skilled musicians. His sound is often compared to a fusion of Franco 126 and the comedic insights of Squallor, reflecting both parody and homage to the broader themes of Italian pop culture, including nods to the comedic styles of the 1970s and the performances of Elio e le Storie Tese.
The implications of Pitony's rise highlight not only a shift in the music scene but also an evolving acceptance of unconventional artistry in mainstream culture. His success represents a growing audience for bold and distinctive expressions in the Italian music landscape, suggesting that traditional barriers are being dismantled by new voices that combine humor, satire, and critical commentary in their work.