Stefano is a singer, songwriter and piano virtuoso who fuses soul, pop and classical for an enthralling musical journey. The talented songwriter’s music is marked by hope, love and connection in the aim to heal.
Born in Italy, Stefano took to music at an early age and began classical piano training at age seven. He quickly gained notoriety by performing on popular Italian TV shows, and since then has collaborated with famed songwriters, as well as the famed director Franco Zeffirelli. Honing his craft further, the musician and singer has ultimately composed and scored motion picture soundtracks under the guidance of award-winning filmmaker Jamal Joseph.
What first got you into music?
I consciously got involved with music when I was 3 years old, (but the inspiration came from the minute that I was born, I was lucky enough always to hear my father singing and playing music from a very young age) I was building my own stage and lights to sing in my village neighborhood in Italy. At times I was even building my own TV show inside where I was the host, the guest and the entertainer.
How would you describe the music that you typically create?
The music that I create reflects what we are living in today’s world. The contamination of genres that finds space from my classical background to the latest hip hop, always reveals nothing more than my personal trust and honesty about who I really am.
What inspires your writing? Do you draw inspiration from poems, music, TV, or other media?
I am inspired by anything that represents true life from little tiny things, life experiences, stories, or challenges. Oftentimes the inspirations come from something I am witnessing, a scene that I am staring at, a movie, or a classical musical piece. I sit at the piano and let my fingers find the blue note that becomes a harmony that my heart is suggesting becomes a new song.
If you could go open a show for any artist who would it be?
I would love to open for One Republic because I love their music and am very inspired by Ryan Tedder, their band leader.
What lead you to become a music artist and what advice can you give to others aspiring to make a hit?
It was essentially discovering that everyone has a mission on this earth and my clear mission has been music. I have a duty with this gift to achieve something right in this world and will do my best to achieve this goal.
In your opinion, how do artists in this industry stay on top of the game when faced with so much competition? What’s the secret to making yourself noticed?
It’s really true in today’s world that the competition is insane because of the accessibility that artists and new music have through the use of social media platforms. That said, quantity is overwhelming compared to quality giving to much space to a neutral music scene that may last a season or two. I believe that if you really have something to say, you will find the proper and smart way to find it and become more noticed.
Where was your last song recorded?
Zero 1 Entertaiment with Chico Bennett.
Was anyone else involved in writing, recording, or producing the songs?
Yes, John Smallwood is the lyricist and Chico Bennett was the producer.
What kind of recording facilities do you have at home?
I have a studio with my grand piano, two digital pianos, my work desk, multiple speakers and a second work area that I use for social media filming.
What would be a good theme song for your life?
Any Chopin composition.
What do you think the greatest invention has been?
Cell phones
What’s your favorite board game?
Monopoly
Do you have any lucky items, objects, or traditions?
Yes, a metal that belonged to Gustavo Rol, a very special Italian legend.
If you were talking to a younger version of you, what advice would you give yourself?
I would be more direct, less genuine and at times a bit rougher.