Caruso (song)

"Caruso" is a song written by Italian singer-songwriter Lucio Dalla in 1986. It is a tribute to the renowned Italian tenor Enrico Caruso and is inspired by the last days of his life.

The song recounts a legend about Caruso spending his final days in a hotel in Sorrento, Italy, overlooking the sea. It is said that he was deeply moved by a young female student who was staying at the same hotel. The lyrics poetically depict Caruso reflecting on his life, love, and impending death, drawing parallels between his own emotions and the beauty of the Neapolitan landscape.

Musically, "Caruso" is a dramatic and emotive ballad. Dalla's passionate vocals, combined with a melancholic melody and orchestral arrangements, contribute to the song's powerful impact. The song is renowned for its soaring vocal phrases and emotional delivery.

"Caruso" became a major hit in Italy and internationally, and has been covered by numerous prominent singers, including Luciano Pavarotti, Andrea Bocelli, and Julio Iglesias. It is considered one of Lucio Dalla's most famous and enduring compositions, and a modern classic of Italian popular music. The song is often performed at concerts and memorial events and remains a popular choice for vocal competitions. It has cemented its place in the Italian musical canon.