Måneskin, meaning “moonlight” in Danish, was formed in 2016 by four teenage friends with a shared passion for music and a rebellious drive to stand out. The band consists of vocalist Damiano David, bassist Victoria De Angelis, guitarist Thomas Raggi, and drummer Ethan Torchio.
They began by performing on the streets and in small clubs, honing their craft with raw energy and a fearless attitude. Early covers and original tracks helped them build a local following and develop the chemistry that would later define their explosive stage presence.
X Factor breakthrough and mainstream attention
Måneskin gained national recognition in 2017 when they competed in Italy’s *X Factor*. Although they didn’t win, their unique style, charisma, and gritty performances captured the audience's imagination.
Their debut EP “Chosen,” released shortly after the show, showcased their blend of funk, glam, and rock with songs like “Beggin’” and the title track, setting the foundation for a sound both familiar and new.
Crafting a distinct sound in the modern rock scene
What sets Måneskin apart is their ability to merge old-school rock influences with modern sensibilities. Drawing from artists like Led Zeppelin, The Rolling Stones, and Arctic Monkeys, they’ve built a sound that defies trends.
Their music features heavy guitar riffs, deep basslines, theatrical vocals, and unapologetic lyrics. This boldness, coupled with their gender-fluid style and stage flair, makes them a standout act in today’s music landscape.
Winning Sanremo and dominating Eurovision
The turning point in Måneskin’s career came in 2021 when they won the prestigious Sanremo Music Festival with their original song “Zitti e buoni.” The win earned them a spot at the Eurovision Song Contest.
At Eurovision 2021, held in Rotterdam, they delivered a fierce performance of the same song and clinched the trophy, marking Italy’s first win in over three decades. This launched them onto the global stage.
Global recognition and chart-topping hits
After their Eurovision victory, Måneskin experienced a meteoric rise in popularity worldwide. Their songs “I Wanna Be Your Slave” and their cover of “Beggin’” topped international charts and streaming platforms.
The band became a viral sensation, appearing on talk shows, headlining festivals, and gaining massive traction on platforms like TikTok and Spotify. Their global success shattered the perception of language barriers in rock music.
RUSH! and the international album breakthrough
In 2023, Måneskin released their highly anticipated album “RUSH!” which featured a mix of English and Italian tracks. The album received international acclaim for its high-energy production and daring experimentation.
Collaborations with industry giants and co-signs from rock legends gave further legitimacy to their place in the modern rock pantheon. The album’s tracks revealed their maturity while retaining their raw, edgy appeal.
Controversy, authenticity, and rebellion
True to rock tradition, Måneskin has not been without controversy. Their bold fashion choices, gender-bending looks, and open defiance of conventions have both thrilled and shocked audiences.
Yet this rebellion is not gimmickry. It reflects a deeply held belief in freedom of expression, individuality, and pushing the boundaries of art and identity. Their authenticity resonates with fans who seek something real in a commercial music world.
Live performances and stage domination
Måneskin is known for their electrifying live performances, whether in intimate venues or on the world’s biggest stages. Their concerts are theatrical experiences marked by passion, spontaneity, and full physical engagement.
Damiano’s vocal control and charisma, Victoria’s dynamic bass grooves, Thomas’s intense guitar solos, and Ethan’s rhythmic power come together to create an unforgettable live rock spectacle that connects across cultures.
Cultural impact and redefining Italian music abroad
One of Måneskin’s greatest achievements is reintroducing Italian music to the global rock stage. Unlike traditional acts, they present a modern, youthful face of Italy that blends style, swagger, and defiance.
They have inspired countless young musicians across Europe and beyond to embrace authenticity and take creative risks. Their success challenges the dominance of Anglo-American acts in the rock genre.
Play Måneskin - I Wanna Be Your Slave
Fashion, image, and fearless identity
Beyond music, Måneskin is recognized for its fashion-forward image. Their daring, androgynous style recalls glam rock icons like David Bowie and Prince, but with a modern twist shaped by their generation.
They have graced the covers of international fashion magazines and collaborated with major designers. Their look is as integral to their identity as their sound, reinforcing their role as cultural tastemakers.
Staying grounded amid global fame
Despite rapid success, Måneskin has managed to remain grounded. They frequently speak about the importance of artistic integrity, friendship, and creative control over their work.
They continue to write their own songs and insist on being involved in the creative process, a commitment that has helped them retain the respect of both fans and critics alike.
Why Måneskin represents the future of rock
Måneskin stands at a unique intersection of old and new, tradition and innovation, rebellion and discipline. Their rise signals a new era where rock music is once again bold and culturally relevant.
They’ve brought energy and unpredictability back to the genre, proving that rock can still inspire, challenge, and evolve. Måneskin is not just a band, but a movement redefining global music in real time.
