Aldo Ascolese, Genoese singer-songwriter, dies at 62

Aldo Ascolese, the Genoese singer-songwriter and guitarist known as ‘the pirate’ for his signature bandana, has died at the age of 62 following a serious illness.

Ascolese was a prominent figure in the Genoese musical tradition, recognized for his deep, warm voice and his ability to interpret the works of Fabrizio De André. His tribute show, ‘Da Faber al cielo’, was a notable part of his career. An autodidact, he spent over thirty years documenting the atmosphere, people, and landscapes of Genoa through music that blended singer-songwriter styles with tango and milonga.

Throughout his career, he shared stages with major Italian artists including Francesco De Gregori, Francesco Guccini, and Roberto Vecchioni. In 2023, he was awarded the Genovino d’argento.