Italian singer Peppino Di Capri dies at 86, tourism minister vows UNESCO path dedication

Peppino Di Capri, the celebrated Italian singer and pianist, died at the age of 86. The Italian government issued widespread condolences. Tourism Minister Gianmarco Mazzi said the singer’s death “deeply saddens” him and announced that the planned “cammino” for the UNESCO recognition of Neapolitan song will be dedicated to Di Capri, citing the artist as a “maximum expression” of the tradition.

Culture Minister Alessandro Giuli, Senate President Ignazio La Russa and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani also expressed sympathy, highlighting Di Capri’s role in popularising Neapolitan music and his lasting legacy in Italy’s cultural memory. The tributes underscored his influence on the Festival della canzone napoletana and celebrated hits such as “Roberta” and “Champagne.”