Franco Migliacci, the renowned Italian composer and lyricist, passed away in a Rome clinic on Friday, September 15, at the age of 92, leaving behind a rich legacy in Italian music. His death was reported by local media, who highlighted a career that spanned decades and crossed borders, bringing Italian song to a global audience.
Throughout his prolific career Migliacci wrote songs for a wide range of artists, shaping the soundscape of Italian popular music. Among his most famous contributions are hit tunes such as Volare, also known as Nel blu dipinto di blu, as well as other beloved tracks that became staples in Italian households. His lyrics, often vivid and melodic, helped cement the enduring appeal of Italian pop music on stages and screens around the world.
Migliacci was born in Mantua, Italy, in 1930. He pursued his early studies in Florence, where his family settled for a period. There he cultivated a passion for performance and songwriting, entering a local competition for young talents that launched his public career. The experience opened doors to opportunities in film and theater, as he later appeared in a number of productions after moving to Rome, where he took on small roles that broadened his artistic horizons. His journey through education, stage, and screen reflected a versatile artist who combined composition with performance in meaningful ways.
The famous song known as Nel blu dipinto di blu, commonly referred to as Volare, was performed by Domenico Modugno and became a defining moment in Italian music. Migliacci collaborated closely with Modugno, co-writing the song that would go on to achieve worldwide recognition. The tune’s bright, soaring melody and memorable lyrics helped transcend language barriers, turning it into one of the most recognizable Italian songs across generations and continents. Its lasting popularity remains a testament to Migliacci’s ability to capture emotion and imagination through words and music.
In addition to his work on Volare, Migliacci pursued opportunities in dramatic television series and radio plays, showcasing his talent across multiple media. He also contributed as an illustrator to the children’s magazine Il Pioniere, a publication directed by Gianni Rodari, connecting his creative abilities with visual storytelling and children’s literature. This breadth of activity demonstrated his multifaceted approach to art, blending music, theater, and illustration in ways that enriched Italian culture.
Migliacci collaborated with a wide array of iconic Italian performers, including Mina, Milva, Fred Bongusto, Rita Pavone, and Patty Pravo. Through these collaborations, his influence extended beyond his own compositions, helping to shape the sound and style of Italian popular music during a vibrant era. His work continues to inspire singers, songwriters, and fans who celebrate the timeless charm of classic Italian songs.