Recent from talks
Nothing was collected or created yet.
Renato Zero
View on Wikipedia
You can help expand this article with text translated from the corresponding article in Italian. (May 2023) Click [show] for important translation instructions.
|
Key Information
Renato Fiacchini (born 30 September 1950), known by the stage name Renato Zero (Italian pronunciation: [reˈnaːto dˈdzɛːro]), is an Italian singer-songwriter, producer, dancer and actor whose career spans from the 1960s to the 2020s. Zero is the only artist to have reached the top of the Italian charts in six different decades.[1][2] With 60 million records sold, he is one of the best-selling Italian music artists.[3][4]
Early life and career
[edit]Zero was born Renato Fiacchini[1] in central Rome, in Via di Ripetta, next to the famed Via del Corso.
He quit his studies early to devote himself to his true passion, the arts, more specifically playing music and singing – though initially with little success. From an early age, he would wear make-up and cross-dress. He replied to the criticisms he received (including the recurring insult Sei uno zero! – "You're a zero!") by taking on the pseudonym Renato Zero. He recorded his first songs in 1965: "Tu", "Sì", "Il deserto", "La solitudine", which were never issued. His first published single, "Non basta sai/In mezzo ai guai" (1967), sold a total of 20 copies and was quickly forgotten.
He had several different jobs, including an appearance in an advertisement for ice-cream; work as a dancer in a TV show; playing and dancing in two musicals; and minor roles in two Fellini movies. He became friend to sisters Mia Martini and Loredana Bertè.[5]
In the early 1970s Zero's career was given a boost by the glam-rock movement, from which he benefited with his sexual ambiguity and androgynous appearance. At the same time, this led him to being accused of emulating other celebrities like David Bowie and, in particular, Marc Bolan.[6] In 1973 he issued his first LP, No! Mamma, no! (recorded live), but still with little success. The follow-up Invenzioni met the same fate.
Birth of "Zeromania"
[edit]It was not until 1976 that he scored his first hit with the single "Madame", a collaboration with songwriter Franca Evangelisti and composer Piero Pintucci, with whom Zero continued to work in the years that followed. "Madame" and the album including it, Trapezio, established a regular and loyal audience for Zero. This was to increase exponentially in the following years, until he could boast a huge following of die-hard fans that he dubbed Sorcini ("Little Mice"). Among his greatest hits at the time, all of them topping and breaking the Italian charts for quite some time, "Mi vendo", "Morire qui", "Triangolo", "Baratto" are still popular in Italy, and were among all disco clubs’ playlists.
The late 1970s and early 1980s were years of great success for Zero's character, with the LPs Zerofobia ("Zerophobia", 1977), Zerolandia (1978), Erozero (1979), Tregua (1980), Artide Antartide (1981), Via Tagliamento (1982) and Calore (1983) topping the Italian charts. At this time Renato Zero was amongst the two or three most popular singers in Italy and his songs "Il Cielo", "Il carrozzone", "Amico", "Più su" and "Spiagge" were already regarded, by fans and critics[who?], as some of the best Italian songs ever.
The name Zerolandia also referred to the moving theatre (a circus tent with a capacity of 5,000) in which he performed shows throughout Italy. On numerous occasions fans would participate in the gigs, made-up like Zero and dressed in his typical costumes.
In 1979 Zero played himself in the movie Ciao Nì (his usual greeting to his fans, which is a term of endearment that can be roughly translated as "Hi, Dear!"). In Italy this film grossed more than the American blockbuster Superman.
In 1980 he founded his own record label called Zeromania Music.[1]
The '80s: career dip
[edit]In the 1980s he began to abandon make-up and greasepaint, but this did not rid Zero of his mania for grandeur: in the 1980 tour, for example, he entered the stage riding a white horse. In 1982 he began a collaboration with the opera director Renato Serio, who was to write the string arrangements for almost all of Zero's following LPs. In late 1982 he took part in RAI's Fantastico 3, then the most popular Italian TV show.[7]
His career continued to be successful until 1984. That year, however, his new album Leoni si nasce, that he presented in a press conference disguised as a lion and was escorted by four aborigines, was a commercial failure, even though it peaked at No. 1. His 1987 album Zero marked the lowest point of his career, peaking at No. 13 but then almost immediately disappearing from the Italian charts.
1990s: the comeback
[edit]In 1991 Renato Zero participated in the Sanremo Music Festival with the song "Spalle al muro",[8] and from that moment on his career began to rise again. In 1993 he ranked No. 1 on the Italian charts with the LP Quando non-sei più nessuno. The following year L'imperfetto repeated this success. His concerts would regularly sell out, and he returned to his famous dress changes, although in a more balanced style.
In the mid-1990s Zero dubbed the character of Jack Skellington and sang the songs in the Italian release of Tim Burton's motion picture The Nightmare Before Christmas.[9]
In 1999, he sang his hit song "Il Cielo" at Pavarotti and Friends together with tenor Luciano Pavarotti, and later the same year, Italian diva Mina paid him a tribute with her album Mina n° 0, containing ten of Zero's songs, including one sung in duet with him.
From 2000s to 2020s
[edit]In 2004 his tour "Cattura il sogno/Il sogno continua" ("Catch the dream/The dream continues") was awarded by Pollstar magazine as the most successful of the year in Italy as well as one of the most successful worldwide (#30). The recording of his concerts in Rome, held at Olimpico Stadium in June, was the top selling musical DVD in 2004.
In 2005 he took part in the Italian staging of Live 8, in the Circo Massimo. In November his new album Il dono ("The Gift") topped the charts and maintained the No. 1 position until the end of the year. In December 2005 he performed in the Vatican with a song dedicated to Pope John Paul II. He also advocated for safe sex with condoms.[10] Renato Zero's 2006 tour was entitled "Zeromovimento" and involved 25 concerts. After 40 years of his musical career, in February 2006 he refused the Career Award at the Sanremo festival, stating that the award should be for artists who had reached old age.
In 2007 he toured again in major Italian cities, filling sports stadiums. The tour was called "MpZerO", and attracted 270,000 spectators over seven dates, of which 120,000 filled the Olympic Stadium of Rome, his hometown.
Presente, his 30th album, was released in Europe and the Americas on 20 March 2009. It went multi-platinum in Italy, with 80,000 copies sold in the first week. It sold over 350,000 copies.[11] Following the release of Presente, Renato toured again in autumn 2009; the "Zeronove tour" saw 30 sold-out dates and was the most successful gig of the year in Italy. On 10 December the music video for "Ancora qui", the first single from the album Presente, won the best Italian video of the year. In September 2010 Presente (CD edition + special CD+DVD edition) was certified by FIMI as the top selling album in Italy during the years 2009–2010. In 2012 Sei Zero was certified as the top selling DVD of 2011.
In 2013 he released two new albums, Amo – capitolo I and Amo – capitolo II; both peaked at No. 1 on the Italian charts. During 2013–2014 he toured again, after a three-year hiatus; his new show, "Amo in tour", saw all 59 concerts sold out, with a record tenure in Rome (twenty dates), Milan (eight dates) and Florence (eight dates).
On 13 February 2016, he was guest of honor at the Sanremo Music Festival.[12] On that occasion he announced his next album, Alt, to be released on 8 April that year. On 2 March "Chiedi", the first single from Alt, peaked at No. 1 on the iTunes chart. The album later debuted at No. 1 on the official FIMI Italian albums chart.
On 6 November 2020 "Zerosettanta vol. 2" peaked at No. 1 on the Italian album charts, making Renato Zero the only artist in history to have reached the top of the charts in six different decades.[13]
Zero's accomplishments
[edit]Renato Zero is the only artist to have reached number 1 on the Italian charts in six different decades (1970s, ‘80s, ‘90s, 2000s, 2010s and 2020s).[1] He has had no fewer than 30 albums in the Top 10.
Renato Zero has an album (Presente) certified Diamond by FIMI,[14] a goal officially achieved in the Italian charts history by only five artists (Vasco Rossi, Ligabue, Jovanotti and Modà being the others).
He likes to work with other artists, and has written songs for numerous other singers as well. With his particular approach in performances, shows and tours, he is a leading live performer in his country and obtained a unique spot in the Italian musical scene.
Throughout his career, Renato Zero has been a campaigner against drug abuse. His ‘grand force’ is regarded to be having shown "the normality of the diverse", convincing the public that diversity feeds our human abilities to feel and act with love, respect, solidarity and faith.
Personal life
[edit]Though the general consensus was that he is bisexual or gay, but conservative in not wanting to reveal his sexuality, Zero self-identified as heterosexual during an Italian talk-show. Zero has admitted to having two relationships; one with Enrica Bonaccorti,[15] a famous television host, and another with Lucy Morante, his former secretary.[16]
His image has changed through the decades, from the flamboyant, makeup-wearing transvestite of the mid-1970s, reminiscent of Marc Bolan or The Rocky Horror Picture Show’s Dr. Frank'N'Furter, to today's somber, blue-suit-clad icon of no specific gender and unspecified age, his only affectation a head of jet-black hair and a thin veil of foundation and lip gloss.
Discography and videography
[edit]| Album | Year | Peak | Weeks | Label | Sales | Certifications |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| No! Mamma, No! | 1973 | – | – | RCA | ||
| Invenzioni | 1974 | – | – | RCA | – | |
| Trapezio | 1976 | 32 | 11 | RCA | ||
| Zerofobia | 1977 | 16 | 57 | RCA |
|
|
| Zerolandia | 1978 | 3 | 35 | Zerolandia/RCA |
|
|
| EroZero | 1979 | 1 | 25 | Zerolandia/RCA | ||
| Tregua | 1980 | 1 | 26 | Zerolandia/BMG |
|
|
| Icaro (live) | 1981 | 1 | 35 | Zerolandia/BMG | ||
| Artide Antartide | 1981 | 1 | 24 | Zerolandia/BMG |
|
|
| Via Tagliamento 1965/1970 | 1982 | 1 | 21 | Zerolandia/BMG |
|
|
| Calore EP | 1983 | 1 | 20 | Zerolandia/BMG | ||
| Leoni si nasce | 1984 | 1 | 16 | Zerolandia/BMG | ||
| Identikit (anthology) | 1984 | 14 | 7 | Zerolandia/BMG | ||
| Soggetti smarriti | 1986 | 2 | 22 | Zerolandia/BMG |
|
|
| Zero | 1987 | 13 | 17 | Zerolandia/BMG | ||
| Voyeur | 1989 | 5 | 21 | Zerolandia/BMG | ||
| Prometeo (live) | 1991 | 3 | 20 | Zerolandia/BMG | ||
| La coscienza di Zero | 1991 | 5 | 8 | RCA | ||
| Quando non-sei più di nessuno | 1993 | 1 | 23 | Zerolandia/BMG | ||
| Passaporto per Fonopoli EP | 1993 | 1 | 13 | Zerolandia/BMG | – | |
| L'imperfetto | 1994 | 1 | 23 | Fonopoli/Sony |
|
|
| Sulle tracce dell'imperfetto | 1995 | 2 | 21 | Fonopoli/Sony | ||
| Amore dopo amore | 1998 | 2[24] | 51 | Fonopoli/Sony |
|
|
| Amore dopo amore Tour dopo tour (live) | 1999 | 1 | 34 | Fonopoli/Sony | ||
| I Miei Numeri | 2000 | 12[25] | ||||
| Tutti gli Zeri del Mondo | 2000 | 3 | 19 | Fonopoli/Sony | ||
| La Curva dell'Angelo | 2001 | 1 | 40 | Tattica/Sony |
|
|
| Cattura | 2003 | 1 | 53 | Tattica/Sony |
|
|
| Figli del Sogno (live) | 2004 | 2 | 39 | Tattica/Sony | ||
| Figli del Sogno DVD | 2004 | 1 | 60 | Tattica/Sony | ||
| Il Dono | 2005 | 1[28] | 35 | Tattica/Sony | ||
| Renatissimo! (anthology) | 2006 | 3[29] | 34 | Tattica/Sony |
|
|
| Zero40 DVD | 2008 | 1 | 28 | Universal | ||
| Presente | 2009 | 1 | 89 | Tattica |
|
|
| Segreto Amore | 2010 | Tattica/IndipendenteMente |
| |||
| "Zeronove" tour DVD | 2010 | 1 | 13 | Tattica | ||
| Puro Spirito | 2011 | Tattica/IndipendenteMente |
| |||
| Sei Zero DVD | 2011 | 1 | 20 | Tattica | ||
| Amo - Capitolo I | 2013 | 1 | 28 | Tattica/IndipendenteMente |
| |
| Amo - Capitolo II | 2013 | 1 | 16 | Tattica/IndipendenteMente |
| |
| Alt | 2016 | 1 | Tattica/IndipendenteMente |
| ||
| Arenà (live CD/DVD) | 2016 | 9 | Tattica/IndipendenteMente |
| ||
| Zerovskij | 2017 | 1 | Tattica/IndipendenteMente |
| ||
| Zerovskij – Live | 2018 | 3 [31] |
Tattica/IndipendenteMente | |||
| Alt in Tour | 2018 | 6 [32] |
Tattica/IndipendenteMente | |||
| Zero il folle | 2019 | 1 [33] |
Tattica/IndipendenteMente |
| ||
| Zerosettanta vol. 3 | 2020 | 2 | Tattica/IndipendenteMente |
| ||
| Zerosettanta vol. 2 | 2020 | 1 | Tattica/IndipendenteMente |
| ||
| Zerosettanta vol. 1 | 2020 | 2 | Tattica/IndipendenteMente |
| ||
| Autoritratto | 2023 | 2 [34] |
Tattica/IndipendenteMente | |||
| L'OraZero | 2025 | 4 [35] |
Tattica/IndipendenteMente |
Filmography
[edit]Films
[edit]| Title | Year | Role | Director | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Io non protesto, io amo | 1967 | Dancing boy at the party | Ferdinando Baldi | Debut on screen |
| La bambolona | 1968 | Himself | Franco Giraldi | Cameo appearance |
| I ragazzi di Bandiera Gialla | Singer | Mariano Laurenti | ||
| Fellini Satyricon | 1969 | Extra | Federico Fellini | Uncredited |
| The Italian Connection | 1972 | Trini's friend | Ferdinando Di Leo | |
| Roma | Extra | Federico Fellini | Uncredited | |
| Orfeo 9 | 1973 | The Happiness Seller | Tito Schipa | Rock musical; supporting role |
| Fellini's Casanova | 1976 | Organist | Federico Fellini | Cameo appearance |
| Ciao nì! | 1979 | Himself | Paolo Poeti | |
| The Nightmare Before Christmas | 1993 | Jack Skellington (voice) | Henry Selick | Italian dub; voice role |
Television
[edit]| Title | Year | Role | Network | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fantastico | 1982–1984 | Himself / co-host | Rai 1 | Variety show (seasons 3 and 5) |
| Sanremo Music Festival 1991 | 1991 | Himself / Contestant | Rai 1 | Runner-up, with the song "Spalle al muro" |
| Mostra internazionale di musica leggera | 1992 | Himself / Presenter | Rai 1 | Annual music ceremony |
| Sanremo Music Festival 1993 | 1993 | Himself / Contestant | Rai 1 | 5° place, with the song "Ave Maria" |
| Dopofestival | 1994 | Himself / co-host | Rai 1 | Special aired after the Sanremo Music Festival |
| Un disco per l'estate | 1997–1998 | Himself / co-host | Canale 5 | Annual music festival |
| Ciao Darwin | 1998 | Himself / Guest | Canale 5 | Episode: "Casalinghe VS Donne in carriera" |
| Tutti gli Zeri del mondo | 2000 | Himself / Presenter | Rai 1 | Variety show |
| Live 8 | 2005 | Himself / Performer | Rai 1 | Special |
| X Factor | 2009 | Himself / Performer | Rai 2 | Episode dated April 19, 2009 |
| Sanremo Music Festival 2016 | 2016 | Himself / Musical guest | Rai 1 | Annual music festival |
| A raccontare comincia tu | 2019 | Himself / Guest | Rai 3 | Episode: "Renato Zero" |
| Con il cuore - Nel nome di Francesco | 2021 | Himself / Guest | Rai 1 | Musical program |
References
[edit]- ^ a b c d Ernesto Assante (29 September 2020). "I 70 anni di Renato Zero, il rivoluzionario che non ha mai tradito se stesso e il pubblico". la Repubblica. Retrieved 14 September 2021.
- ^ "Renato Zero segna un nuovo record: Mai nessuno come lui nelle classifiche di vendita". Archived from the original on 12 February 2021. Retrieved 5 December 2020.
- ^ Deirdre Pirro (18 November 2010). "The best years of our lives". The Florentine. Retrieved 14 September 2021.
- ^ "RENATO ZERO/ Compie 60 anni uno dei cantanti più amati d'Italia. l'Intervista: "Sono profondamente religioso"". 23 September 2010. Archived from the original on 24 December 2013. Retrieved 24 April 2012.
- ^ "Mimì, Loredana e Renato: Quel trio in cerca di fortuna - Stone Music". 23 April 2021.
- ^ "I primi 70 anni di Renato Zero, lo Ziggy Stardust del pop italiano". Corriere del Ticino. 20 September 2021. Retrieved 14 September 2021.
- ^ Giulio Bonotti (5 July 2021). "Raffaella Carrà e quel successo inaspettato di Fantastico 3 che la legò a Milano. Sala: "Grazie Raffaella, le icone non muoiono mai"". la Repubblica. Retrieved 14 September 2021.
{{cite magazine}}: Cite magazine requires|magazine=(help) - ^ Giuditta Avellina (2 March 2021). "Perché Sanremo è Sanremo! 5 cose indimenticabili del 1991". GQ Italia. Retrieved 14 September 2021.
- ^ "The Nightmare Before Christmas at AntoniaGenna.net's Il Mondo Dei Doppiatori". Antoniogenna.net. Retrieved 21 August 2011.
- ^ Paolo Conti (3 December 2005). "Renato Zero: "I gay? Dio non vuole ghetti"". Corriere della Sera. Retrieved 14 September 2021.
- ^ a b Sandra Cesarale (11 May 2010). "Zero attacca i talent show: usano i ragazzi come cavalli". Corriere della Sera. Retrieved 14 September 2021.
le canzoni del cd "Presente" (350 mila copie vendute)
- ^ "Renato Zero mattatore a Sanremo: medley e nuovo brano". Rai News. 14 February 2016. Retrieved 14 September 2021.
- ^ "Renato Zero primo in classifica con Zerosettanta Volume Due, davanti a Izi e Pezzali". 6 November 2020.
- ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m "Italian certifications – Renato Zero" (in Italian). Federazione Industria Musicale Italiana. Retrieved 14 September 2021.
- ^ "Enrica Bonaccorti e la storia con Renato Zero: "Dovevamo sposarci"". Metropolitan Magazine. 25 July 2021. Retrieved 14 September 2021.
- ^ "Lucy Morante, chi l'ex fidanzata di Renato Zero". Metropolitan Magazine. 25 July 2021. Retrieved 14 September 2021.
- ^ Gianni Pennacchi (15 November 1977). "Una Wanda Osiris con più fantasia". La Stampa. Retrieved 14 September 2021.
- ^ Valeria Salamone (30 September 2020). ""Zerolandia", il folle mondo di Renato Zero". Metropolitan Magazine. Retrieved 14 September 2021.
- ^ "Renato Zero, dopo 25 anni ripubblicati quattro album storici della sua carriera" (in Italian). Adnkronos. Retrieved 14 September 2021.
- ^ "I settanta anni di Renato Zero, le provocazioni e le canzoni più belle". Rai News. 29 September 2020. Retrieved 14 September 2021.
- ^ Mario Luzzato Fegiz (17 January 1983). "Torna Renato Zero ma il tendone è semivuoto". Corriere della Sera. Retrieved 14 September 2021.
Ma Renato Zero nega decisamente che la sua popolarità sia in declino: il mio ultimo album ha venduto 600.000 copie - dice - Non vedo chi possa dire che sono in crisi.
- ^ a b "Comunicato Stampa: Renato Zero in concerto per Radio Italia e Video Italia Solo Musica Italiana". Rockol. 17 March 2004. Retrieved 14 September 2021.
- ^ "Renato Zero torna in tour dopo due anni". Corriere della Sera. 27 August 1995. Retrieved 14 September 2021.
,basati soprattuto sul suo ultimo album, "Imperfetto", che ad oggi ha venduto circa 200 mila copie
- ^ "Hits of the world". Billboard. 16 May 1998. p. 50. Retrieved 14 September 2021 – via Google Books.
- ^ "Hits of the world". Billboard. 27 May 2000. p. 64. Retrieved 14 September 2021 – via Google Books.
- ^ Mario Luzzato Fegiz (20 July 2001). "Zero "imperatore " all'Olimpico". Billboard. Retrieved 14 September 2021.
In oltre trent'anni di carriera ha venduto oltre 17 milioni di dischi. L'ultimo album, "La curva dell'angelo" e a quota 400 mila copie
- ^ Sandra Cesarale (23 June 2004). "Renato Zero, un sogno targato Broadway". Corriere della Sera. Retrieved 14 September 2021.
dal nuovo album "Cattura" (500 mila vendute)
- ^ "Hits of the world". Billboard. 10 December 2005. p. 64. Retrieved 14 September 2021 – via Google Books.
- ^ "Hits of the world". Billboard. 20 January 2007. p. 58. Retrieved 14 September 2021 – via Google Books.
- ^ "LE CIFRE DI VENDITA 2006" (PDF). Musica e dischi. Archived from the original (PDF) on 6 January 2014. Retrieved 14 September 2021.
- ^ "Album – Classifica settimanale WK 21 (dal 2018-05-18 al 2018-05-24)" (in Italian). Federazione Industria Musicale Italiana. Retrieved 26 May 2018.
- ^ "Album – Classifica settimanale WK 49 (dal 2018-11-29 al 2018-12-06)" (in Italian). Federazione Industria Musicale Italiana. Retrieved 11 December 2018.
- ^ "Album – Classifica settimanale WK 40 (dal 04.10.2019 al 10.10.2019)" (in Italian). Federazione Industria Musicale Italiana. Retrieved 12 October 2019.
- ^ "Album – Classifica settimanale WK 50 (dal 08.12.2023 al 14.12.2023)" (in Italian). Federazione Industria Musicale Italiana. Retrieved 16 December 2023.
- ^ "Album – Classifica settimanale WK 41 (dal 03.10.2025 al 09.10.2025)" (in Italian). Federazione Industria Musicale Italiana. Retrieved 11 October 2025.
External links
[edit]- Official website (Italian and English)
- Zeromania, fan site
- Renato Zero, tribute space
Renato Zero
View on GrokipediaEarly life
Childhood and family background
Renato Fiacchini, known professionally as Renato Zero, was born on September 30, 1950, in central Rome, Italy, to Domenico Fiacchini, a policeman of Marchigian origin, and Ada Pica, a nurse.[6][7] He grew up in a close-knit family that included his parents, maternal grandmother Renata, three older sisters named Vincenza (Enza), Fiorella, and Maria Pia, and a younger brother, Giampiero.[8][9] The family resided initially at Via Ripetta 54, near Piazza del Popolo in the historic heart of Rome, where Renato spent his early childhood surrounded by the vibrant urban life of the city.[6][10] Later, the family relocated to the Montagnola neighborhood on the outskirts of Rome, a move that shifted Renato from the bustling center to a more suburban environment during his formative years.[11] Despite the large household, Renato has described his childhood as somewhat solitary, marked by a deep familial bond that he later characterized as "a wonderful lightning rod" for support and presence.[12][13] This environment, rich in affection from his siblings and parents, fostered his early interests in the arts, though he left formal education prematurely to pursue creative endeavors.[11]Initial entry into entertainment
Renato Fiacchini, who would later adopt the stage name Renato Zero, began his entry into the entertainment world during his teenage years in Rome, driven by a passion for performance and music. At the age of 14, in 1964, he secured his first professional contract at the Ciak nightclub in Rome, earning 500 lire per day for appearances that marked his initial foray into live entertainment.[14] This debut in the city's vibrant nightlife scene exposed him to the performative arts, though success remained elusive at the time.[14] By the mid-1960s, Zero frequented influential venues like the Piper Club, where he networked with emerging talents including Loredana Bertè, Mia Martini, and Patty Pravo, immersing himself in Rome's burgeoning music and club culture.[15] In 1966, his performances at the Piper caught the attention of choreographer Don Lurio, leading to his recruitment into the dance troupe "Collettoni e Collettine" backing singer Rita Pavone, which provided formal training and visibility in television and live shows.[14] He also participated as a studio audience member and aspiring performer on radio programs such as "Bandiera Gialla," hosted by Renzo Arbore and Gianni Boncompagni, which spotlighted young beat and rock enthusiasts. Zero's early ventures extended to minor roles in film and additional radio work, including appearances as an extra in the 1968 movie La bambolona and Federico Fellini's Satyricon in 1969, as well as contributions to the radio show "Per voi giovani."[16] These experiences honed his stage presence and dancing skills, laying the groundwork for his musical pursuits. His official entry into recording came in 1967 with the release of his debut single, "Non basta sai/In mezzo ai guai," issued by RCA Italiana on April 27, though it sold poorly and faded quickly.[17] Despite these modest beginnings, these steps established Zero's foothold in Italy's entertainment landscape, blending dance, acting, and song in the dynamic 1960s scene.[14]Career
1960s–1970s: Beginnings and the birth of Zeromania
Renato Fiacchini, known professionally as Renato Zero, began his entertainment career in the mid-1960s as a teenager in Rome's vibrant nightclub scene. At age 14 in 1964, he secured his first professional engagement at the Ciak club, performing as a dancer and singer for 500 lire per day. He soon became a regular at the iconic Piper Club, where he honed his stage presence and formed early connections with emerging artists like Loredana Bertè and Mia Martini. These venues exposed him to the evolving pop and rock culture, shaping his eclectic style that blended dance, theater, and music.[1][18] By the late 1960s, Zero expanded into television and film, working as a dancer on RAI variety shows directed by Don Lurio and appearing as an extra in Federico Fellini's Satyricon (1969). He also joined the Italian cast of the musical Hair in 1970, further developing his performative flair. His recording debut came in 1967 with the single "Non basta sai" backed with "In mezzo ai guai" on RCA Italiana, though it garnered limited attention. Unreleased demos from 1965, such as "Tu" and "La solitudine," marked his initial songwriting efforts, but commercial breakthrough eluded him until the 1970s.[18][19] The early 1970s saw Zero's career accelerate, propelled by the glam rock movement and his adoption of an androgynous, provocative aesthetic that challenged social norms. His first album, the live recording No! Mamma, no! (1973, RCA Italiana), addressed themes of rebellion and anti-war sentiment but achieved modest success. The follow-up Invenzioni (1974) similarly struggled commercially, yet showcased his theatrical songwriting. Breakthrough arrived with Trapezio (1976), a double album featuring elaborate arrangements and hits like "Il triangolo," which topped Italian charts and established his reputation as a showman. Subsequent releases, including Zerofobia (1977) and Zerolandia (1978, his own Zerolandia label), solidified his stardom with over a million copies sold combined, blending pop, rock, and operatic elements.[20][19] This period marked the birth of "Zeromania," the fervent cultural phenomenon surrounding Zero's music and persona. His extravagant live shows, characterized by costumes, acrobatics, and direct engagement with audiences, cultivated a devoted fanbase known as the "Sorcini" (little mice), symbolizing their playful yet obsessive loyalty. By the late 1970s, Zeromania's impact was evident in sold-out arena tours and media frenzy, positioning Zero as a pioneer of Italian pop theater who used his platform to advocate for tolerance and self-expression.[18][21]1980s: Commercial peak and subsequent dip
The 1980s marked a period of initial commercial triumph for Renato Zero, building on the momentum from his late-1970s breakthroughs, as he released several chart-topping albums that solidified his status as one of Italy's leading pop artists. His double album Tregua (1980) debuted the decade with massive success, reaching number one on the Italian charts and featuring hit singles such as "Amico" and "Spiagge," which captured themes of friendship and introspection while maintaining his theatrical flair.[22][23] This release was followed by Artide Antartide (1981), another number-one album that explored emotional isolation through symphonic arrangements and personal narratives, further boosting his sales and fanbase known as the "Sorcini."[22][19] Early-decade tours, like the 1980 production, emphasized grandeur with elaborate staging and costumes, drawing massive crowds to arenas and reinforcing "Zeromania" as a cultural phenomenon. Zero's commercial peak continued through the mid-1980s with additional top-charting releases, including Calore (1983) and Leoni si nasce (1984), both of which hit number one and amassed significant weeks on the Italian album charts, totaling over 47 weeks at the top across his career up to that point.[24][22] These albums shifted slightly toward more mature, introspective songwriting while retaining his signature pop-rock energy, with tracks like "La mia città parla" from Calore addressing urban alienation. By this time, five of his 1980s albums had reached the summit of the Italian charts, underscoring his dominance in the domestic market.[23] However, Zero began toning down his extravagant makeup and greasepaint persona during this era, aiming for a more relatable image that still incorporated opulent live spectacles. Toward the latter half of the decade, Zero experienced a noticeable commercial dip, attributed in part to evolving musical tastes and his stylistic evolution. The 1985 album Ponti di memoria peaked at number two, signaling a slowdown, while Soggetti smarriti (1986) also reached only second place and sold fewer copies than his prior works, reflecting audience fatigue with his increasingly conceptual approach.[25] The double album Zero (1987), intended as a bold artistic statement tying back to his stage name, proved a significant disappointment, barely entering the top 20 and marking the nadir of his career trajectory at the time, with critics noting its lack of innovation amid 24 tracks that failed to resonate broadly.[26] By contrast to his earlier arena-filling tours, promotions for Zero relegated him to smaller venues with limited attendance, highlighting the shift from peak popularity. The decade closed with Voyeur (1989), which stabilized but did not recapture the heights of the early 1980s, as Zero navigated a transitional phase in his artistry.[19]1990s: Artistic resurgence
Following a period of declining popularity in the late 1980s, Renato Zero experienced a significant artistic resurgence in the 1990s, marked by renewed commercial success and critical attention. His career revival began with his debut appearance at the Sanremo Music Festival in 1991, where he performed "Spalle al muro", a song written by Mariella Nava addressing themes of youthful decline and perseverance. The track earned second place in the competition amid widespread audience acclaim, including prolonged applause that underscored his enduring appeal.[27][28] This momentum propelled the release of two key albums in 1991: the live recording Prometeo, capturing his dynamic stage performances, and the studio album La Coscienza di Zero, which explored introspective and philosophical themes central to his evolving artistry. Zero maintained a prolific output throughout the decade, issuing studio albums such as Quando non sei più di nessuno (1993), L'imperfetto (1994), and Amore dopo amore (1998), alongside the chart-topping EP Passaporto per Fonopoli (1993). Notable successes included L'imperfetto and Passaporto per Fonopoli reaching number one on the Italian albums chart, reaffirming his commercial viability and connection with fans.[29] Live releases like Sulle tracce dell'imperfetto (1995) and Tutti gli zeri del mondo (1999) highlighted his theatrical prowess and the fervent "Zeromania" phenomenon, with elaborate tours blending music, dance, and narrative elements. The decade's work emphasized resilience, human imperfection, and emotional depth, positioning Zero as a mature, influential voice in Italian pop, with over a dozen releases that collectively sold millions and sustained his status as a cultural icon.2000s–2020s: Sustained success and evolution
Entering the 2000s, Renato Zero built on his artistic resurgence by releasing Tutti gli Zeri del Mondo in 2000, a double album that explored themes of human connection and spirituality through his signature eclectic pop style. This was followed by La Curva dell'Angelo in 2002, which debuted at number 1 on the Italian charts, and Cattura in 2003, demonstrating his evolving production techniques with contributions from composers like Danilo Madonia. The live recording Figli del Sogno (2004) captured performances from his tour, highlighting his theatrical stage presence and vocal range in front of sold-out arenas. These releases solidified his commercial viability, with multiple entries in Italy's top 10 charts during the decade.[19][29] Renato Zero's touring activity remained robust, exemplified by the Zeromovimento Tour in 2006, which comprised 25 concerts across Italy and emphasized multimedia elements in his shows, drawing tens of thousands of fans per leg. As the decade progressed, he adapted to digital distribution while preserving his analog-era flair, releasing Presente in 2009, an album blending rock and ballad elements that reflected personal introspection amid societal changes. The subsequent ZeroNoveTour (2009–2010) featured elaborate sets and guest appearances, culminating in the live album Zeronovetour Presente (2010), which sold over 350,000 copies and earned multi-platinum certification in Italy.[30][31] In the 2010s, Zero's output evolved toward more collaborative and thematic projects, including the compilation Segreto Amore (2010) and studio efforts like Zero il Folle (2019), which incorporated contemporary electronic influences while addressing identity and resilience—core motifs in his oeuvre. For his 70th birthday in 2020, he launched the Zerosettanta trilogy, with Volume Due topping the FIMI charts and celebrating his seven-decade career through reinterpreted classics and new material. Tours such as the Amo Tour (2013) and Alt in Tour (2016) showcased refined choreography and orchestral arrangements, performing to over 100,000 attendees annually in major venues. His sustained chart performance, with over 30 top-10 albums across decades, underscored his enduring appeal.[32][33] The 2020s marked further evolution, with Zero embracing streaming platforms and releasing Autoritratto (2022), a reflective work produced during the pandemic that integrated acoustic elements and social commentary. In 2023, the Zero a Zero Tour revisited his catalog in intimate arena settings, performing 20 shows to critical acclaim for its emotional depth. L'Ora Zero (released October 3, 2025), which debuted at number 4 on the Italian albums chart, features 19 new tracks, signaling ongoing innovation at age 75, while the L'Ora Zero In Tour (2026) will span multiple Italian cities. Throughout this era, Zero's music shifted toward universality, influencing younger Italian artists and maintaining his role as a cultural icon through philanthropy-tied performances and thematic depth.[1][34][35]Artistic style and legacy
Performance innovations and musical influences
Renato Zero revolutionized Italian pop performance through his pioneering adoption of glam rock aesthetics in the late 1960s, predating international figures like David Bowie and Marc Bolan by incorporating androgynous makeup, platform heels, and extravagant costumes that blurred gender lines. His stage persona as an "incurable transformist" emphasized dramatic transformations, often drawing from mythological and theatrical motifs, as seen in his 1976 Piccolo Slam appearance performing "Madame," where he embodied a drag-inspired diva figure. These innovations extended to immersive live shows that fused music with theatrical storytelling, creating communal rituals that celebrated individuality and rebellion against societal norms.[36][1][21] Zero's performances further innovated by integrating emotional depth and audience interaction, using feathers, heavy makeup, and provocative outfits to amplify themes of alienation and hope, positioning his concerts as cathartic spectacles for outsiders. In rock operas like Orfeo 9, he portrayed the Venditore di felicità (Happiness Seller), singing "Il venditore di felicità" to explore themes of existential happiness, blending operatic grandeur with rock energy. This approach not only challenged conservative Italian entertainment norms but also influenced subsequent generations of performers with its emphasis on visual spectacle and narrative-driven staging.[21] Musically, Zero drew from the vibrant Roman club scene of the 1960s, particularly the Piper club, where he debuted in 1967, absorbing influences from beat music, Italian folk traditions, and emerging glam rock. His eclectic style spans pop-rock experimentation, operatic elements, and introspective balladry, evident in hits like "Triangolo" (1978) and "Il Cielo" (1995), which reflect inspirations from artists such as Mina and Adriano Celentano while incorporating international glam's theatrical flair. These influences shaped his songwriting, focusing on personal liberation and social commentary, sustaining his relevance across genres from the 1970s onward.[1][37][21]Awards, records, and cultural impact
Renato Zero has received numerous accolades throughout his career, recognizing his contributions to Italian music and performance. In 1998, he was awarded a special prize at the Festivalbar for his enduring impact on popular music.[38] He earned the Telegatto d'Oro in 2007 for Best Tour, honoring his innovative live shows.[38] At the Wind Music Awards, Zero was honored multiple times, including in 2009 for the album Presente, in 2011 with a platinum certification for Segreto Amore and a special award for the Sei Zero tour, and further performances and recognitions in subsequent years at the Verona Arena events.[39] He has also received lifetime achievement awards, such as a prestigious career honor at the Sanremo Festival, though he notably declined a similar offer in 2006 to focus on his artistic evolution.[40] In 2025, he received the Telegatto award at the Festival dello Spettacolo for his lifetime contributions to Italian entertainment.[5] In terms of commercial records, Zero holds the distinction of being the only Italian artist to top the national album charts in six consecutive decades, from the 1970s through the 2020s, demonstrating his sustained relevance across generations.[41] His 2009 album Presente achieved diamond certification from the Federazione Industria Musicale Italiana (FIMI), the first such award for an Italian artist, for sales exceeding 300,000 units including its deluxe edition ZeroNoveTour Presente with live DVD.[42] Other releases, like Segreto Amore (2011), earned platinum status, underscoring his commercial prowess in the digital era.[39] Zero's cultural impact extends far beyond sales and charts, positioning him as a transformative figure in Italian entertainment. His extravagant, theatrical style and androgynous personas in the 1970s challenged societal norms around gender and identity, paving the way for greater fluidity in Italian pop culture and influencing later artists in Sanremo and beyond.[43] Through songs addressing love, politics, and personal struggles, he fostered deep connections with audiences, creating the "Sorcini"—one of Italy's earliest organized fan communities, known for their loyalty and communal spirit rather than mere fandom.[44] Zero's openness about his life and advocacy for tolerance have left a lasting imprint on Italian society, inspiring discussions on authenticity and reinvention in music.[40]Personal life
Relationships and family
Renato Zero has maintained a private stance on his personal relationships, emphasizing emotional connections over formal commitments. He shared a significant early romance with television host Enrica Bonaccorti in the 1970s, lasting about two years; Zero has reflected on it as a "wonderful journey" that evolved rather than ended, marked by mutual support during his rising career.[45] His longest partnership was with Lucy Morante, a former manager and sister of musician Massimo Morante of the band Goblin, whom he met in the 1970s. Described by Zero as his lifelong companion who "married both me and my character," their bond remained strong without marriage, with Morante playing a key role in his professional life by assisting with record sales after concerts.[46] Zero has expressed a preference for women in relationships, stating he has never envisioned partnerships with men.[45] Zero became a father through adoption in 2003, when he legally adopted Roberto Anselmi Fiacchini, born in 1973, who had worked as his bodyguard. Orphaned young and raised partly in an institution, Roberto took on the Fiacchini surname and became Zero's sole child, fulfilling the artist's long-expressed desire for family amid his childless personal life.[47] Zero has spoken of the adoption as a profound paternal bond, noting Roberto's integration into his life as a way to combat solitude.[48]Philanthropy and personal philosophy
Renato Zero has long demonstrated a commitment to philanthropy through initiatives supporting youth development and social causes. In 1993, he founded the Associazione Culturale Fonòpoli, a nonprofit organization aimed at providing training, orientation, and entrepreneurial opportunities in the arts for young people, including music, theater, dance, literature, and cinema. The project emphasizes cultural preservation and employability, with programs like workshops and collaborations with community institutions to foster solidarity and artistic expression among emerging talents.[49] His philanthropic efforts extend to participation in high-profile charity events and campaigns. Zero performed at the 1999 Pavarotti & Friends concert in Modena, which raised funds for children affected by Hurricane Mitch in Guatemala and the Kosovo conflict. He has also been a supporter of the Andrea Bocelli Foundation, attending ribbon-cutting ceremonies for projects like the Franco Corelli ABF Music Academy in Camerino in 2020 and contributing to SMS donation drives in 2017 and 2018 to aid education and community rebuilding efforts in earthquake-affected areas. Additionally, in 2019, he endorsed the Testedialkol manifesto, an initiative by an association combating alcohol abuse among youth, aligning with his broader advocacy for preventing substance-related harms.[50][51][52][53] Zero's personal philosophy is deeply rooted in resilience, authenticity, and human connection, often reflected in his music and public statements. He views life as a continuous act of defiance against adversity, stating that he has never allowed circumstances to "corner" him, even during early career struggles like performing to a single audience member in 1973. Influenced by his Roman upbringing, he prioritizes genuine interactions over virtual ones, criticizing social media for fostering isolation and urging people to "turn off Facebook and talk more" to combat individualism and racism. His belief in faith is non-dogmatic, seeing God in natural elements like clouds and human moments such as a child's gaze or a mother's labor, while using his platform to advocate for the marginalized, including the elderly and youth facing societal neglect. Through these principles, Zero promotes a life of active engagement, where art serves as both personal expression and a tool for social and cultural awakening.[54][55][56]Discography and videography
Studio and live albums
Renato Zero's discography features 34 studio albums and 7 live albums, contributing to a total of 41 releases excluding official collections, spanning over five decades of his career. His studio work began in the early 1970s with glam rock and pop influences, evolving toward theatrical narratives and social commentary in subsequent decades. Key early releases include No! Mamma, No! (1973), his debut album blending rock and variety show elements; Invenzioni (1974); Trapezio (1976); Zerofobia (1977); Zerolandia (1978), a conceptual exploration of an imaginary world; and EroZero (1979).[19] The 1980s marked a commercial peak with double albums like Tregua (1980) and Artide Antartide (1981), followed by Calore (1983), Identikit (1984), Soggetti Smarriti (1986), Zero (1987), and Voyeur (1989), often incorporating elaborate production and multimedia elements tied to his stage persona.[19][29] In the 1990s, Zero's studio output shifted toward more personal and philosophical themes, exemplified by La Coscienza di Zero (1991), Quando Non Sei Più di Nessuno (1993), L'Imperfetto (1994), Sulle Tracce dell'Imperfetto (1995), and Amore Dopo Amore (1998).[19] The 2000s brought continued innovation with Tutti gli Zeri del Mondo (2000), La Curva dell'Angelo (2002), Cattura (2003), and Il Dono (2005), emphasizing emotional depth and orchestral arrangements.[19][57] Later studio albums include Presente (2009), Amo (2013), Zero il Folle (2019), Autoritratto (2023), and the 2025 release L'OraZero, which incorporates contemporary production while maintaining his signature lyrical introspection.[33][57] Zero's live albums, numbering seven, preserve the dynamic, theatrical essence of his concerts, known for elaborate costumes, choreography, and audience engagement. The earliest, Icaro (1981), captures a pivotal tour performance.[58] Subsequent releases include Prometeo (1991), recorded during a mythological-themed tour; Amore Dopo Amore Tour Dopo Tour (1999), a double album from his late-1990s arena shows; Presente ZeroNoveTour (2010); Sei Zero (2011); Arenà - Renato Zero si racconta (2016); Alt in Tour (2018); and Zerovskij Solo per Amore - Live (2018), highlighting intimate piano-driven sets and full productions, underscoring his enduring stage presence.[59][60] These recordings not only document his tours but also serve as companion pieces to studio works, often featuring exclusive arrangements.[61]| Year | Studio Album |
|---|---|
| 1973 | No! Mamma, No! |
| 1974 | Invenzioni |
| 1976 | Trapezio |
| 1977 | Zerofobia |
| 1978 | Zerolandia |
| 1979 | EroZero |
| 1980 | Tregua |
| 1981 | Artide Antartide |
| 1983 | Calore |
| 1984 | Identikit |
| 1986 | Soggetti Smarriti |
| 1987 | Zero |
| 1989 | Voyeur |
| 1991 | La Coscienza di Zero |
| 1993 | Quando Non Sei Più di Nessuno |
| 1994 | L'Imperfetto |
| 1995 | Sulle Tracce dell'Imperfetto |
| 1998 | Amore Dopo Amore |
| 2000 | Tutti gli Zeri del Mondo |
| 2002 | La Curva dell'Angelo |
| 2003 | Cattura |
| 2005 | Il Dono |
| 2009 | Presente |
| 2013 | Amo |
| 2019 | Zero il Folle |
| 2023 | Autoritratto |
| 2025 | L'OraZero |
| Year | Live Album |
|---|---|
| 1981 | Icaro |
| 1991 | Prometeo |
| 1999 | Amore Dopo Amore Tour Dopo Tour |
| 2010 | Presente ZeroNoveTour |
| 2011 | Sei Zero |
| 2016 | Arenà - Renato Zero si racconta |
| 2018 | Alt in Tour |
| 2018 | Zerovskij Solo per Amore - Live |
Videography
Renato Zero has released several video albums and DVDs documenting his theatrical live performances. Notable releases include Zero 40 Live (2008), a concert video celebrating 40 years in music; Figli del Sogno (2004), capturing the 2003-2004 tour; Cattura il Meglio in Tour (2004); Renato Zero Live (various tours); and more recent Zerovskij - Solo per Amore Live dall'Arena di Verona (2018). These videos highlight his elaborate stage productions and have contributed to his visual legacy in Italian entertainment.[19]Singles and compilations
Renato Zero released his debut single "Non basta sai" in 1967, marking the beginning of a prolific career in Italian pop music that spanned over five decades. Early singles in the 1970s established his unique theatrical style, blending rock, pop, and social commentary. His breakthrough came with "Madame" in 1976, which became his first major hit and introduced the "Zeromania" phenomenon, characterized by elaborate performances and devoted fanbase. Subsequent releases like "Triangolo" (1978) and "Il carrozzone" (1979) topped or neared the top of Italian charts, showcasing his ability to address themes of love, society, and personal struggle with catchy melodies and dramatic flair.[62][63] In the 1980s, Zero's singles continued to achieve commercial success, with "Amico" reaching number one on the Italian Hit Parade in 1980–1981, emphasizing themes of friendship and resilience. "Soldi" (1982) peaked at number 16, critiquing materialism amid economic shifts in Italy. The 1990s and 2000s saw a mix of introspective and anthemic tracks, such as "Spalle al muro" (1991) and "A braccia aperte" (2003), the latter debuting at number three on Italian charts. More recent singles include "Senza" (2025), reflecting his enduring relevance in contemporary Italian music. Zero's singles often served as precursors to his albums, driving sales and live attendance, with over 45 million records sold worldwide.[64][65][66]| Notable Singles | Year | Peak Position (Italy) | Key Album/Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| Madame | 1976 | Top 10 | Trapezio |
| Triangolo | 1978 | #2 | Zerolandia |
| Il carrozzone | 1979 | #1 | EroZero |
| Amico | 1980 | #1 | Tregua |
| Soldi | 1982 | #16 | Artide Antartide |
| A braccia aperte | 2003 | #3 | Cattura |
| Senza | 2025 | - | L'OraZero |
| Notable Compilations | Year | Label | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Realtà e fantasia... | 1979 | RCA | Hits from 1970s albums |
| Via Tagliamento 1965–1970 | 1982 | Zerolandia | Early demos and rarities |
| Sulle tracce dell'imperfetto | 1995 | Fonòpoli/Sony | Double CD with 1990s tracks |
| Tutti gli zeri del mondo | 2000 | Fonòpoli/Sony | 30 career-spanning songs, platinum |
| Mille e Uno Zero (series) | 2023– | Sony | 15 vinyl reissues with booklet |