Back to the Italian Classics

Everyone has there own view of the classics. However, when the opening strings of this song ensue and you find yourself transported to an intimate Italian restaurant where you can almost taste the fresh bread and breath in the smell of delicious red wine, it is simply indisputable that Mambo Italiano is one of them.

Mambo Italiano was written by Bob Merrill and recorded by Rosemary Clooney in the heart of the 1950’s. He wrote this song on the piece of a napkin in New York.  He was working on a deadline and the Italian restaurant he found himself in became the inspiration for his new hit. Merrill used the wall-pay-phone to dictate the melody, rhythm and lyrics to the pianist (an apprentice of Mitch Miller) in the recording studio. Shortly after, it became a hit.

In 1955, it reached number ten on the charts in the United States and number one on the UK Singles Chart. Soon after, it started to become featured in films. In the 1988 film Married to the Mob, a new version of the song was featured while the opening credits rolled. Following in 2004, the British Comedy School for Seduction used it during their closing credits.  It also had its part it many touring productions including “Tony & Tina’s Wedding”.
There have been numerous remixes of the song including one by Shaft in 2000, which reached number twelve on the UK Singles Chart. Additionally, artists such as Dean Martin and Bette Midler have recorded one-time versions.

Two years ago with her release of the album Born this Way, even Lady Gaga sampled the melody of this composition in her song Americano.

A second song that captured the hearts of many around the world was Al di la to Malafemmena. Composed by the famous Italian artist Totò, or more commonly know as Antonio de Curtis, this song became an anthem to Italy.  It was written in 1951, and is currently still being covered by some of the most renowned artists including Jerry Vale and Andrea Bocelli.
A brief flashback into the lives of these songs and the artists that made them timeless will be at the heart of the upcoming concert Dolce Sera (Sweet Summer Evening). The café-style evening features Zighi Baci’s popular renditions of Italian melodies.

Don't forget to enter  Zighi Baci's Rome, Paris, Hollywood CD giveaway! 
July 7th Concert Details: Doors Open: 6:30 p.m. , Concert: 7 p.m.
Cinnabar Theater, 3333 Petaluma Blvd. North, Petaluma, CA
$20 includes desserts and coffee.