On April 25th, Italy celebrates the Liberation Day, one of the most important celebrations of the year and much appreciated by Ocarina as well. We want to commemorate it by listening to Bella Ciao, a song which, symbol of anti-fascism and national resistance, has today become a real hymn against all abuses and violations of rights, a hymn to freedom in all its forms.
On this occasion, Ocarina choose to listen to the beautiful version sung by Milva, a great performer of Italian music, who unfortunately passed away a few days ago; a reinterpretation of the original Bella Ciao, born as a song of the mondine, which the artist performed during the edition of Canzonissima ’71.
Milva has also recorded other popular songs such as La Marsigliese, Addio Lugano bella, Per i morti di Reggio Emilia. The album, titled Canti della Libertà, was released in 1965 for the anniversary of the Liberation from fascism.
With these interpretations, Milva confirmed to be an eclectic artist, singer and stage actress, able to lend her voice to conventional and more commercial songs, but also to make courageous choices such as songs of protest, fight and liberation. Always with a powerful voice and a charismatic and extraordinary physicality.
Milva has also been one of the first singers to bring French songs to Italy; in 1959, she recorded “Je ne regrette rien” and in 1960 “Milord” which became both huge successes.
Her work has also been appreciated and recognized in France with the attribution of the title of “Chevalier de la Légion d’honneur” for her artistic achievements.
We want to remember this extraordinary artist by watching the video of her performance at Canzonissima in 1971.
Here you can buy the song
below the video
