
Pippo Starnazza
Luigi Redaelli, known by the stage name Pippo Starnazza (Milan, 1909 – New York, 1952), was an Italian singer, saxophonist, clarinetist, and actor. A prominent figure in Italian-style swing from the late 1930s through the following decade, he was distinguished by a unique style that fused jazz virtuosity with an eccentric vocal performance and surreal, grotesque lyrics. His career was marked by memorable recording successes, including hits such as "Il gatto in cantina," "Sette e venti," and "Quando la radio," performed with his orchestra. Parallel to his musical career, he also pursued a film career, appearing in several movies of the era. For his originality and energetic performances, Pippo Starnazza is recognized today as an innovator and a forerunner of later musical trends, in some ways anticipating the style of the future "shouters" and the forcefulness of rock and roll.
