Music really is a powerful thing. It’s a form of expression, a creative outlet, and in the case of Italian singer-songwriter Andrea Di Giovanni, and expression of truth.

Born into a strictly observant Roman Catholic family, Andrea grew up in Rome as the middle child between his older brother and younger sister. His mother, who came from a large Italian family, installed in him the values of sticking together as a family and protecting each other… something Andrea still holds dear.

Combining this with his desire to perform, Andrea comes armed with an album of new music set to be released throughout 2018. His first single ‘Our Own Way’ is a momentous debut, as musically brave as it is innovative, showcasing his distinguished vocal, and contemporary dark-pop sound.

Having already performed at The O2 in Shepherds Bush, Pride Festival in Brighton and the legendary performance series Sofar Sounds, expect big things from the young Italian in 2018.

We sat down with Andrea and talked favourite songs, family and how music has helped him through difficult times.

How has music helped you grow?

I believe that music has always allowed me to look at myself without filters or any form of judgement. It showed me how powerful is to be yourself, taught me how to accept myself and to have a positive attitude in life.

What song do you listen to before you go one stage to perform?

I actually don’t listen to anything. I prefer silence to concentrate!

Back in Rome it was surely different but I was also very young and way too scared to face the truth, I needed fresh air and a new beginning.

Do you think being in London has allowed you to grow as an artist? How does it compare to your hometown?

Being in London has been incredibly helpful and has made it the perfect ground for me to find, discover and build the foundations of who I am right now; London to me represents an epicentre of freedom, art, self-expression and civil rights too.

Nonetheless, I always like to think that it doesn’t matter where you are, the journey of self-discovery is a ‘battle’ you have to fight with yourself first and foremost. Back in Rome it was surely different but I was also very young and way too scared to face the truth, I needed fresh air and a new beginning.

What song puts you in the mood for romance?

Anything Adele to be honest haha

Family is everything to me, their constant support has always made me feel stronger, accepted and loved.

What song reminds you of home?

High by Lighthouse Family, me and my dad used to listen to it on repeat when I was a kid.

Family is being celebrated at this year’s Dublin Pride Parade – why is family important to you in terms of a support system?

Family is everything to me, their constant support has always made me feel stronger, accepted and loved. Nowadays, I see a lot of parents being way more accepting than before, but I still hope for more and more of them to openly support their queer children because they need it more than everything else.

What song makes you want to dance?

Partition by Beyoncé, put the sass on sweetie!

 

I frequently speak about mental health issues on my social media and I always invite my followers to message me at any time if they feel down

You have dealt with bullying and music helped you through that time. Is there any advice you could give to young people going through a similar situation?

I want them to know it gets better, you’ll get out of it eventually and that you are not alone, EVER. I frequently speak about mental health issues on my social media and I always invite my followers to message me at any time if they feel down, depressed or lonely because I’ll be there. I know how hard it is when you feel like everything is crumbling down and not only you have to deal with feeling ‘different’, you get also picked up on it or your weight, height or any of those silly things.

What song always puts a smile on your face?

Feeling Good by Nina Simone

What’s next for you?

There’s so much to come but I don’t want to spoil anything. I want you guys to be surprised!

Our Own Way is out April 20, pre-save it now on Spotify.

Find Andrea on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Spotify and Soundcloud.