The captivating Italian-rooted star, Princess Nostalgia, is an unpredictable force that comes back stronger than ever. The electro-pop artist has recently presented her latest single, “Bocca Lupo,” a song that not only provides a rich and unique sound but also makes us reflect on generational differences and the way women experience freedom today.
Princess Nostalgia is a stunningly talented producer with an international upbringing. She was born in Rome but also recognizes Pittsburgh as her hometown. Her grandmother, Nonna Rosa, played a pivotal role in her upbringing. Through stories shared by her father as he lit a candle every time they entered a church, Princess Nostalgia learned about Nonna Rosa's immense hardship. Orphaned at a young age, Nonna Rosa faced a series of challenges: losing her mother in childbirth; soon later, her father abandoned her, forced migration to Australia to secure work; and an arranged marriage where there were no other aspirations, but to be good in her domestic services. These experiences undoubtedly shaped Nonna Rosa's life, leading to struggles with depression and losing her mind. Over and over again, she tried to escape from her life, sometimes literally, and sometimes trying to end it all once and for all.
The driving percussion, hypnotizing synths, and the incorporation of textures throughout the song like violins, harp-like sounds, or a mandolin, a folkloric instrument from Italy, transform the song into a tumultuous and unpredictable musical journey. The result is a track full of energy that exudes originality and is not afraid of being experimental, but it is destined to reach large audiences. It is difficult not to compare the song with productions of giants in the music industry like Rosalia, Sad Night Dynamite, or 070 Shake.
With “Bocca Lupo” Nostalgia created more than just a groovy and infectious sound. The influence of Nonna Rosa’s story is palpable in the way she lives her femininity, a vision that has shaped the lyrics of the song, as well. She sings “banali tuoi giorni, morti tuoi sogni” (banal are your days, dead are your dreams) as a lament for the way many women had to live in the past. But she adds “la vita non hai mai avuto, vediamo se ci riesco io” (the life you never had, let’s see if I can), determined to defend her rights and the ones of other fellow women with her actions and through her art.
This message is also amplified in the accompanying music video. Directed by Steph Tonneson, and fully recorded in black and white, the video focuses on Princess Nostalgia moving and dancing in total freedom, juxtaposed with scenes of Italian women of her grandmother’s generation who were imposed with limitations.
Princess Nostalgia is not new to creating these captivating unconventional tracks. Her journey as a producer has led her to open for Public Enemy’s Keith Shocklee, and she has also been featured in ColorsXStudios and Wonderland. And it is sure she will continue to amaze everybody with her unique work. Meanwhile, you can keep playing “Bocca Lupo” on repeat, just like I have.
Princess Nostalgia's "Bocca Lupo" is more than just a dance floor anthem. It's a celebration of the progress women have made towards liberation, evident in Princess Nostalgia's own freedom. However, the song's lyrics also act as a call to action. By acknowledging the limitations faced by her grandmother, "Bocca Lupo" reminds us that the fight isn't over.
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