Paolo Belli

Biography
by Drago Bonacich
Italian singer/songwriter Paolo Belli got involved in music while taking piano lessons as a child, later improving his skills at Reggio Emilia's Conservatory. In 1984, the musician formed a band called Ladri Di Biciclette, who participated in San Remo's festival in 1989 with a self-titled song and became the opening act for Vasco Rossi that same year. While its song "Dr. Jazz & Mr. Funk" was climbing on local charts, Ladri Di Biciclette consolidated its popularity after coming in first place at Festivalbar. They were voted Best New Band of the Year and soon had the opportunity to release their first album. In 1991, Paolo Belli returned to San Remo with "Sbatti Ben Su Del Bebop," recording Ladri Di Biciclette' second album as well. Two years later, the artist released his first solo record, followed by 1994's Solo. He was awarded for "M'Hanno Lasciato Qui"'s video. In 1998, Paolo Belli performed along with Dan Aykroyd at Rome's Big Mama Club, while the American actor was promoting Blues Brothers 2000. After issuing 1999's A Me Mi Piace Lo Swing, the Italian pop singer released Belli Dentro in the year 2000.