Mogol Honored at Sanremo: A Night of Applause and Controversy
At the recent Sanremo Music Festival, the legendary Italian lyricist Giulio Rapetti Mogol was celebrated with a lifetime achievement award, just months before his 90th birthday. As Carlo Conti introduced him on the stage of the Ariston, the audience rose to their feet, offering a standing ovation that moved the veteran songwriter. “Such a warm welcome moved me,” Mogol said, reflecting on a career that boasts 1,776 registered songs with SIAE and an astonishing 523 million records sold worldwide. The moment was a testament to his enduring influence on Italian music, with the entire Ariston honoring a man whose words have shaped the soundtrack of the nation.
However, the tribute was not without its critics. The decision to revive the 2016 show “Viva Mogol” as part of the celebration drew mixed reactions. While the songs and the performances by great interpreters were applauded, some felt that the choice to replay an old format was uninspired. “Applausi per le canzoni e i grandi interpreti, ma la scelta di riproporre lo show Viva Mogol del 2016 non convince tutti,” noted Libero Magazine. This sentiment reflects a broader debate about how to honor legends without relying on past productions, especially when the audience craves fresh tributes.
Beyond the artistic controversy, the event also sparked political and union backlash. The USB union and opposition politicians criticized the use of the craft, stating, “This is extremely serious, the craft was used for reasons outside its institutional remit.” While the exact nature of this criticism remains unclear, it underscores the tension between cultural celebrations and institutional responsibilities. The controversy, however, did not overshadow the significance of the award for Italy. As one observer hoped, “I hope so, because it would be an important recognition for our country, also from an economic standpoint; it would bring significant benefits.” This highlights the potential economic and cultural value of honoring such a monumental figure.
In the end, the night was a blend of nostalgia, admiration, and debate. Mogol’s legacy is undeniable, and the recognition at Sanremo serves as a reminder of his monumental contributions. Yet, the mixed reactions to the show’s format and the political undert
Shimanta Das 
