Måneskin: Did You Know?
Måneskin: Fun Facts & Untold Stories About the Italian Rock Sensation
Måneskin, the Italian rock band that has taken the world by storm, is known for their bold style, electrifying performances, and unapologetic attitude. After winning the Eurovision Song Contest in 2021 with their hit song “Zitti e buoni,” Måneskin quickly rose to international fame. But behind their high-energy rock anthems and fearless image, there’s a fascinating story full of quirky facts and lesser-known tales that reveal how this band came to dominate the global music scene.
Here’s a deep dive into some fun, little-known facts and the backstory of Måneskin that will make you love them even more!
1. It All Started on the Streets of Rome
Before Måneskin was selling out arenas and topping charts worldwide, they were busking on the streets of Rome. The band members—Damiano David (vocals), Victoria De Angelis (bass), Thomas Raggi (guitar), and Ethan Torchio (drums)—started out by playing covers in Rome’s famous shopping districts. They would set up on the street, performing for passersby and collecting change. These early street performances were a formative time for the band, helping them refine their sound and develop their confident stage presence.
Fun Fact: The band actually won their first-ever competition, not on a grand stage, but in a local talent contest where they performed in front of a small audience. Their busking days also taught them how to engage with crowds—something that would come in handy when performing on much bigger stages later on.
2. What’s in a Name? The Story Behind “Måneskin”
Ever wonder where the band’s unique name comes from? It turns out, the word “Måneskin” means “moonlight” in Danish. Bassist Victoria De Angelis, who is half Danish, suggested the name while the band was brainstorming. Interestingly, the name was chosen randomly and has no deeper meaning to the band’s music, but it certainly helped them stand out!
Fun Fact: The band chose the name “Måneskin” as part of an impromptu decision when they needed to register for a local music competition in Italy. The Danish word may have been picked without much thought, but it has since become iconic, recognized by fans all over the world.
3. Damiano Was Almost a Flight Attendant
Frontman Damiano David’s journey to rock stardom could have taken a very different path—he once considered becoming a flight attendant. Before Måneskin took off, Damiano had actually begun studying to become a flight attendant. However, his passion for music and performing quickly won out, and the rest is history.
Fun Fact: Damiano was rejected during his first audition for Måneskin because the other members thought he was too “pop” and didn’t quite fit the rock image they had in mind. Fortunately, they gave him a second chance after seeing his performance style evolve.
4. Their Bold Fashion Choices Are No Accident
One of Måneskin’s most distinctive traits is their fearless approach to fashion. From glittery jumpsuits to gender-fluid outfits, the band’s look is as rebellious as their sound. Victoria and Damiano have become style icons for their bold clothing choices, often mixing vintage glam rock styles with modern androgyny. But these fashion statements are not just about aesthetics—they are part of the band’s broader message of self-expression, freedom, and breaking down stereotypes.
Fun Fact: The band’s striking fashion is inspired by iconic artists like David Bowie, Freddie Mercury, and Mick Jagger, all of whom pushed the boundaries of gender norms and rock star fashion. Måneskin has carried on this tradition, creating their own modern take on glam and androgynous rock style.
5. Måneskin’s Road to Eurovision Glory Was Anything but Smooth
While Måneskin’s Eurovision win in 2021 was a major turning point in their career, their journey to the competition was far from easy. The band had to overcome intense competition in Italy’s prestigious Sanremo Music Festival just to qualify for Eurovision. Måneskin wasn’t seen as a frontrunner, with many critics doubting their chances in a contest typically dominated by ballads and pop acts.
However, their fierce performance of “Zitti e buoni” won over the judges and audience alike, leading them to victory in both Sanremo and Eurovision. Their win was a breath of fresh air for Eurovision, as they were one of the few rock bands to ever win the competition.
Fun Fact: After winning Eurovision, Måneskin became the first Italian rock band to top global charts and go viral on social media platforms like TikTok. Their Eurovision performance of “Zitti e buoni” amassed millions of views, turning the band into international sensations almost overnight.
6. Ethan Torchio: The “Mysterious” Drummer
Drummer Ethan Torchio is known for his quiet demeanor compared to his more outspoken bandmates, earning him the nickname “the mysterious one.” Despite his reserved personality, Ethan’s drumming is the backbone of Måneskin’s hard-hitting sound. His long hair and calm, almost meditative presence on stage add to his mystique, making him a fan favorite.
Fun Fact: Ethan joined the band in an unusual way. When Måneskin was looking for a drummer, they posted an ad online. Ethan responded, and after just one audition, the band knew he was the perfect fit. His unique style and quiet strength perfectly balanced the band’s high-energy performances.
7. TikTok Helped Fuel Their Global Fame
While Måneskin already had a dedicated following in Europe, their music reached an entirely new audience thanks to TikTok. Their cover of “Beggin’,” originally by The Four Seasons, went viral on the platform, leading to millions of streams on Spotify and YouTube. The band quickly capitalized on this newfound fame, and their music began charting internationally.
Fun Fact: “Beggin’” became one of the most popular songs on TikTok in 2021, with countless users creating videos using the track. Måneskin’s success on the app helped introduce them to a younger, global audience, turning them into one of the most-streamed rock bands of the year.
Måneskin’s Unstoppable Rise
From busking on the streets of Rome to taking the global stage by storm, Måneskin’s journey is filled with quirky stories, bold moves, and relentless passion. Their fearless approach to music and fashion, combined with their raw talent and hard work, has made them one of the most exciting rock bands of this generation. For fans and fellow musicians alike, Måneskin’s career is a reminder that authenticity, perseverance, and a bit of rock ‘n’ roll rebellion can take you far.
Måneskin has many powerful and inspiring lyrics, but one of their most iconic lines comes from their song "Zitti e Buoni" (which won Eurovision 2021):
"Siamo fuori di testa, ma diversi da loro"
This translates to:
"We’re out of our minds, but different from them."
This line resonates with themes of rebellion, individuality, and staying true to oneself in a world that often pressures people to conform. It has become a powerful motto for many of their fans, representing self-expression, confidence, and embracing one's uniqueness.