Zucchero - Adelmo Fornaciari

Adelmo Fornaciari (1955), better known worldwide as Zucchero, is one of the most beloved and influential Italian musicians on the international scene - and his connection to Reggio Emilia is strong, authentic and still very much alive in the city’s culture and identity.

Born September 25, 1955 in Roncocesi, a hamlet in the Reggio Emilia countryside, Adelmo grew up amidst the simple, unspoilt atmosphere of his homeland.
It was here that he was given the nickname ‘Zucchero’ by a primary school teacher, a name that would stay with him throughout his career and become a symbol of his music and personality.

From an early age, he had a passion for music, playing in bands across Romagna and taking his first steps into the world of rhythm & blues and soul.
After beginning his university studies, he left the veterinary faculty to devote himself entirely to music.

In 1985, he founded Zucchero & The Randy Jackson Band and participated in the Sanremo Festival with “Donne”, his first major hit.
This marked the start of an extraordinary career that saw him collaborate with leading international artists, taking his blues and soul music beyond Italy’s borders.

In October 2023, Reggio Emilia awarded him honorary citizenship in the historic Sala del Tricolore (Tricolour Flag Hall).
On that occasion, Zucchero spoke movingly of his deep connection to his homeland: even though he lived elsewhere for many years, he feels ‘at home’ only when he returns to the streets of Roncocesi and Reggio Emilia, where his roots and childhood memories lie.

His connection to the region is also evident in the lyrics of his songs, which often echo images and feelings linked to local culture and tradition.
Zucchero is regarded not only as a great Italian artist, but also as a global ambassador for Reggio Emilia, capable of conveying through his music the soul of a land characterized by hard work, passion and authenticity.

Find out more at:
Zucchero - official website