Maneskin

The four member band Mäneskin is the embodiment of a badass rock band. Victoria De Angelis (bass), Ethan Torchio (drums), Thomas Raggi (guitar) and Damiano David (vocals) are often spotted in their signature heavy black eyeliner, leather and studs with fishnets. The Italian band’s name comes from the Danish word “moon” in honor of Angelis’s heritage. Their rise to fame reads like a stereotypical modern-day-music story with them placing second on Italy’s X Factor, then going on to win the Sanremo Music Festival which would send them to represent and win Eurovision 2021. Before the late-night shows, the band was a group of 15 year olds trying to create a platform for their music in Rome. Given the platinum status of their song “Beggin,” it’s safe they have exceeded that goal. 

Their songs range from angsty Italian lyrics to ballads like “Le parole lontane,” which deviates from their usual guitar riffs, David’s gravelly voice and the rock core of many of Mäneskin’s EPs. 

Despite the language barrier, they are masters of emotion, with instrumentals that will have you dancing along. This is just what happened with their 2017 song “Beggin,” which reached TikTok fame along with “I Wanna Be Your Slave,” and held their core sound of strong guitar, drum and bass backs with David’s effortless rock swagger. 

From TikTok thirst traps to kick-ass performances, Mäneskin is “it.” They’re sexy (especially lead singer David, who performs like Rolling Stones crafted him in the womb.) They’re European and they have songs with layers that are reminiscent of Queen, minus Bohemian Rhapsody. Leave it to a group of Italians dripping with swagger and musical talent to be able to bring rock back to the U.S. charts.