IN CONVERSATION WITH MATTEO BOCELLI

interview by JANA LETONJA

Matteo Bocelli, the rising star blending his Italian classical heritage with modern pop elegance, is the son of the legendary Andrea Bocelli. His sophomore album ‘Falling in Love’ is out now. The album is steeped in romance and the spirit of la dolce vita and it marks a new chapter in Matteo’s artistry. With his first single ‘To Get To Love You’, which was released this June, and a world tour kicking off this fall, Matteo is poised to share his most personal and timeless work yet.

jacket BALENCIAGA 
top FRAME
trousers SIMKHAI
shoes GH BASS

Your upcoming album ‘Falling in Love’ was recorded in Tuscany. How did being back home influence the sound and emotion of the album?

Recording in Tuscany made the whole process feel very natural and authentic. Being at home really allowed me to be myself. Everyone was able to understand my essence and who I am everyday. We spent weeks at my home, living together, sharing meals, and being connected. For me, that human side is so important, because behind any form of art there has to be an exchange of ideas, opinions, and emotions.

What can we expect from the album?

‘Falling in Love’ is a journey through different shades of love. From its joy and excitement, to its vulnerability and honesty. It’s romantic, but also very personal. You will hear the influences from my Italian roots and from classical music, but also modern pop. My biggest wish is that listeners feel the sincerity behind every song and lyric.

turtleneck LUIGI
suit STYLIST’S OWN
shoes GH BASS

You’ve described this project as a new era for you. What sets it apart from your debut?

My first album was about introducing myself to the world and finding my voice as an artist. With this album, I feel more mature, more confident in who I am and what I want to say. It’s not just about experimenting anymore, it’s about telling my story in the most honest way possible. I think this project is a true reflection of who I am today.

Working with Amy Wadge, who’s written for Ed Sheeran and Alicia Keys, must have been inspiring. What was that creative process like?
Amy is such an incredible talent and has such a gift for writing songs that feel both intimate and relatable. I have worked with her for many years and we always create some of my favorite songs together. Working with her is like having a conversation with a friend. Always very open, very honest. She really encouraged me to dig deep and express myself without overthinking. That freedom made the songs we created together feel very genuine.

full look FRAME

How do you balance your classical heritage with modern pop sensibilities in your music?
I think the best way is to let them co-exist together naturally. I grew up surrounded by classical music, so that’s a part of me. At the same time, I’ve always been drawn to pop and contemporary sounds because I also grew up listening to all of the modern artists. Blending the two allows me to create something that feels authentic to my background, but also fresh.

Having a legendary father like Andrea Bocelli is inspiring, but also comes with expectations. How have you forged your own identity as an artist?
I’m incredibly proud to be my father’s son, and I’ve learned so much from him. But, at the same time, I know I have to follow my own path. For me, it’s about being honest in my music, writing from my own experiences, and finding my own voice. I think that’s the best way to honor my family while still standing on my own.

jacket BALENCIAGA 
top FRAME
trousers SIMKHAI
shoes GH BASS

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned from watching your father’s legendary career?
The most important lesson is humility. My father has achieved so much, yet he remains one of the most grounded and kind people I know. He’s taught me that success means nothing if you lose your humanity. That’s something I carry with me every day, both in music and in life.

This Fall, your world tour kicks off. How are you preparing for these shows, and what are you most excited about the tour?
I try to stay disciplined with a simple diet, rest, and take care of my voice. But more than anything, I’m excited to connect with the audiences around the world. This will be the first time performing my new songs live and I’m so excited to see the audiences’ reactions to them. 

full look GHIAIA

You’re also the face of GUESS Men’s Fragrance. How would you describe your relationship with fashion, and your style?
Fashion, for me, is another form of expression. Just like music, it’s about telling a story or showing a part of yourself without words. I like to keep my style classic and comfortable. Working with GUESS is always an amazing experience.

full look BRIONI

How would you describe la dolce vita in your own words?
When people hear la dolce vita, they often imagine something super elegant, but for me, it’s much simpler. It’s gathering around a table with friends, eating vegetables from my garden, and experiencing the everyday moments that make you feel connected to each other and grateful. This album carries a lot of that spirit.

What’s one thing fans might be surprised to learn about you?
I love to cook. Right now, I'm working on mastering pasta al pomodoro. When we were recording the album in Tuscany, I often cooked for the team. It’s another way of sharing love and creating connections.

TEAM CREDITS:

talent MATTEO BOCELLI
photography PETROS KOUIOURIS
styling ZOE GOFMAN
grooming NETTY JORDAN at Forward Artists
styling assistant LINDSEY TROUNSON
lighting assistant TEAGE SHOUP
editor TIMOTEJ LETONJA
editorial director and interview JANA LETONJA
cover design ARTHUR ROELOFFZEN