The singer of the band Måneskin is going solo with a completely different tune. Evolution or revolution?
The era where Damiano David belted out provocations, guitar in hand with his three disciples, drenched in leather, sweat and the scent of stale smoke, is over. The frontman of the alternative rock band Måneskin, founded ten years ago in Rome, has taken flight with his solo album Funny Little Fears. Although he became a household name after his group’s victory at Eurovision in 2021 — pushing France’s Barbara Pravi to second place — Damiano sealed his rock star image with rumors of cocaine and a passionate kiss with his guitarist on a Polish stage.
After three albums and just as many tours, the bold singer announced a solo project last year, marking a “pause” from Måneskin. And as with any solo career, came reinvention. Damiano David appears transformed — in lyrics, in style. Out with the provocative lyrics and ripped outfits; the 26-year-old Roman, once praised by the Rolling Stones and Angelina Jolie, now leans into pop and sugary refrains.
Paris Match: After Måneskin’s explosive rise following your Eurovision win in 2021 — why take the risk of going solo?
Damiano David: I don’t feel like I took a risk. Risks don’t scare me. It was more of a necessity. After playing with the band for many years, I felt the need to express things differently — and I couldn’t do that with them.
How long has the idea of a solo career been in your head?
To be honest, I always considered it. I was just waiting for the right time, I wanted to feel ready. When that moment came, I jumped in.
You’ve swapped wild hard rock for romantic pop. How do those two worlds coexist within you?
I’m a mix of both. One part of me is very confident, very self-assured — that’s the version that went on stage with Måneskin. But growing up, I’ve become a more complex, more whole human being. That second side, the more mature one, is just as real.
Yet you said pop lets you be more yourself. Was that not the case with rock?
The biggest difference is that with Måneskin, as the songwriter, I always tried to represent each band member in the lyrics. Sure, the words were mine, but the whole group had to see themselves in the songs. Now that I’m alone, I write about my own experiences, my own feelings. No one can influence the songwriting. I’m more myself.
You worked with many people on this album, including Jason Evigan (Maroon 5, Demi Lovato, Selena Gomez…). Did that reassure you?
Honestly, I didn’t focus much on their credentials. What mattered most to me was the atmosphere — I need to feel good when creating music. Jason is incredibly talented and kind. He didn’t take the easy route of replicating Måneskin’s sound. Instead, he tried to understand who I am as a solo artist — that’s why we worked so well together.
You’re often compared to Harry Styles, in both style and career path. How do you feel about that?
He’s talented! So… why not? I guess it’s normal for people to draw comparisons. But if you really listen to our music, it’s quite different.
How did your collaboration with Suki Waterhouse on “The Bruise” come about?
I sent her the song directly. I’d written it as a duet and needed a voice that was beautiful, soft, ethereal. Suki has all of that. Her music feels close to the world I created around this track. I was thrilled when she said she loved it and wanted to join.
What did you feel the first time you were in the studio alone — without the other three members?
At first, it was really hard. I had to open up to new people, share deeply personal things. That was by far the toughest part. Once I got through it, we immediately started composing. Quickly, the rhythms, sounds, and arrangements started sounding right. That’s when I knew I’d made the right choices.
You’ve often been called the “bad boy of rock” with your punk looks and wild vibe. Is this album proof that your rebellious phase is over?
(He laughs) I hope so! This album reflects what I’m going through in life. But who knows? Maybe I’ll go through another rebellious phase!
You’ve confirmed the album is autobiographical and even therapeutic. Lyrically, it focuses a lot on love…
Because love is the most important thing to me. There’s a trend on TikTok now that reminds us of life’s purpose — through couple videos, people eating ice cream, simple things. I find that message beautiful and uplifting. We must not lose sight of the essential: feeling good with ourselves, and with the people who love us. That’s all that matters.
Speaking of love — you’re in a relationship with actress Dove Cameron. Is it easier to manage because she’s also a public figure?
I can’t deny it helps — we understand each other’s work. But it can also be difficult when things that are totally normal in our relationship become topics for public gossip. In those moments, we just stay off social media — and the problem disappears. It’s that simple.
She called you a 1950s gentleman. Is that accurate?
(He laughs) I don’t know! She probably has a clearer view than I do. Honestly, I’m just trying to be a good partner.
You once said you regret not choosing a stage name. What don’t you like about “Damiano David”?
Nothing, really. I just think having a stage name makes it easier to separate your public persona from your real self. That separation can be really healthy. I would have liked that — but it’s too late now.
If you had picked one, what would it have been?
Something Italian? (He jokes) No idea, honestly.
You’re only 26, but some compare you to an old Italian rocker singing love songs. What’s next in ten years?
From former Italian singer to… professional footballer?
You’re very comfortable showing your body — on social media and on stage. Have you always been this at ease?
We all have bodies — there’s no reason to hide them. Nudity — and everything around it — is a natural part of life. I can’t imagine someone going through life without ever being naked.
Your attitude caught the attention of artistic director Glenn Martens, who got you to collaborate with Diesel. Has fashion ever tempted you as a career?
It’s more like fashion was attracted to me. (He laughs) I don’t have the same passion for it as I do for music. I enjoy using it as a form of expression, to feel good, to highlight myself. But I’m not like those who obsess over fashion shows and designers. Still, when I get the chance to do something creative, like with Glenn, I always give 100%.
You’ve said Måneskin will return one day. Any news?
Nothing planned yet. I’ve got a world tour ahead — it’d be crazy to plan something now. After that, I’ll probably need some rest. But no worries — we celebrated the album release together just three days ago. We’re still super close. Talking about what’s next will never be an issue. (He smiles)
Are you nervous about your solo tour?
I have to admit, touring stresses me out in general. For three months, you live out of a suitcase, in a different time zone… It’s impossible to have a normal life on tour. I struggled with that.
Funny Little Fears — the review: Perfectly built for success
With Funny Little Fears, Damiano David smooths out his rock edges with 14 pop-infused tracks. Written and composed by him alongside collaborators like Jason Evigan (songwriter for Madonna, Sabrina Carpenter…) and Amy Allen (the pen behind hits for Harry Styles, Justin Bieber, and Selena Gomez), this largely autobiographical debut album places the Italian singer firmly in the pop spotlight. The tracks — most under four minutes — are radio-ready and check every box for chart-topping success. On The Bruise, Damiano brings in Suki Waterhouse, the perfect voice to embody the romantic soul of an album built around love.
