Chitarra Romana

The song 'Funiculì, Funiculà' is not originally by Luciano Pavarotti, but it is one of the many classic pieces that the renowned Italian tenor performed during his illustrious career. The song itself is a famous Neapolitan song written in 1880 by Luigi Denza to commemorate the opening of the first funicular cable car on Mount Vesuvius. The lyrics, while seemingly simple, are filled with joy and the spirit of Italian culture.

The repeated phrase 'Vamos, vamos, pro topo vamos, já!' which translates to 'Let's go, let's go, to the top we go, now!' captures the excitement and enthusiasm of ascending the mountain. The funicular, a cable-railway system, is a metaphor for the journey of love—uplifting and direct. The song's narrator invites his beloved Nannina to join him in this joyful ascent, symbolizing a proposal of marriage and a life spent together. The lyrics 'O coração canta sempre um refrão: casemos-nos, oh bela' which means 'The heart always sings a refrain: let's get married, oh beautiful' make this intention clear.

Pavarotti's rendition of 'Funiculì, Funiculà' is filled with his signature vibrancy and operatic flair. His powerful voice brings a sense of grandeur to the playful tune, making it a celebration of love and life. The song, while rooted in the specific cultural context of 19th-century Italy, has a universal appeal that resonates with audiences around the world, showcasing the timeless nature of love and the human desire for companionship and joy.