An intimate tribute concert dedicated to singer-songwriter Fabrizio De André in Sardinia erupted into public debate after a spectator interrupted the performance to protest the presence of Italian Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini, according to reports from ANSA. The incident occurred during the Time Jazz festival at L’Agnata, a residence in Tempio Pausania currently managed as a resort by Dori Ghezzi. As singer-songwriter Diodato performed part of the annual musical tribute initiated by artistic director Paolo Fresu, a female member of the audience stood up to voice her objections against Salvini, who was seated beside Ghezzi.
The protesting audience member directly addressed the gathering before walking out. “You are wonderful, but it is not possible that a person who has nothing to do with De André’s songs is present here. I feel offended and I cannot continue to stay here,” the spectator stated, according to Gazzetta di Parma. Her remarks drew a mix of audible boos and support from sections of the crowd, capturing widespread media attention across Italy as video footage circulated online.
The confrontation drew swift responses from both the stage and the family of the late singer-songwriter. Dori Ghezzi approached the microphone to address the crowd directly, defending the principle of open dialogue despite her own political leanings. “I disagree. I think differently, I have always been on the left. But it is right to create a dialogue. Music must unite,” Ghezzi told the audience, earning warm applause that included Salvini, as reported by ANSA.
Diodato and Organizers Respond to L’Agnata Protest
The performing artist on stage also addressed the sudden tension. Diodato reflected on his own political distance from the politician while explaining his decision to continue the concert. “How many times have I defined myself light years away from certain thoughts and certain political attitudes. I do not think it is right to stop playing, but I also respect those who decide to leave,” Diodato said, as detailed by Gazzetta di Parma. The singer added that he was merely a guest at the estate and hoped the music might help illuminate the broader political class.
The Time Jazz festival brings invited musicians each year to L’Agnata in Gallura to honor Fabrizio De André. The location carries deep emotional resonance for fans and family, having served as the songwriter’s residence.
Alice De André Criticizes Salvini’s Presence on Social Media
The controversy expanded beyond the Sardinian countryside when Alice De André, the granddaughter of the late artist and daughter of Cristiano De André, posted sharp remarks on social media regarding the incident. She defended the protesting spectator and questioned the politician’s interpretation of her grandfather’s work, according to coverage by ANSA.
“I don’t know exactly what Salvini managed to understand from my grandfather’s texts. Maybe the music? Maybe the la la la? Because on the texts we evidently had some comprehension problem,” Alice De André wrote online, describing the ideological gap between her grandfather’s values and those of the deputy prime minister as diametrically opposed. She concluded her statement by asserting that her grandfather, facing that scene, would have stopped the concert and probably asked Salvini what the hell he was doing there, according to the same reports.
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