Lucio Dalla Foundation Celebrates 40th Anniversary of “Caruso” with FLD2026 Program

The Lucio Dalla Foundation is launching FLD2026, “e ricomincia il canto” (and the song begins again), a program of initiatives commemorating the artist Lucio Dalla in 2026. This year marks the 40th anniversary of his iconic song, “Caruso.” The program is a collaboration with the Comune di Bologna and receives support from Banca di Bologna.

“e ricomincia il canto” – A Tribute to Lucio Dalla

The FLD2026 program aims to honor the legacy of Lucio Dalla, whose “canto” – his genius and spirit – continues to inspire. The initiative was presented alongside its partners and is financially supported by Banca di Bologna, with collaborative promotion from the Comune di Bologna. The title of the program, “e ricomincia il canto,” is taken directly from a verse within “Caruso.”

“Caruso” – A Timeless Masterpiece

“Caruso” was originally featured on the live album “DallAmeriCaruso,” recorded in March 1986 at the Village Gate in Recent York City with Stadio. Dalla himself reportedly wrote the song in just ten minutes, though he later questioned the idea of pure chance in its creation, suggesting that destiny plays a role in the life of a song, just as it does in the life of a man. The song is recognized as one of the most famous Italian songs worldwide.

CIAO – Rassegna Lucio Dalla Awards

As part of the celebrations, the “CIAO – Rassegna Lucio Dalla, per le forme innovative di musica e creatività” (CIAO – Lucio Dalla Review, for innovative forms of music and creativity) has announced its 2026 award recipients. Lucio Corsi received the SIAE Award for his personal, free, and authentic vision of songwriting, characterized by original writing and a recognizable, poetic style. Ricky Portera was awarded the Nuovo IMAIE Award for his exceptional artistic contribution to Italian music and his long-standing collaboration with Lucio Dalla, particularly as a guitarist.

Expanded Contest for Emerging Artists

The 2026 contest has expanded to include 30 artists and 15 producers, up from 10 of each in previous years. Elisa Benetti and Benvenuti were selected as the winners in the Artist and Producer categories, respectively, by a jury comprised of Massimo Bonelli, Daniele Caracchi, Gabriele Fazio, Valerio Baroncini, Nicola Roda, and Marta Blumi Tripodi. The “Ballerino Dalla” statuette, created by artist Mauro Balletti, is inspired by Dalla’s song “Balla balla ballerino” and represents the challenges and difficulties artists face in pursuing their unique vision.

Partners and Media Coverage

Eufonica participated in the press conference presenting the FLD2026 program. QN Quotidiano Nazionale and Il Resto del Carlino are Media Partners for the FLD2026 program and will also be producers of one of the initiatives.