Dirotta su Cuba

The Profile

Dirotta su Cuba are a Florentine group formed in 1989, known for a polished blend of funk, acid jazz and Italian pop. Fronted by singer Simona Bencini alongside bassist Stefano De Donato and keyboardist Rossano Gentile, they broke through in the mid-1990s with radio staples and appeared at Sanremo 1997 with “È andata così.”

Italian funk/acid-jazz band from Florence formed in 1989; core members include Simona Bencini (vocals), Stefano De Donato (bass) and Rossano Gentile (keyboards); notable for hits like “Gelosia” and for competing at Sanremo 1997 with “È andata così.”

Two reviews revisit Dirotta su Cuba’s 1997 Sanremo-era compilation “È andata così”. Both note the band’s funky, jazz-tinged pop with fresh radio appeal but limited long-term novelty. Highlights praised include Gelosia, Ridere, Jesahel, and Dove Sei?. The group’s roots in Florence and the role of singer Simona Bencini are referenced, alongside broader ‘90s funk/acid-jazz currents.