Roberto Murolo

The Profile

Italian singer and guitarist from Naples (born 1912), son of poet and lyricist Ernesto Murolo. After touring Europe with the Quartetto MIDA and building fame in postwar venues (notably Capri), he became a leading interpreter of the Neapolitan song. He curated the 12‑LP Napoletana anthology, was relaunched to the wider public by Renzo Arbore in the 1980s–90s, collaborated with Fabrizio De André on Don Raffaè, and recorded into his nineties, including Ho sognato di cantare.

Born in Naples in 1912; died in 2003. Renowned for intimate voice-and-guitar interpretations and the multi‑volume Napoletana anthology. Collaborated with Mia Martini ("Cu' mme!"), Fabrizio De André ("Don Raffaè"), Pino Daniele, and others; reintroduced to mass audiences by Renzo Arbore.

Reviewers celebrate Roberto Murolo as a refined, sincere custodian of Neapolitan song, prized for intimate voice-and-guitar readings and impeccable style. His monumental Napoletana anthology and classic repertoire are highlighted, along with key collaborations (Mia Martini, Fabrizio De André, Renzo Arbore). Late-career albums like Ho sognato di cantare show dignified continuity. Overall tone: warm admiration and strong recommendations.