Emma Marrone is a powerhouse Italian singer, songwriter, and actress who has captivated audiences across Europe with her raspy, soulful voice and fearless authenticity. She is also known as real brown. Born Emmanuela Marrone on May 25, 1984, in Florence, Italy, Emma has become one of the most successful and respected artists in contemporary Italian music.
From winning the prestigious Sanremo Music Festival to representing Italy at Eurovision, her journey from a struggling band member to a multi-platinum solo artist is nothing short of inspirational. With over 2 million records sold, seven studio albums, and countless awards, Emma Marrone continues to break barriers while staying true to her pop-rock roots.
Table of Contents
Quick Bio, Wiki
| Personal Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Emmanuela Marrone |
| Stage Name | Emma |
| Date of Birth | May 25, 1984 |
| Age | 41 years (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | Florence, Tuscany, Italy |
| Hometown | Aradeo, Lecce, Puglia, Italy |
| Current Residence | Frascati, Rome, Italy |
| Nationality | Italian |
| Zodiac Sign | Gemini |
| Height | 5’7″ (170 cm) |
| Profession | Singer, Songwriter, Actress, TV Personality |
| Genres | Pop, Rock, Pop-Rock, Alternative Rock |
| Instruments | Vocals, Guitar |
| Years Active | 2003 – Present (21 years) |
| Record Labels | Universal Music Italia |
| Father | Rosario Marrone (Guitarist) |
| Mother | Maria Marrone |
| Education | Liceo Classico (Classical High School) |
| Famous For | Winning Amici di Maria De Filippi (2010), Sanremo Music Festival Winner (2012), Eurovision 2014 Representative |
| Studio Albums | 7 (A me piace così, Sarò libera, Schiena, Adesso, Essere qui, Fortuna, Souvenir) |
| Awards | Sanremo Winner, MTV Italian Music Awards (3×), Wind Music Awards, Italian Television Direction Awards (2×) |
| Total Records Sold | Over 2 Million |
| Chart-Topping Albums | 4 #1 Albums on Italian Albums Chart |
| Social Causes | Cancer Awareness Advocate, Women’s Rights Activist, Anti-Nuclear Advocate |
| Health Journey | Cancer Survivor (2009, 2019) |
| Notable Collaborations | Modà, Vasco Rossi, Alessandra Amoroso, Álvaro Soler, Loredana Bertè, Fabri Fibra |
| TV Work | X Factor Italy Judge, Amici Artistic Director, Sanremo Festival Co-Host (2015) |
| Acting Credits | Gli anni più belli (2020), A casa tutti bene (2021-2022), Il ritorno |
| Eurovision | Represented Italy in 2014 with “La mia città” (21st place) |
| Official Website | emmamarrone.net |
| Social Media | Instagram: @real_brown, Twitter: @MarroneEmma |

Early Life: Where It All Began
Childhood in Florence and Aradeo
Emma Marrone’s story begins in the artistic city of Florence, Tuscany, where she was born to parents Rosario and Maria Marrone. Her parents originally hailed from Aradeo, a small town in the province of Lecce in Italy’s southern Puglia region. When Emma was just four years old, her family made the decision to move back to their roots in Aradeo, where she would spend most of her formative years.
Growing up in Aradeo proved pivotal for Emma’s musical development. The town’s rich cultural heritage and tight-knit community provided the perfect environment for a young artist to flourish.
A Musical Family Legacy
Music was literally in Emma’s blood. Her father, Rosario Marrone, was a guitarist in several local bands, including “Karadreon” (formed when Emma was about 10) and “H2O.” Watching her father perform sparked something deep within young Emma. By age nine, she was already accompanying her father’s band, getting her first taste of live performance.
This early exposure to music wasn’t just about entertainment—it was about passion, dedication, and the transformative power of artistic expression. Emma’s father became her first music teacher, mentor, and biggest supporter, encouraging her to study music theory and develop her natural vocal talents.
Education and Early Ambitions
Despite her growing passion for music, Emma remained committed to her education. She graduated from liceo classico (classical high school), where she wrote her thesis on music—a clear indication of where her heart truly lay. However, the path to musical stardom wasn’t immediate. Like many aspiring artists, Emma worked various jobs to support herself, including three years as a saleswoman in a warehouse. These experiences taught her resilience and work ethic that would later prove invaluable in the competitive music industry.
The Struggling Artist Years: 2003-2009
Lucky Star: First Taste of Success
Emma’s professional musical career launched in 2003 when she participated in the second Italian edition of Popstars (later renamed Superstar Tour). Her talent was undeniable, and she won the competition alongside Laura Pisu and Colomba Pane. The trio formed a group called Lucky Star and signed with Universal Music.
Their debut single “Stile” became a hit in 2003, giving Emma her first taste of commercial success. In 2006, Lucky Star recorded the soundtrack for the popular cartoon W.I.T.C.H. and released a dance-pop album called “LS3.” However, despite these achievements, creative differences led to the band’s breakup, leaving Emma at a crossroads.
M.J.U.R.: The Alternative Rock Phase
Refusing to give up, Emma formed another band in 2007 called M.J.U.R. (Mad Jesters Until Rave). This marked a significant artistic shift—she was now exploring alternative rock, a genre that allowed her to express her edgier, more authentic musical voice. The group won a contract with Dracma Records and released their self-titled album “Mjur” in January 2008, featuring ten original tracks written and composed by the band members.
While M.J.U.R. showcased Emma’s songwriting abilities and musical versatility, commercial success remained elusive. The album received modest attention but didn’t break through to mainstream audiences.
Keeping the Dream Alive: Anonimo Soul and H2O
Between 2007 and 2009, Emma continued performing with multiple bands, including Anonimo Soul (a soul and funk group with her uncle Emidio Marrone) and her father’s band H2O. These were difficult years filled with small venues, modest paychecks, and the constant question every struggling artist faces: “Should I give up?”
But Emma’s determination never wavered. She kept performing, kept writing, and kept believing that her breakthrough was just around the corner.
The Breakthrough: Amici di Maria De Filippi (2009-2010)
Winning the Talent Show That Changed Everything
In 2009, Emma made a decision that would alter the trajectory of her entire career. She auditioned for “Amici di Maria De Filippi,” one of Italy’s most prestigious and popular talent shows on Canale 5. Unlike her previous band experiences, this time Emma was competing as a solo artist, and the entire nation was watching.
Throughout the competition, Emma’s powerful voice, authentic personality, and emotional performances captivated both judges and audiences. On March 29, 2010, she was crowned the winner of the ninth season, securing her place in Italian pop culture history.
The victory came with a recording contract from Universal Music—but this time, Emma was signing as a solo artist, fully in control of her artistic direction.
“Oltre”: The Album That Launched a Superstar
In March 2010, Emma released her debut EP “Oltre” through Universal Music. The timing couldn’t have been better—she had momentum from the talent show victory, a dedicated fanbase, and a collection of songs that showcased her unique vocal style.
The lead single “Calore” was an instant hit, shooting to number one on the Italian Singles Chart where it remained for two weeks. The song earned platinum certification, selling over 120,000 copies. The EP “Oltre” itself dominated the Italian Albums Chart, sitting at number one for two weeks and eventually earning triple platinum status.
“Oltre” became the second best-selling album of 2010 in Italy, an extraordinary achievement for a debut release. Emma had finally broken through, and there was no looking back.
First Tours and Recognition
In June 2010, Emma embarked on her first summer tour, the “Ahi ce sta passu tour” (a Salentino dialect phrase meaning “Hey, what’s happening”), traveling throughout Italy with her band. She also participated in the Amici Tour 2010 with fellow contestants from the talent show.
The recognition came quickly. At the 2010 Venice Music Awards, Emma received the Premio Miglior Voce Femminile (Best Female Vocalist of the Year), validating her as a serious artist beyond the talent show context.

Rising Star: 2011-2012
“A me piace così” and Continued Success
Building on her breakthrough, Emma released her first full-length studio album “A me piace così” in October 2010. The album debuted at number two on the Italian Singles Chart and would eventually earn double platinum certification, selling over 120,000 units.
The album spawned multiple hit singles including “Con le nuvole,” “Cullami,” and “L’Amore Che Ho” (written by Italian rapper Neffa). A special edition even featured a duet with British singer Craig David on “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay.”
Sanremo Music Festival: The Pinnacle of Italian Music
In February 2011, Emma participated in the legendary Sanremo Music Festival—the most prestigious music competition in Italy—performing “Arriverà” with the popular rock group Modà. The collaboration was magic, and they finished in second place behind Roberto Vecchioni.
“Arriverà” debuted at the top of the Italian singles chart and earned multiplatinum digital certification. More importantly, it established Emma as an artist capable of holding her own on Italy’s biggest stage alongside established acts.
But Emma wasn’t done with Sanremo. In 2012, she returned with the powerful ballad “Non è l’inferno” and this time, she won. On February 19, 2012, Emma was proclaimed the winner of the 62nd Sanremo Music Festival, cementing her status as one of Italy’s premier musical talents.
“Non è l’inferno” shot straight to number one on the Italian singles chart and earned double platinum certification. In Switzerland, it peaked at number 19, showing Emma’s growing international appeal.
“Sarò libera”: An Artist in Full Command
Emma’s second full-length studio album “Sarò libera” was released in September 2011, preceded by the title track single. The album debuted atop the Italian Albums Chart and was officially certified triple platinum—her most successful release to date.
The “Sarò libera” tour in 2012 sold more than 160,000 tickets with nearly every concert selling out. Emma had evolved from a talented newcomer to a bonafide concert draw, capable of filling venues across Italy.
The album yielded five singles: the title track, “Tra Passione e lacrime,” “Non è l’inferno,” “Cercavo amore,” and “Maledetto quel giorno.” “Cercavo amore” became particularly notable—it topped the Italian singles chart for two weeks, earned platinum certification, and was even featured in the video game Just Dance 4 as the only Italian song on the tracklist.
International Recognition: Eurovision and Beyond (2013-2017)
“Schiena” and Artistic Growth
In April 2013, Emma released her third studio album “Schiena,” which reached number one on the Italian Albums Chart and earned triple platinum certification. This album showcased Emma’s artistic maturity, with more introspective songwriting and a willingness to take creative risks.
Around this time, Emma was also selected as artistic director of one of the teams in “Amici di Maria De Filippi” in 2013, 2015, and 2016—a full-circle moment for the former contestant who had won the show just three years earlier.
Representing Italy at Eurovision 2014
On January 21, 2014, RAI announced that Emma would represent Italy at the Eurovision Song Contest 2014 in Copenhagen, Denmark, with the song “La mia città.” This was a tremendous honor—Eurovision is watched by hundreds of millions of viewers across Europe and beyond.
While Emma placed 21st in the final with 33 points, the experience expanded her international profile and demonstrated the respect she commanded within the Italian music industry. Not every artist is chosen to represent their country on such a prestigious stage.
“Adesso”: Evolution and Experimentation
Emma’s fourth studio album “Adesso” was released in November 2015, preceded by singles “Occhi profondi” and “Arriverà l’amore.” While the album peaked at number two (her first since “A me piace così” not to top the chart), it still showcased Emma’s continued evolution as an artist.
“Occhi profondi” was certified double platinum for sales exceeding 100,000 copies, proving Emma’s commercial viability remained strong. “Arriverà l’amore” debuted and peaked at number five, becoming the album’s highest-charting single.
Emma wasn’t content to simply repeat past formulas. She experimented with different sounds, collaborated with Spanish singer Álvaro Soler on “Libre” in 2016, and continued pushing her artistic boundaries.
Television, Film, and Expanded Horizons (2015-2020)
From Singer to Television Personality
In 2015, Emma co-hosted the 65th edition of the Sanremo Music Festival alongside Carlo Conti and Arisa—moving from competitor to host was another milestone in her career. Her television work earned her two Italian Television Direction Awards, recognizing her contributions beyond just music.
Acting Career
Emma also pursued acting opportunities, appearing in several Italian TV series and films. Most notably, she starred in acclaimed director Gabriele Muccino’s film “The Best Years” (Gli anni più belli) in 2020, demonstrating her versatility as a performer.
Between December 2021 and January 2022, Emma starred in Muccino’s Sky Italia series “A casa tutti bene,” further establishing her acting credentials.
“Essere qui”: New Directions
Emma’s fifth studio album “Essere qui” was released in January 2018. The lead single “L’isola” debuted at number seven on the Italian singles chart, with its music video filmed in New York and directed by Lukasz Pruchnik.
The album peaked at number two and spawned successful singles including “Effetto domino” and “Mi parli piano” (which spent 11 weeks on the Italian singles chart and earned gold certification). A reissued “Boom Edition” in November 2018 featured four new tracks, including “Mondiale,” which peaked at number seven.
In February 2019, Emma embarked on the “Essere qui” tour, continuing her tradition of connecting with fans through live performance.
Personal Struggles and Triumph (2019-2020)
A Health Crisis and Public Courage
In September 2019, Emma made a heartbreaking announcement that shocked her fans. She revealed she needed to take a break for health reasons, canceling a concert scheduled for Malta. While she didn’t provide details initially, Emma had previously disclosed in a 2011 interview with Gioia magazine that she had been diagnosed with uterine cancer in 2009, just before her breakthrough on Amici.
At that time, she had undergone a seven-hour emergency surgery in Rome, successfully removing the tumor while saving her womb. Her public discussion of cancer inspired many young people to prioritize early detection and cancer prevention.
The 2019 health scare was a recurrence that required another operation. On September 28, Emma announced she had left the hospital but needed more time to recover. Her openness about her health struggles endeared her even more to fans who admired her strength and vulnerability.
“Fortuna”: A Triumphant Return
Just weeks after her surgery, Emma announced on October 16, 2019, that her sixth studio album “Fortuna” would be released on October 25. The announcement included plans for a special concert on May 25, 2020 (her birthday) at the Arena di Verona to celebrate both the album and ten years of her solo career.
The lead single “Io sono bella” was written by legendary Italian rocker Vasco Rossi along with Gaetano Curreri, Gerardo Pulli, and Piero Romitelli, and produced by Dardust. It was recorded at Speakeasy Studio in Los Angeles, marking Emma’s continued artistic evolution.
“Fortuna” debuted atop the Italian Albums Chart, becoming her first album to reach number one since 2013’s “Schiena.” In January 2020, it was certified gold for sales exceeding 25,000 copies.
The album represented Emma at her most authentic—a serene, continuously changing artist projected toward the future. The title track focused on viewing things positively and the importance of trying, whether you succeed or not.
Continuing Through the Pandemic
In February 2020, Emma was a guest at the Sanremo Music Festival 2020, performing “Stupida allegria” (the second single from “Fortuna”) and a medley of her greatest hits. The song “Luci blu” was released as the third single in March 2020, with its emotionally powerful lyrics describing the death of a partner and resulting guilt.
Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Emma remained active. In August 2020, she released “Latina,” the final single from “Fortuna.”
Recent Years and Continued Success (2020-2024)
X Factor Italy Judge
In June 2020, Emma was confirmed as a judge on X Factor Italy alongside Hell Raton, Mika, and Manuel Agnelli. This role showcased another facet of her talent—mentoring the next generation of artists and sharing her hard-won wisdom about the music industry.
Collaborations and New Music
Emma continued collaborating with fellow Italian artists. In January 2021, she released “Pezzo di cuore” with Alessandra Amoroso (her fellow Amici alumna). The song was certified platinum by FIMI and the two performed it at the Sanremo Music Festival 2021 as special guests.
In June 2021, Emma released “Che sogno incredibile” with legendary Italian singer Loredana Bertè. These singles anticipated “Best of Me,” a compilation of Emma’s greatest hits released on June 24, 2021.
Return to Sanremo 2022
Emma competed at the Sanremo Music Festival 2022 with the song “Ogni volta è così,” placing sixth in the final ranking. The song peaked at number 13 on the Italian singles chart and was certified platinum, selling over 100,000 units—proof that even a decade into her career, Emma could still deliver chart-topping hits.
“Souvenir” and Latest Work (2023-2024)
On August 28, 2023, Emma announced “Souvenir,” her seventh studio album, released on October 13, 2023. The album was preceded by singles “Mezzo mondo,” “Taxi sulla Luna,” and “Iniziamo dalla fine.” In support of the album, Emma embarked on the “Souvenir in Da Club” tour in November and December 2023.
Emma competed in the Sanremo Music Festival 2024 with the song “Apnea,” placing 14th overall. In February 2024, she collaborated with Fabri Fibra and Baby Gang on “In Italia 2024,” a new version of Fibra’s 2008 single.
She embarked on the “Emma in Da Town” tour of Italian arenas in November 2024, continuing her tradition of connecting with fans through electrifying live performances.

Musical Style and Influences
A Distinctive Voice
Emma Marrone is known for her powerful, raspy, and hoarse voice—instantly recognizable within the first few notes. Her vocal timbre has been described as “biting” by music critics, with an emotional rawness that connects deeply with listeners.
Pop-Rock Identity
While Emma has experimented with various genres throughout her career, she’s primarily identified as a pop and rock musician. Her music blends catchy pop melodies with rock edge, creating a sound that’s both radio-friendly and artistically credible.
Artistic Influences
Immersed in music from childhood, Emma has cited several key influences:
- Gianna Nannini: Emma’s primary artistic reference point, the legendary Italian rock singer who shares Emma’s raspy vocal quality and rebellious spirit
- Mina: The iconic Italian singer known for her powerful voice and interpretive skills
- Loredana Bertè: Another Italian rock icon Emma has long admired (and later collaborated with)
- Vasco Rossi: The Italian rock legend who would later write songs for Emma
Pianist Nazzareno Carusi praised Emma’s particular style, wild beauty, and instinctive singing, though he suggested she study vocal technique to avoid straining her voice. Fellow artist Roberto Vecchioni, who worked with Emma on her interpretive skills, called her “one of the best singers of the moment.”
Songwriter and Producer
Beyond her abilities as a vocalist and performer, Emma has established herself as a talented songwriter. She’s written songs for other artists including Antonino (“Resta ancora un po’,” which peaked at number six on the Italian singles chart) and Elodie. She’s also worked as a producer, expanding her role in the creative process.
Philanthropy and Social Activism
Cancer Awareness Advocacy
Emma’s personal experience with cancer transformed her into a passionate advocate for cancer awareness and early detection. Since May 2011, she has served as a testimonial for AIRC (Italian Association for Cancer Research), helping raise funds and awareness for cancer research.
She also supported ANT (National Association of Cancer), a ONLUS organization providing free home health care for cancer patients. By publicly sharing her own cancer journey, Emma has encouraged countless young people to prioritize their health and seek early screenings.
Women’s Rights
In February 2011 and 2012, Emma participated in “Se non ora quando” (If not now, when), a movement protesting in support of women’s rights. She’s consistently used her platform to advocate for gender equality and women’s empowerment in Italy and beyond.
Other Social Causes
Emma has participated in numerous charitable initiatives throughout her career:
- Drug Prevention: In May 2012, she participated in the “Dream on” show organized by the Department for Drug Policy, delivering a message against drug use
- ALS Research: In July 2012, she performed at the “SLAncio di vita” concert to fund research on amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
- Anti-Nuclear Activism: During her “A me piace così Tour” in 2011, Emma created a shirt personally written with “Stop Nuclear,” declaring her opposition to nuclear power in Italy
- Immigration Rights: She participated in the “O’Scià” concert raising awareness about illegal immigration challenges in Sicily
- Children’s Health: In 2012, Emma worked with fashion footwear brand Ishikawa, creating 300 pieces with proceeds donated to Association Onus Peter Pan to help sick children
In several interviews, Emma has stated she’s participated in social services and community events since she was very young, viewing giving back as an essential part of who she is.
Personal Life
Relationships
Emma’s personal life has often been in the public eye. At the end of 2009, she began a relationship with fellow “Amici di Maria De Filippi” participant and dancer Stefano De Martino. After a brief separation caused by his affair with another dancer, they reconciled in March 2011.
However, in April 2012, the couple broke up definitively after De Martino began a relationship with showgirl Belén Rodríguez. The breakup was public and painful, but Emma handled it with grace and dignity, channeling her emotions into her music.
Life Today
Emma was born in Florence but graduated from high school in Aradeo. She now lives in Frascati, near Rome, where she continues creating music and pursuing various artistic projects. Despite her fame, she’s maintained connections to her roots in Puglia and the values instilled by her family.
Awards and Recognition
Throughout her career, Emma has received numerous awards and nominations:
- Venice Music Awards 2010: Best Female Vocalist of the Year
- Sanremo Music Festival 2012: Winner
- Wind Music Awards: Multiple wins for multiplatinum and platinum certifications
- MTV Italian Music Awards: Three wins
- TRL Awards: Multiple wins including “Italians Do It Better”
- Italian Television Direction Awards: Two wins for her work as artistic director on Amici
- Kids’ Choice Award nominations: 2012 and 2013 for Best Italian Singer
- MTV Europe Music Award nomination
- World Music Awards nomination
- AllMusic Italia Awards 2019: Best Pop/Rock Album for “Fortuna”
Complete Discography Highlights
Studio Albums:
- A me piace così (2010) – Double Platinum
- Sarò libera (2011) – Triple Platinum
- Schiena (2013) – Triple Platinum
- Adesso (2015)
- Essere qui (2018)
- Fortuna (2019) – Gold
- Souvenir (2023)
EPs:
- Oltre (2010) – Triple Platinum
Notable Singles:
- “Calore” (2010) – Platinum
- “Arriverà” with Modà (2011) – Multiplatinum
- “Non è l’inferno” (2012) – Double Platinum
- “Cercavo amore” (2012) – Platinum
- “La mia città” (2014) – Eurovision entry
- “Occhi profondi” (2015) – Double Platinum
- “Io sono bella” (2019)
- “Ogni volta è così” (2022) – Platinum
Legacy and Cultural Impact
A Voice for Authenticity
In an industry often criticized for manufactured pop stars and superficiality, Emma Marrone has remained defiantly authentic. She’s never hidden her struggles, whether with her health, relationships, or the challenges of the music business. This honesty has created an incredibly loyal fanbase who see themselves reflected in her journey.
Breaking Gender Barriers
Emma’s success in a male-dominated Italian rock scene has inspired countless young women to pursue music careers. She’s proven that female artists can be powerful, edgy, and commercially successful without conforming to traditional expectations.
Bridging Generations
From young fans who discovered her on X Factor to older listeners who appreciate her collaborations with legends like Vasco Rossi and Loredana Bertè, Emma’s appeal spans generations. She’s managed to stay relevant for over a decade without compromising her artistic vision.
The Talent Show Success Story
Emma represents one of the most successful examples of a talent show contestant evolving into a long-term, critically respected artist. While many competition winners fade after initial success, Emma has built a lasting career with artistic credibility and commercial achievement.
What Makes Emma Marrone Special
Vocal Power and Emotion
Emma’s voice is her greatest instrument—raw, powerful, and emotionally charged. Whether she’s belting out a rock anthem or delivering an intimate ballad, her vocals convey genuine emotion that listeners can feel.
Songwriting Authenticity
As a songwriter, Emma writes from personal experience. Her songs about love, loss, struggle, and triumph resonate because they’re real. She’s lived the stories she tells through her music.
Stage Presence
Emma is an electrifying live performer. Her concerts are known for high energy, emotional connection with audiences, and her ability to command a stage. She often plays guitar during performances, adding another dimension to her artistry.
Resilience and Courage
Perhaps most inspiring is Emma’s resilience. From struggling in unknown bands to fighting cancer twice, from public heartbreak to industry pressures, she’s faced numerous challenges and emerged stronger each time.
Social Consciousness
Emma uses her platform for good. Her advocacy for cancer awareness, women’s rights, and various social causes demonstrates an artist who understands her responsibility to her community.
Interesting Facts About Emma Marrone
- Multi-Talented Performer: Besides singing, Emma plays guitar and has developed acting skills, appearing in films and TV series.
- Family Musical Legacy: Her father Rosario was a guitarist in local bands, and Emma performed with his band H2O before her solo breakthrough.
- Video Game Feature: “Cercavo amore” was the only Italian song featured in Just Dance 4, introducing her music to international gaming audiences.
- Eurovision Preparation: Before representing Italy at Eurovision 2014, Emma spent months learning and perfecting her English pronunciation for potential international promotion.
- Fashion Collaborations: Emma has collaborated with fashion brands, personally designing shoes with proceeds benefiting children’s charities.
- Dialect Pride: Her first tour name “Ahi ce sta passu” used Salentino dialect, showing pride in her southern Italian heritage.
- Cover Artist: Emma has covered songs by international artists like Amen Corner and Dawn Penn, showcasing her musical versatility.
- Festival Regular: She’s participated in the Sanremo Music Festival in various capacities—as competitor, winner, host, and guest—more than any other artist of her generation.
- Cross-Genre Collaborator: Emma has worked with artists across genres, from rapper Fabri Fibra to pop star Álvaro Soler to rock legend Vasco Rossi.
- Los Angeles Recording: For her “Fortuna” album, Emma traveled to Los Angeles to record at Speakeasy Studio, working with international producers to expand her sound.
The Emma Marrone Effect on Italian Music
Emma’s success has influenced Italian music in several ways:
Normalizing Vulnerability: Her openness about cancer, mental health, and personal struggles has encouraged other artists to be more authentic about their lives.
Empowering Female Artists: Emma paved the way for more female rock-influenced pop artists in Italy’s male-dominated music scene.
Talent Show Legitimacy: Her sustained success helped legitimize talent shows as viable launching pads for serious musical careers, not just quick fame.
Social Activism in Pop: Emma demonstrated that pop stars can be activists, using their platforms for social causes without alienating commercial audiences.
Genre-Bending: Her fusion of pop accessibility with rock edge has inspired a generation of Italian artists to resist genre restrictions.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Emma?
At 40 years old (as of 2024), Emma Marrone shows no signs of slowing down. With seven studio albums, multiple Sanremo appearances, Eurovision representation, acting roles, and more than a decade of consistent success, she’s already cemented her legacy in Italian music history.
Her recent tours continue selling out venues across Italy. Her social media presence keeps her connected with millions of fans. And her willingness to experiment musically suggests there are still creative territories to explore.
Emma has hinted at international collaborations and has expressed interest in exploring more acting opportunities. Whatever direction she chooses, her fanbase will follow, knowing they’ll get the same authenticity and passion that’s defined her entire career.

Frequently Asked Questions About Emma Marrone
How old is Emma Marrone?
Emma Marrone is 41 years old as of 2024. She was born on May 25, 1984, in Florence, Italy, making her a Gemini. Despite being in her 40s, Emma continues to dominate the Italian music scene with sold-out tours, new album releases, and remains one of the most influential pop-rock artists in contemporary Italian music.
Who is Emma Marrone?
Emma Marrone is an Italian pop-rock singer, songwriter, and actress born on May 25, 1984, in Florence, Italy. She rose to fame after winning the talent show “Amici di Maria De Filippi” in 2010 and has since become one of Italy’s most successful recording artists with over 2 million records sold, seven studio albums, and a Sanremo Music Festival victory in 2012.
3. What is Emma Marrone famous for?
Emma Marrone is famous for winning the Sanremo Music Festival in 2012 with “Non è l’inferno,” representing Italy at Eurovision Song Contest 2014, and her powerful raspy voice. She’s known for hit songs like “Calore,” “Arriverà” (with Modà), “Cercavo amore,” and “Io sono bella.” She’s also recognized as a cancer survivor and advocate for cancer awareness and women’s rights.
How many albums has Emma Marrone released?
Emma Marrone has released seven studio albums: “A me piace così” (2010), “Sarò libera” (2011), “Schiena” (2013), “Adesso” (2015), “Essere qui” (2018), “Fortuna” (2019), and “Souvenir” (2023). She also released the EP “Oltre” (2010) and a compilation album “Best of Me” (2021). Three of her albums have achieved triple platinum certification in Italy.
Did Emma Marrone have cancer?
Yes, Emma Marrone is a two-time cancer survivor. She was first diagnosed with uterine cancer in 2009, just before her breakthrough on Amici, and underwent a seven-hour emergency surgery. In September 2019, she experienced a recurrence and had another operation. Emma has been open about her health struggles and now serves as a spokesperson for cancer awareness and early detection through organizations like AIRC.
Is Emma Marrone married or in a relationship?
Emma Marrone is currently not married. She was previously in a high-profile relationship with dancer Stefano De Martino from 2009 to 2012, which ended when he began dating showgirl Belén Rodríguez. Emma has kept her personal life relatively private in recent years, focusing on her music career, acting projects, and social advocacy work.
Conclusion: An Icon of Resilience and Authenticity
Emma Marrone biography is more than a list of albums, awards, and chart positions—it’s a story of perseverance, authenticity, and the transformative power of music. From a struggling artist performing in small venues to one of Italy’s most celebrated singers, Emma’s journey inspires anyone facing obstacles in pursuit of their dreams.
She’s survived cancer twice, endured public heartbreak, navigated the pressures of fame, and emerged not just intact but thriving. Her powerful voice—both literally in her music and figuratively in her advocacy—has touched millions of lives across Europe and beyond.
Today, Emma Marrone stands as proof that talent, combined with determination and authenticity, can overcome any obstacle. She’s not just a singer, songwriter, actress, or television personality—she’s a cultural icon who represents the best of what artists can be: talented, brave, compassionate, and uncompromisingly real.
Whether performing on the Sanremo stage, in sold-out arenas, or using her platform to advocate for cancer awareness and social justice, Emma continues inspiring fans with the same message that’s driven her entire career: be yourself, fight for what you believe in, and never, ever give up.
Her legacy isn’t just in the millions of records sold or the awards won—it’s in the lives she’s touched, the barriers she’s broken, and the path she’s cleared for future generations of Italian artists to follow their own authentic voices.