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Sanremo 2026 First Listen Names Early Standouts as 30-Track Field Leans Toward Ballads

Press appraisals set expectations before live judging after Carlo Conti touted a broader mix with record songwriter participation.

Overview

  • At Rai's Milan studios, Carlo Conti led an advance listening session of all 30 entries, giving media a first pass at the lineup.
  • Conti framed the selection as a varied bouquet and highlighted 109 credited authors, while reviewers emphasized a prevalence of introspective ballads.
  • Early write-ups consistently position Fedez and Marco Masini as podium contenders, with Eddie Brock frequently cited as a surprise to watch.
  • Ermal Meta's Stella stellina is singled out for addressing the IsraelGaza war, presented as dedicated to a child killed in Gaza.
  • Focus now turns to the orchestra dress rehearsal at the Teatro Ariston on Feb. 23 and the festival nights from Feb. 24–28, when live performances and voting will shape the verdicts.