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'Na sera 'e maggio (One evening in May)
The song "'Na sera 'e maggio" (One evening in May) is a great classic of Neapolitan song, written by E. Cioffi and F. Pisano in 1919, capturing the beauty of a May night and the love between two young people.
The song describes the city of Naples caught at its most splendid, when spring bursts forth in all its beauty. The author also expresses his passion for music and poetry, as well as his love for the city. The song has been performed by countless Neapolitan artists, but the most famous versions are those sung by Mario Merola and Roberto Murolo.
The song has one of the most enchanting melodies in the Neapolitan tradition, built on a slow, serene rhythm accompanied by a mandolin arpeggio that recreates the magical sound of a May night. The lyrics, both intense and melancholy, melt the hearts of listeners and enchant their souls.
This song has been the soundtrack to many film scenes set against the backdrop of Naples, carrying its beauty and colours to the whole world. 'Na sera 'e maggio has by now become a symbol of romance and beauty, and an icon of Neapolitan culture.
In short, 'Na sera 'e maggio is an ode to the city of Naples and to love, a song that has won the hearts of many generations, not only Neapolitan ones. Its sweetness and poetry can be appreciated by anyone, and even today we can still listen to it and love it, just as people have done for over a century.
Posted in:
Neapolitan songs
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