Mao

Mao—real name Mauro Gurlino—is an Italian singer-songwriter, composer, multi-instrumentalist, and media personality born in Turin on April 16, 1971. He’s been active since the late 1980s and really made his mark during the 1990s both as the frontman of Mao e la Rivoluzione—the band known for their pop-rock and alternative vibe—and as a popular co-host on MTV Italy’s hit show Kitchen alongside Andrea Pezzi. Over the years, Mao has built an eclectic career, mixing his love for music with work in radio, television, and acting.

As a solo artist, Mao has released albums like Black Mokette (2001), 500! (Original Soundtrack), Piume pazze (2010), and Meglio tardi che Mao (2011), as well as singles such as “Velenosa,” “Scusa caro vicino,” “Le cose,” and “Nudi alla meta.” He’s known for his broad musical influences, his talent on multiple instruments, and his knack for crossing between genres, from alternative rock to pop and even some soundtracks. Mao continues to be a lively figure in Italy’s music scene, both on stage and behind the scenes.