Sal Da Vinci’s Triumph at Sanremo: A Lifetime in the Making
Sanremo, Italy – March 1, 2026 – Sal Da Vinci has been crowned the winner of the 2026 Sanremo Music Festival with his song, “Per sempre sì” (“Forever Yes”). The victory marks a significant moment in the 50-year career of the Neapolitan artist, born Salvatore Michael Sorrentino in New York in 1969.
Da Vinci’s win felt like a culmination of a long journey, a “revival” after years of dedication. The song, produced by Merk & Kremont and Adriano Pennino, and co-written by Da Vinci himself alongside Francesco Da Vinci, Alessandro La Cava, Federica Abbate, Merk & Kremont and Eugenio Maimone, resonated with audiences and secured him the top prize.
Born while his father, the renowned singer and actor Mario Da Vinci, was on tour in the United States, Salvatore Michael Sorrentino’s life has always been intertwined with the world of entertainment. He debuted on stage at the age of six, performing a duet with his father. His childhood was filled with the energy of theatre, tours, and the responsibilities that came with being the son of a prominent performer.
Da Vinci’s path wasn’t without its challenges. In the 1990s, he faced hesitation from record labels who questioned his roots in sceneggiata, a traditional Neapolitan dramatic performance. Financial difficulties arose, compounded by the responsibility of raising two children, Francesco and Annachiara, with his wife, Paola, whom he has been with since they were teenagers.
Paola played a crucial role in his career, offering support and guidance during difficult times. When presented with an opportunity in theatre, despite his desire to continue pursuing music, she encouraged him to accept, recognizing the need for stability for their family. This led to success with “C’era una volta… Scugnizzi,” a theatrical production that revitalized his career.
Despite achieving a third-place finish at Sanremo in 2009, Da Vinci continued to navigate a changing music landscape. He questioned his place in a world increasingly dominated by trap and rap. However, Paola reminded him of his strengths, telling him that theatre was his home.
A turning point came in 2024 with the unexpected success of “Rossetto e caffè” (“Lipstick and Coffee”), which became a viral sensation. This was followed by his triumphant win at Sanremo 2026 with “Per sempre sì,” a song dedicated to Paola and representing a universal message of love and commitment.
Da Vinci carries personal mementos with him on stage – photographs of his father, Mario, his own father Carmine, and a deceased friend – a ritual reflecting his faith, memory, and roots.
The victory has sparked celebrations throughout Naples, a testament to Da Vinci’s enduring connection to his hometown. He remains a fixture in his community, known for his approachable demeanor and genuine connection with his fans.
Now a grandfather to Salvatore, Nina, and Antonio, Da Vinci’s success story is one of perseverance, dedication, and the enduring power of love and family. His win at Sanremo is not just a trophy, but a validation of a life lived with consistency and authenticity. He is, as described, the voice of Naples, resonating across generations.