Matteo Bocelli says that while he is “very proud” of his father Andrea, he is determined to make his own mark in music as he releases his second album.
The 26-year-old, who grew up surrounded by classical tradition, has just unveiled Falling in Love, a record that blends his operatic heritage with modern pop, recorded at home in Tuscany and now available worldwide.
“Being at home gave the album a very natural and relaxed feeling,” he told The Standard. “We were all living together, cooking, spending time outside, and then going into the studio. That atmosphere shaped the music and made it feel authentic to who I am every day.”
He describes his latest collection as a step forward from his debut. “The first tour was about introducing myself and my debut album,” he said. “Now I feel more sure of the direction I want to go and I have new songs to share from Falling in Love.”
Part of his journey has been learning how to balance his heritage with his individuality. “I’m very proud of my father and everything he represents,” he said. “But I also know I have to create my own story.”
That legacy is also being celebrated on the big screen in Andrea Bocelli: Because I Believe, a new biopic chronicling his father’s life.
“It’s emotional to see his story told like that because I know how much he has been through and how hard he has worked. I think people will get to see the human side of his journey,” Matteo remarked. “And yes, you might see me in there briefly! I wish I was able to be around more for it, but unfortunately our schedules are both so busy and it’s hard to get to be there for everything.”
Matteo has already performed for King Charles, Pope Leo XIV and former US president Joe Biden, though he admits the nerves never fully go away. “Yes, I still get nervous,” he said. “I think every artist does. But once the show starts and I connect with the audience, those nerves turn into positive energy.”
He has also dabbled in fashion campaigns, acting and even voiced himself in The Simpsons. More screen work could lie ahead.
“I enjoyed those experiences but music will always be my main focus. If I were to explore something else, probably acting. It is something I would like to try more of in the future.”
Romance is a recurring theme throughout Falling in Love, though not always in the way listeners might expect.
“Romance for me is not only about love stories,” he reflected. “It is also about the small things in life that make you feel connected, like time with family, traveling, or sharing moments with people. That feeling of connection is what I wanted to capture on the album.”
That sense of connection will be central when he takes Falling in Love on the road later this year. Bocelli’s UK tour opens at Manchester’s Bridgewater Hall on 2 November, followed by Birmingham Symphony Hall on 4 November, before heading to London’s Adelphi Theatre on 5 November. Fans can expect favourites from his debut alongside new material that reflects his growth.
Falling In Love is out now on Decca Records. Matteo plays Adelphi Theatre on 5th November, tickets are on-sale now at ticketmaster.co.uk/
