From street performer to Sanremo contender: Moroccan-born singer, 22, makes shortlist
In Italy, Selma Ezzine, a 22-year-old singer of Moroccan origin, is among the fifteen artists selected for Sanremo Giovani. After starting out as a street performer and finding success on television, she now hopes to secure a place at the prestigious Sanremo Festival in 2027.
In Benevento, in southern Italy, Selma Ezzine grew up surrounded by music. Her father is also a singer. After attending a music-focused high school, she began studying law, then decided to put her studies on hold to devote herself to her passion.
She performs at weddings, parties and on the street, particularly in Puglia, with a musician friend. At first shy in front of passersby, she learns to command the stage. Italian, French, English and Arabic make up her repertoire, reflecting her roots and her journey.
In February 2025, her life changed with “Dalla strada al palco,” a Rai 1 competition dedicated to street performers. She won the final after performing a duet with rapper BigMama on “Lady Marmalade.” Four months later, she released “C’était déjà écrit,” her first single, in French. Her story is told in a portrait broadcast by Rai.
Three TV wins, then Sanremo
In 2026, Selma continues her rise on “Tale e Quale Show,” a program in which contestants impersonate famous singers. On October 28, she won her third show of the season with an impersonation of Dionne Warwick. With 86 points, she finished four points ahead of her closest rival.
The day before, another announcement had come. Rai announced her selection as one of fifteen artists chosen after the Sanremo Giovani auditions. She performs “Io sognerò,” “I will dream” in French.
The next steps are highly selective. Only six contestants will reach the televised final on December 11, and then a single winner will earn a place at the 2027 Sanremo Festival. For the singer who once performed for passersby, the stage at the Ariston is now a concrete goal.
