@maiorano.music / linktr.ee/maiorano.band

Alex, can you tell us the story behind your new single “Rosa”? What inspired the lyrics and emotion behind it?
“Rosa” is a sad story, and I tried to make it feel a bit lighter through the music. It is not about a lover or a grandmother; it is the story of a father who destroys his path by killing his daughter. It is a heavy way to start, but that is the truth. It stayed in my mind for years until I turned it into a song.

The song has a raw and emotional quality. How did you approach the production to capture that essence?
Even though I have been making music for years, my approach to production is still very raw. I usually write with a small acoustic guitar and record ideas on my phone. In those early moments, I imagine how the song might eventually sound. Once I feel ready, I bring it to the band and from there we shape it into what it becomes.

Your heritage seems to influence your music significantly. How do your Italian roots shape your sound and artistic expression?
That is definitely true. In recent years, I have been influenced by a lot of Italian music, from classic songwriters like Battisti and Dalla to underground producers from the seventies. I would not call my music Italian exactly, but if you know that world, you will hear the influences. Plus, two other members of the band are Italian as well, so it was not just me bringing that in. Growing up, I was mostly into music from other countries and did not explore Italian music. But once I did, I could not stop. There is so much depth to I, and I love how some of those artists change style with every album, exploring genres without labels. I see the same in my band, too.

Let us talk about the magic and importance of band members. How did you meet Alessio, Emiliano, Nicola and Mauro, and what roles do they play in your musical journey?
Magic is exactly the word. We are close friends, and musically we are really in tune with each other. When we are on stage, I feel like we all experience the same thing. I see it in their faces before, during and after a show; we are always aligned.
Alessio, on drums, and I have been playing together since we were teenagers. We even moved to Berlin together to chase our music dreams. Later, we met Nicola on sax and keys, and the three of us played in different projects for years, touring, travelling and building a real friendship. More recently, we added Mauro and Emiliano on bass and guitar, two incredible musicians from Argentina. They bring not just talent but a vibe and energy that fits the band. I write the songs, and they shape the music, the groove, and help me deliver it.

The combination of pop, soul and funk in your music is captivating. How would you describe your band’s unique sound?
I would say the new album is very groovy and very pop. Every track has a groove, and they are catchy. I love pop songs with choruses that stick. I am drawn to reggae and funky guitar style, so I have tried to blend those into our music. And soul, while we are not exactly a soul band, we bring soul into it.

How did relocating to Berlin influence your music and your approach to creating as a band?
Coming from a small town in Italy, moving to Berlin was a big shift. The music here is everywhere, and I got to finally be part of it, going to parties I only dreamed about, meeting DJs and musicians, and just soaking it all in. It made me want to try new things and be more open with my music.

The use of the saxophone in your music is quite prominent. What role does it play in the overall sound?
I have always loved the saxophone. It is a powerful and emotional instrument. We used to use it more, but now we keep it for key moments. Every time it comes in, the crowd goes wild. It always hits.

Fashion often plays an important part in an artist’s identity. How would you describe your style, and how does it relate to the music you create?
I agree. You either have a love for fashion or you don’t. You have to enjoy finding pieces, trying things out, and investing time in your style. I have always loved clothes, especially vintage. I think my style reflects our music. It is not tied to one genre; it is a mix. I am into 70s casual elegance, but I also love tattoos, gold chains, cowboy boots, Levi’s jeans, big hats, leather jackets and tracksuits. I like contrasts.

Are there any particular fashion influences that inspire you or your band’s image?
I would say Italian seventies, Blaxploitation, Jamaican Rude Boys.

Photography by Jess Kearney jesskearney.com / Instagram: @Jesskearney
Brands used are: Gucci, Wrangler, Barbour, Lacoste @wrangler @gucci @barbour @lacoste