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Mon, May 20, 2024, 13:10
- Francesco Principato was one of the biggest names in Italy's progressive trance scene of the '90s.
Renowned Italian DJ, producer and vocalist Francesco Principato, AKA Franchino, has died aged 71.
The news emerged yesterday, May 19th, via a statement on Principato's Instagram account, written by his management team. "With immense sadness and deep sorrow, the family and close friends announce the passing of the beloved Franchino, who passed away today after several weeks in the hospital," the statement read. "You were a special person for all those people who were lucky enough to know you, and you brightened our lives with your smile, your strength and your courage."
Born in Sicily and raised in Tuscany, Principato first started DJing in 1970 at 7eleven Disco Club in Florence. He went on to take up residencies at clubs across the country, including Capo Nord and Tartana in Tuscany, and Club 64 on the island of Elba.
Principato fell in love with electronic music after spending time in Ibiza in the late '80s and early '90s. He's most commonly associated with the progressive trance scene, working alongside artists such as Ricky Le Roy and Mario Più. As a vocalist, he assumed the role of storyteller, inventing absurd, detailed tales that he often read out during his sets.
On the production front, "Bambolina" (with Le Roy), "999" and "I Will Find You" are among his best-known tracks. His DJ appearances became more sporadic from the late '00s onwards, while his last album, La Macchina Del Tempo, was released in 2023.
Listen to "Bambolina," and read some tributes.