Matteo Bocelli may carry one of the most famous last names in music, but the rising singer says his career is very much his own. The 27-year-old artist, son of legendary Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli, has surprised fans by revealing that he does not rely on his father for career advice — a statement that is changing how many people view his musical journey.
Speaking recently, Matteo explained that while he occasionally shares his songs with his father, Andrea is not involved in key decisions about what he records or how he shapes his sound. “Honestly, my father is a spectator,” Matteo said. “Now and then, when I feel like playing some good songs I enjoy, I play them for him, but he’s not part of the process.”
That honesty has struck a chord with fans who often assume Matteo’s path is carefully guided by one of the most famous voices in the world. Instead, Matteo says any advice he does receive from his father is focused mainly on vocal technique, not creative direction. The rest, he insists, is up to him.
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Despite being born into musical royalty, Matteo has worked hard to build an identity beyond his father’s shadow. Born on October 8, 1997, in Forte dei Marmi, Italy, he grew up in a household where music was respected but never forced. He has an older brother, Amos, and a younger sister, Virginia, but Andrea did not even become aware of Matteo’s singing talent until Matteo was about 16 years old.
“My dad didn’t actually get involved in my musical education until my mum asked him to listen to me singing at home,” Matteo once explained. “Before that, he didn’t even know I could sing.”
That hands-off approach helped Matteo develop confidence in his own voice. His first major moment came in 2019 with Fall on Me, a duet with his father featured in The Nutcracker and the Four Realms. He later released his self-titled debut album in 2023, followed by his second studio album, Falling in Love, in 2025 — a project he has spent much of the past year focused on completing.
Alongside music, Matteo has also explored acting and says he hopes to return to it in the future if time allows. “I had so much fun doing it,” he said. “If I ever get the chance to act again, even in small roles, I’d definitely consider it.”
Looking ahead, Matteo has big dreams — including a possible collaboration with Ed Sheeran. His admiration for the British singer is clear, especially after Sheeran and his brother Matthew wrote Chasing Stars for him. While Matteo says he would love to share a stage with Sheeran one day, he admits the idea is a little intimidating. “I don’t know if I’d be able to handle the situation,” he said with a laugh.
As his profile continues to rise, Matteo is also preparing for a major moment in the spotlight. He is set to perform at the 2025 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, introducing his voice to millions of viewers and officially kicking off the holiday season.
For fans, Matteo Bocelli’s message is becoming clear: yes, he is Andrea Bocelli’s son — but his career is driven by personal choice, quiet determination, and a desire to earn success on his own terms. In stepping out of his father’s shadow, Matteo is proving that legacy can open doors, but talent and independence are what truly carry you forward.
