Måneskin: A Band Standing for Change

Unconventional, inclusive, and rebellious, the Italian band Måneskin is not just a sensation sweeping the Eurovision stage but a beacon of change in the music industry. Their identities and messages are as diverse as their music, breaking boundaries and norms in a society often sobered by conservatism. Led by Damiano David, the band has faced backlash over accusations of queerbaiting, all the while singlehandedly toppling stereotypes through their makeup, clothing choices, and open discussions on sexuality.

Sexuality and Gender Fluidity within Måneskin

Across Måneskin's members, the sexual orientations vary, fostering an inclusive space for representation within the band. Damiano David defines his sexuality as straight but curious, Thomas Raggi is straight, while Victoria De Angelis identifies as bisexual and Ethan Torchio as sexually free. These come at a price, seen with David and Raggi, in a society hooked to stereotypes, meaning that these members have also faced accusations of queerbaiting.

Showcasing LGBTQ+ Support

The band's support for the LGBTQ+ community transcends their personal lives, leaving an indelible mark on their performances and public statements. This became evident when Damiano and Thomas shared a gay kiss on Polish TV to show their support for the community. Amid conservative backlash and a perpetual chance of stirring up controversy, they consistently incorporate queer imagery in their videos and performances.

Navigating Challenges in the Italian Society

However, the band's image and fluidity have drawn mixed reactions in their homeland. Victoria De Angelis has faced stares and discomfort when openly dating women in Italy, reflecting the country's conservative and Catholic views on homosexuality. The recent political climate dominated by far-right Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who holds anti-LGBTQ+ views, adds another layer of complexity and risk to their open support. Yet, despite the challenges, De Angelis remains optimistic that younger generations will usher in more tolerance.

Måneskin's Message of Self-belief

Through these trials, Måneskin aims to spread a resounding message of self-belief, courage, and authenticity. The band unequivocally condemns bigotry and intolerance, focus instead on a simple but impactful mantra: "Love is never wrong". This message resonates through their interviews, public statements, and most notably, their music.

Rising to Global Popularity with 'Zitte e Buoni'

In 2021, Måneskin's dominance took international flight after winning the Eurovision competition with their song 'Zitte e Buoni', scoring a whopping 524 points. This pivotal moment for the band was crowned by Damiano David's triumphant announcement that "Rock’n’Roll never dies!". Soon, songs like 'Zitte e Buoni' and 'I Wanna Be Your Slave' found their way into the playlists of avid music listeners worldwide.

'I Wanna Be Your Slave': A Statement of Fluidity

Not just musically, the band unleashed a whirlwind of gender-fluid imagery through their music video 'I Wanna Be Your Slave'. The provocative video, featuring scenes of kissing, sharing chewing gum, and wearing bondage gear, irrefutably challenges societal norms about sex and redemption. The inclusion of all their members in this narrative, irrespective of their sexual orientations, stands as a testament to their LGBTQ inclusivity.

The Impact of Måneskin's Inclusivity

From its formation in 2015 where they started by busking on the street, Måneskin has touched the sky with a dreamlike rise to fame. Their open representation of the LGBTQIA+ community through their music videos and themes, their defending message of love, their support at concerts and displays of LGBTQIA+ flags at shows, has all contributed in placing them among the few LGBTQIA+ artists who have won Eurovision. Thus, they aren't just a band, they are a symbol of progression in the music industry.