Italian singer Maria Ilva Bjocati, better known as Milva, died at the age of 82, Italian media reported today, referring to her family.
Milva, who had been ill for years, died last night in Milan, her daughter told the Ansa agency.
She interpreted some of the most successful Italian songs during the 1960s and 1970s, and with her red hair, she was known far beyond Italy.
"Milva was one of the most intense interpreters of the Italian chanson. Her voice evoked intense feelings in entire generations," said Italian Minister of Culture Dario Franceschini.
Born on July 17, 1939 in the village of Goro in Emilia Romagna, Milva appeared on the Italian art scene during the San Remo Song Festival in 1961, when she won third place.
Her talent was recognized far beyond Italian borders, especially in Latin America, Spain, France, where she was compared to Edith Piaf, and in Germany.
Bonus video:
