Malafemmena


"Malafemmena" is a song written by the Neapolitan actor Totò in 1951. It has become one of the most popular Italian songs, a classic of the Canzone Napoletana genre, and has been recorded by many artists.

Background

Totò dedicated the song, which is in [Napulitano|the Neapolitan language], to his wife, Diana Bandini, after they separated in 1950. It was first sung by Antonio Basurto, then by Mario Abbate before becoming a hit for Giacomo Rondinella.

Film music

The song was used in the film Totò, Peppino [e la malafemmina] directed by Camillo Mastrocinque, sung by Teddy Reno. It was the top-grossing movie of the year in Italy with a 1,751,300 Italian lire turnover.

Covers

Among the many artists who have covered this song are the following: