Exclusive Interview: Pop Culturalist Chats with Edo Ferragamo

Born and raised in Florence, Italy, rising singer-songwriter Edo Ferragamo has always been passionate about music. He knew with hard work anything was possible. After graduating high school, he auditioned and attended the Berklee College of Music. It would be a life-changing decision that would jumpstart his career. Pop Culturalist recently caught up with Edo to chat about his journey, his new single, and upcoming debut album.

PC: Who or what has had the biggest influence on your career?
Edo: When I was a kid, I was exposed to a lot of rock. I was inspired by bands like Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, and Guns N’ Roses. When I got to Berklee, I got into the jazz scene. It’s a bit more complicated than the rock stuff. But, my all-time favorite artist is John Mayer. I get inspired by a lot of different people. If I had to describe my sound, it’s a mix between John Mayer, Coldplay, Shawn Mendes, Kygo, and Imagine Dragons.

PC: Your family is well known in the fashion industry. Did you ever feel pressured to follow a similar career path?
Edo: I would say a little bit when I was younger. I had to prove to my family, especially my father, that I was motivated and driven enough to become an artist. I had to show them that I was willing to work really hard. From that, I learned what it really means to dedicate all of yourself to your passion and the hard work it takes to accomplish your goal. Don’t take anything for granted because nothing comes easy. That’s the biggest lesson I learned from my family.

PC: How challenging was it to pack up your life and move to America?
Edo: It was challenging, but it was always my dream. Growing up and listening to that type of music, there’s no better place than America to follow that dream. It’s a very American sound. I saw the opportunity to go to Berklee to work with the best musicians in the world and to learn from the best.

PC: You have a new single out. Tell us about “Justice” and what inspired the track.
Edo: “Justice” is the new single from my upcoming album. I’ve had this song for a while. I wrote it about three years ago. I write a lot of songs, and I have a catalog of about sixty songs or more. When I decided to put together an album, I knew “Justice” would be on there. It’s always had a special meaning for me. It has great melodies, and the hook is very catchy. I got together with Mike Gazzo to produce it. The inspiration behind “Justice” is a long-distance relationship. We were miles apart, and I remember the frustration of having to travel far to see each other. That’s why there’s a lyric that says, “I feel justice when it’s just us.” It’s a play on words.

PC: You’re releasing your debut album next year. What can you tell us about it? How did you whittle down to this selection of songs?
Edo: I write songs every day. This collection represents the past two or three years and all my experiences: everything from moving to America and having to establish myself in New York to having a long-distance relationship and then going through an intense breakup. I grew a lot during this process, both as a man and as a musician. This album embodies that.

Pop Culturalist Speed Round

PC: A band or artist that fans would be surprised to learn is on your playlist?
Edo: I have a few. One is an up-and-comer, and her name is Anna Rose. She’s a rock girl with an amazing voice. I just discovered her two weeks ago, and I’ve been listening to her. John Mayer is a great inspiration. I listen to him every couple of days. Oh, and Post Malone! I just saw him at Madison Square Garden, and he was incredible.

PC: First album you bought?
Edo: Iron Maiden

PC: First concert you attended?
Edo: Iron Maiden in Rome

PC: An album that changed your life and why?
Edo: Led Zeppelin IV. I was fifteen or sixteen at the time, and I just started learning guitar and rock history. I was obsessed with their videos and concerts. I would listen to “Stairway to Heaven” every day.

PC: A venue on your bucket list to perform at?
Edo: All the big ones like Madison Square Garden and Hollywood Bowl.

PC: A must-have on the road?
Edo: Lots of pillows

To keep up with Edo, follow him on Instagram. Pick up or stream “Justice” on Amazon Music, iTunes, or Spotify.