Club Dogo Are Back
The Club Dogo comeback trail has begun. Ten consecutive concerts starting on March 10th and continuing throughout the summer. All the tickets have been sold many months ago in what has proved to be one of the most successful reunions in the history of Italian music. Fans old and new have been thrilled to see this iconic group together again after so many years. They were not disappointed as the trio were joined by some of the other great Italian Hip Hop artists such as J-Ax as performing many of their classic hits. Club Dogo gave their fans just what they wanted and even more as there was also some new material from their latest album Club released last January and which has already gone platinum.
But who are Club Dogo? A name that resonates deeply within the Italian music scene, they have been a pioneering force in bringing hip-hop to the forefront of Italian culture. Formed in 2002, this dynamic group have not only contributed significantly to the evolution of Italian hip-hop but has also influenced the broader music industry in Italy. Their origins date back to the late 1990s when the underground hip-hop scene in Italy was first evolving. Gué Pequeno and Jake La Furia, initially part of the Sacre Scuole group, teamed up with producer Don Joe whose innovative beats and production skills added a new dimension to their music to form Club Dogo in Milan. Their name, inspired by the Dogo Argentino breed of dog, symbolizes strength and tenacity, traits that have been evident throughout their career.
Milan, with its rich history and cosmopolitan vibe, provided the perfect backdrop for the emergence of Club Dogo. The city’s underground music scene, characterized by a raw and authentic energy, played a crucial role in their development. Milan’s influence on Club Dogo is evident in their music, which often features references to the city’s landmarks, neighbourhoods, and lifestyle. The city’s fashion and art scenes have also left their mark on the group’s aesthetic and public persona. Collaborations with local artists and participation in Milanese cultural events have further cemented their connection to the city. In return, Club Dogo’s success has had a profound impact on Milan’s music scene. They have played a pivotal role in bringing hip-hop to the forefront of Italian culture, inspiring a new generation of artists. Club Dogo’s influence can also be seen in the way they have paved the way for other Milanese artists. Their success has shown that hip-hop can thrive in Italy, encouraging new talent to emerge and experiment with the genre. Their ability to blend traditional hip-hop elements with contemporary sounds has set a benchmark for quality and creativity.
The group’s commercial success, particularly with albums like Che Bello Essere Noi (2010), has helped to mainstream hip-hop in Italy. Their music has transcended the underground scene, reaching a wider audience and gaining recognition both nationally and internationally.
Club Dogo’s debut album, Mi Fist (2003), marked the beginning of their rise to prominence. The album’s raw and gritty lyrics, combined with innovative beats, captured the essence of urban life in Milan and resonated with a wide audience. Songs like “Doppia H” and “Sangue” showcased their lyrical prowess and set the tone for their future projects.
Following the success of Mi Fist, Club Dogo continued to release a string of successful albums, including Penna Capitale (2006) and Vile Denaro (2007). Each album demonstrated their growth as artists, with more sophisticated production and thought-provoking lyrics addressing social and political issues.
Their 2010 album, Che Bello Essere Noi, was a commercial breakthrough, featuring hits like “Per la gente” and “Spacco tutto.” The album’s success solidified their status as mainstream artists while maintaining their credibility in the hip-hop community
Club Dogo’s influence extends far beyond their music. They have played a crucial role in legitimizing hip-hop as a genre in Italy, paving the way for future artists. Their collaboration with mainstream Italian artists and participation in major music festivals have brought hip-hop to a broader audience.
Their innovative approach to music production and storytelling has inspired a new generation of Italian rappers. Club Dogo’s ability to blend traditional hip-hop elements with contemporary sounds has kept their music relevant and engaging.
In addition to their musical endeavours, the members of Club Dogo have ventured into various other projects. Gué Pequeno has had a successful solo career, releasing several critically acclaimed albums. Jake La Furia has also pursued solo projects and appeared as a judge on the Italian version of The Voice. Don Joe has established himself as a prominent producer, working with a variety of artists across different genres. Their individual projects have further solidified their status as key figures in Italian hip-hop.
Club Dogo’s journey from the underground hip-hop scene to mainstream success is a testament to their talent, perseverance, and innovative spirit. They have not only left an indelible mark on the Italian music scene but have also contributed to the global hip-hop culture. As they continue to evolve and explore new artistic avenues, Club Dogo remains a seminal force in Italian music, inspiring both fans and fellow musicians alike…AND NOW THEY ARE BACK!!!