Wine and Ginger: My Pre-Show Ritual That Surprises All

Before I hit the stage, I sip red wine and munch ginger. It’s my unique pre-show ritual! Curious why? Let me share my culinary journey with you.

Unveiling the Unexpected: My Pre-Show Ritual

When it comes to preparing for a performance, we all have our quirks. For me, wine plays a surprisingly pivotal role in my pre-show routine. Before stepping onto the stage, I sip a glass of rich red wine. It’s not just about indulgence; it’s about finding that moment of calm before the storm. You see, music and food have always intertwined in my life—each feeding off the other like the perfect pairing on a dinner plate.

But wait! The twist doesn’t end there. Alongside my glass of vino, I pop a few pieces of ginger into my mouth. Yes, ginger! This little root is not only a flavorful addition but also serves as a powerful anti-inflammatory agent that helps keep my voice clear and ready to shine. The combination might seem odd to some, but trust me, it works wonders!

A Culinary Adventure Through Sanremo

Reflecting on this year’s Sanremo Festival brings back vivid memories of culinary delights from my homeland—Puglia. While many artists showcased their latest hits, I felt compelled to represent our rich gastronomic heritage through music and taste. Picture this: a bright yellow Volkswagen Beetle adorned with the logo of Raffo beer cruising through the streets of Sanremo—my homage to Puglia’s vibrant culture.

Curiosity drives me when it comes to food; I’m not one to seek out Italian restaurants abroad when I can explore local flavors and spices instead. My philosophy? Dive into the unfamiliar and embrace what’s authentic!

Family Traditions on My Plate

Food evokes memories, doesn’t it? For me, nothing takes me back quite like orecchiette made by my grandmother. This simple dish symbolizes hours spent in the kitchen and traditions passed down through generations.

• The comforting scent of ragù di brasciole, simmering slowly until perfection.
• Reminiscing about my nonna preparing snails in tomato sauce—a dish that intrigued me as a child even if it seems unusual now.
  These meals are more than just sustenance; they are tales woven into every bite.

In fact, if my latest song were a dish, it would undoubtedly be homemade orecchiette with ragù—a dish as rich and soulful as the music itself.

The Magic of Local Eateries

After performing in Bari, there’s one spot that feels like home—N’ dèrr’a la lanze. Imagine an open-air fish market where fishermen lay their fresh catches right on wooden tables while you sip an aperitivo surrounded by fellow seafood lovers.

• Enjoying frutti di mare paired with a crisp local beer—the ultimate way to unwind!
• The atmosphere is alive with laughter and shared stories—a perfect post-performance celebration for any musician!

Culinary Rituals: Before and After Concerts

Every performance is unique, but one thing remains constant—my ritual before hitting the stage! Alongside that soothing red wine, I munch on ginger to keep vocal cords in check. Afterward? A simple yet satisfying meal like tartare or a fresh salad helps bring balance back after an energetic show.

• No desserts for me; I prefer savoring the savory.
• It’s all about nurturing both body and soul after delivering music from the heart.

Embracing Puglia’s Rich Heritage

As I proudly represent Puglia at Sanremo with every note sung and every sip taken from Raffo beer—I’m reminded that food isn’t just nourishment; it’s connection. While some may raise eyebrows at my choices or my love for this beautiful region’s culinary offerings, I firmly believe we should celebrate every facet of our heritage because that is what makes us truly unique.

So next time you’re faced with culinary choices before an important event or performance—consider this little ritual of mine: wine for courage and ginger for clarity. You might just find your own path to success!

Photo by D Z on Unsplash