Il Gatto E La Volpe

The song 'Il Gatto E La Volpe' by Edoardo Bennato is a satirical take on deceit and exploitation in the music industry. The title, which translates to 'The Cat and The Fox,' is a direct reference to the cunning characters from the classic tale of Pinocchio, who are known for their trickery and for leading the protagonist astray. Bennato uses these characters as metaphors for unscrupulous music producers or managers who prey on the naive and ambitious.

The lyrics speak directly to the listener, warning them of the fast-paced nature of the industry and the false promises made by those looking to exploit talent for their own gain. The cat and the fox, representing the deceitful duo, offer their 'services' to the unsuspecting artist, promising fame and success in exchange for a fee. They claim to be experts in recognizing talent and assure the artist that signing a contract with them will lead to stardom. However, the underlying message is one of caution, as the contract is likely to favor the exploiters, stripping the artist of their rights and leaving them with nothing.

Bennato's song is not just a narrative about the music industry but also a broader commentary on the dangers of trusting those who seem too eager to help, especially when they stand to benefit from your situation. The repeated line 'Di noi ti puoi fidar,' which means 'You can trust us,' is delivered with a sense of irony, highlighting the importance of being wary of those who promise the world without any real substance or integrity behind their words.