Sammy Bartolo, born Salvu Bartolo on August 18, 1947, in Mellieħa, Malta, is remembered as one of the most beloved Maltese singers and a key figure in the island’s music scene. His life was marked by his distinctive voice and his contributions to Maltese music, both as a solo artist and as the lead vocalist of the iconic band New Cuorey. Bartolo’s musical career spanned more than three decades, earning him a place among the most cherished artists in Malta. He passed away on November 22, 1997, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate with his audience today.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Sammy Bartolo’s love for music blossomed at an early age. His first foray into the world of music occurred when he participated in a local song contest organised by the Żgħażagħ Ħaddiema Nsara at the tender age of 9. He initially played the drums and, by the age of 15, had formed his first band with other young musicians from Mellieħa. The early members of this group included his sister Mary Bartolo on vocals, Joe S. Grech on guitar, Joe Debono on bass, and Joe Bartolo on drums. Sammy himself took on the role of lead vocalist, marking the beginning of his long journey in music.
Formation of New Cuorey and International Success
Bartolo's music career truly flourished in his twenties when he collaborated with Joe S. Grech, Paul Abela (piano and synths), and Joe Bartolo to form New Cuorey. The group initially performed regularly at the Mellieħa Bay Hotel, and it was there that they gained the nickname "New Cuorey", a term used by hotel residents. This name stuck with them, likely influenced by the numerous Italian tourists staying at the hotel.
The band achieved significant success both locally and internationally. In 1972, they embarked on a tour of England, performing in leading clubs across Manchester and Blackpool. Inspired by their growing popularity, they began recording their music. Some of their early hits included songs like Il-Bajja tal-Mellieħa, Riviera Blu, Għajnejk Sbieħ, and Bħal daż-Żmien Konna Flimkien. These songs became instant hits, solidifying New Cuorey’s position in the Maltese music scene.
Their international ventures continued when they performed in Toronto, Canada, where they also appeared on Graham Cable TV and released the song Id-Dgħajsa tal-Latini. However, one of their most iconic songs, L-Aħħar Bidwi f’Wied il-Għasel, released in 1976, became a timeless Maltese classic. Written by Alfred C. Sant and composed by Paul Abela, the song even gained recognition from Italian artist Claudio Baglioni, who performed it during a 2007 concert in Malta and released it as a single the following year.
Notable Performances and Festivals
Aside from his work with New Cuorey, Bartolo's career as a soloist was equally impressive. He participated in several Maltese music festivals, including the Malta Song Festival and the Folk Festival. His song Tagħlima, composed by Jo Naudi, earned him second place at the first edition of Konkors Kanzunetta Indipendenza in 1983, where he also won the Best Singer Award. Over the years, Bartolo continued to participate in these festivals, with entries such as Urini Ħabib in 1984 and Sewwa Sew Illum in 1987.
In 1982, Bartolo represented Malta in Dresden, Germany, thanks to his participation in the Festival tal-Kanzunetta Maltija. One of his most popular hits, Poeżija, originated from the festival in 1985, becoming another notable song in his repertoire.
Later Career and Legacy
In 1986, Bartolo formed a new band, The Harmonics, and released a cassette titled Maltese Memories. He continued to collaborate with Paul Abela and Alfred C. Sant on several projects, including the album Unity for Liberation, which was published in Libya. As a versatile artist, he also took on acting roles, notably portraying Jesus Christ in the musical Ikun Li Trid Int, which aired on TVM in 1976. The music from this production was later released as an album.
Sammy Bartolo’s contributions to Maltese music did not end with his voice. In 1996, he recorded Ħallini Noħlom, a song featured on a double Christmas compilation album to raise funds for the Eden Foundation, a Maltese charity organisation. His final project came in 1997, when he reunited with the members of New Cuorey to record their old hits on a CD, adding a new song, Kemm Hu Sabiħ, written by Paul Abela and Ray Mahoney.
Sadly, Bartolo passed away on November 22, 1997, at the age of 50, just as the band had planned a tour of Australia. His untimely death marked the end of an era, but his music continued to live on.
Commemoration and Ongoing Legacy
To honor Bartolo’s memory and his contributions to Maltese music, his band-mates and family have taken numerous initiatives. In 2017, on the 20th anniversary of his death, New Cuorey guitarist Joe S. Grech spearheaded the release of a commemorative album titled New Cuorey, Sammy Bartolo: Is-Suċċessi. This album, a re-release of their 1997 compilation Il-Bajja tal-Mellieħa, included the original 16 tracks along with a bonus song, Tislima lil Sammy Bartolo: Leħen f’Tarf il-Wied, performed by various Mellieħa artists, including Bartolo’s daughters, Nadine and Luisana.
Sammy Bartolo’s legacy lives on through his timeless music, which remains a cherished part of Malta's cultural heritage. His unique voice and his contributions to Maltese music, both as a soloist and with New Cuorey, have left an indelible mark on the island’s music scene.
Family Life
Sammy Bartolo married Evelyn Debono on January 31, 1970, and together they had four daughters: Claudette, Charlotte, Nadine, and Luisana. His daughters followed in his footsteps, often performing their father’s songs and later embarking on their own musical careers.
Sammy Bartolo’s life and career were dedicated to enriching Maltese music, and his contributions remain influential even after his passing. From his early beginnings in local contests to international tours and festival accolades, Bartolo’s impact on the Maltese music landscape is undeniable. His voice, along with the music of New Cuorey, continues to echo through the memories and hearts of many.
Bibliography
m3p.com. "Sammy Bartolo."
Times of Malta. “New Cuorey commemorative album.” December 22, 2017.
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