Sergio Endrigo, who represented Italy at the 1968 Eurovision Song Contest with Marianne, died at the age of 72. He suffered from long cancer. With the death of Sergio Endrigo, Italy loses one of its great names.

In 1968, Endrigo won the famous Italian San Remo festival with Canzone per te. The song was supposed to enter the Eurovision Song Contest, but the record was released to early. With Marianne he ended 7th. Sir Cliff Richard recorded the song in English ánd German.

In 1969 and 1970 Sergio Endrigo finished second and third at the San Remo Festival. Endrigo is considered as one of the most important singer-songwriters of Italy and was popular abroad as well.

The organization of a memorial concert has been taken intro consideration.