For those who appreciate genre-bending artistry and heartfelt storytelling, Fabio Cicala is a name you won’t want to miss. The Italian-born, UK-based musician has carved out a unique space with his evocative guitar work and introspective lyrics. In this Q&A interview, Fabio opens up about his creative journey, spiritual growth, and the deeply personal story behind his latest single, The Words I Didn’t Say.

Warm-Up

Q: How do you usually spend the day before releasing a new single?

Fabio: I carry on with the scheduled activities and spend my free time on my own, making sure everything is ready—then I take a deep breath!

Q: What came first for you — music or the guitar? How did you start your journey as a guitarist?

Fabio: Every child begins their journey with music by singing, or better, by crying, I guess! In my case, I started with the keyboard after visiting relatives in Rome for Christmas. My cousins had a keyboard, so I began to mess around with it. It was only as a teenager, when I discovered Jimi Hendrix, that I started playing guitar.

Q: If you had to describe your music in three words, what would they be?

Fabio: Minimal, refined, inspiring.

Q: Do you remember the moment you realized that music was your true path?

Fabio: It happened while I was playing weekly gigs at an Italian restaurant in Fleet, near London. I realized I enjoyed sharing my playing, and people enjoyed listening. I imagined myself performing at different venues and for diverse audiences.

Q: If you could travel back to any era of music history, which one would you choose and why?

Fabio: The end of the 60s, so I could go to Woodstock ‘69 and see some of my music icons live! In 2019, I listened to that concert broadcasted on a digital radio to celebrate its 50th anniversary—everything followed the exact same schedule as 50 years earlier. It felt like time traveling!

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About "The Words I Didn’t Say"

Q: "The Words I Didn’t Say" sounds like a deeply personal and emotional track. What’s the story behind this song?

Fabio: This track was born out of love at first sight for a girl I met on a film set. There was mutual fascination, but I was already in a relationship and didn’t pursue it. I even sabotaged our interactions! One day, while rehearsing George Michael’s “Careless Whisper,” my fingers and mind drifted elsewhere—I was thinking of her. That’s when I started writing this song, keeping the A minor tonality of “Careless Whisper.”

Q: You recorded this single at Abbey Road Studios. How did that experience influence the process?

Fabio: Walking into those legendary studios boosted my confidence and desire to create something unique. The vibes inspired several improvisations, some of which I kept in the final recordings.

Q: Will The Words I Didn’t Say be part of a larger project?

Fabio: Yes, it’s part of a 9-song project called Rude Awakening, which is about my personal and spiritual growth. It’s my sound diary, collecting my first personal sounds and original licks.

Q: What message or emotion do you hope to convey with this song?

Fabio: I want to offer a different perspective on love at first sight—especially when we’re already in a relationship. It can guide us to recognize what’s missing in our lives at that moment. Don’t make impulsive choices, especially when it comes to love. Instead, see those moments as opportunities for growth.

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Creative Process & Style

Q: You tune your guitar to A 432 Hz. Why is this tuning important to you?

Fabio: Spiritually, my birth date reduces to 432 in numerology! Musically, Jimi Hendrix and other spiritual artists inspired me. This tuning brings relaxation to listeners, unlike the 440 Hz standard, which is more suited to efficiency and productivity.

Q: Your style blends different genres and influences. How do you balance technical skill with emotional expression?

Fabio: I’m mostly self-taught, so I have an unprejudiced approach. My background in visual arts helps—music comes to me as emotions triggered by faces, stories, or colors. Technical skills help express those visual ideas in music.

Q: How have your Italian roots and life in the UK shaped your music?

Fabio: Naples, in particular, influenced me. It walks at a human pace, and conversations with strangers are common. London, on the other hand, is fast-paced but rich in cultural and musical diversity. I blend Mediterranean friendliness with London’s mix of traditions and futuristic trends.

Q: Do you have any pre-recording or pre-show rituals?

Fabio: I connect with my inner child by watching the cartoons and anime I loved as a kid, like Transformers and Saint Seiya.

Musical Influences & Career

Q: Who has had the biggest impact on your playing style?

Fabio: Jimi Hendrix for his shamanic way of making music, Joe Satriani for mixing simplicity with refinement, and Steve Vai for his technical mastery and spiritual approach.

Q: How has moving to London changed your perspective on music?

Fabio: It broadened my horizons. London’s diverse demographics exposed me to various music genres and traditions.

Q: How challenging is it to be an independent artist today?

Fabio: Wearing multiple hats and managing budgets are the main challenges. But these challenges give you overall control and help you connect with fans and other artists. Managing time and mastering various skills is key.

Q: Which live show has been the most memorable for you?

Fabio: It’s hard to pick just one. Every show enriches me in some way—whether it’s passersby who stop to listen or customers who end up booking me for private gigs.

Q: Is there a dream studio or place you’d love to record in?

Fabio: I’m fascinated by California—the Capitol Studio, Hans Zimmer’s Studio, and Sunset Sound. And, of course, Electric Lady Studio in NYC to honor Jimi Hendrix!

Future Plans

Q: What can we expect from you in 2025?

Fabio: I’m working with a vocal coach and writing lyrics. I’m also returning to my love for shred guitar. Expect to hear me exploring various musical realms!

Q: Do you have plans for a tour to promote The Words I Didn’t Say?

Fabio: No plans for a tour at the moment.

Q: Can you see yourself collaborating with other artists?

Fabio: I would have loved to collaborate with Tina Turner for her energy and artistic evolution. I’d also like to work with Santana and Teddy Swims for their rich sounds and persistence.

Q: How do you envision your ideal album?

Fabio: It would be about love and how it can heal the world, blending electric and acoustic instruments across different genres.

Q: What would you like to say to your listeners ahead of the new single?

Fabio: Listen with any mindset you want. I hope to inspire you to make original choices, follow your dreams, and never give up, no matter the obstacles.


Fabio’s journey is one of passion, spirituality, and dedication to his craft. His latest single, The Words I Didn’t Say, is now available. We encourage you to give it a listen, and don’t forget to follow Fabio for more heartfelt music and updates on his journey!

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