Tommy Cash’s Song Mocking Italian Stereotypes Has Divided Opinions

The 2025 Eurovision Song Contest is just around the corner, and one of the most talked-about entries is Estonia’s “Espresso Macchiato” by Tommy Cash. The song, which pokes fun at Italian stereotypes, has caused outrage in Italy, with some calling for its disqualification from the competition. However, others see it as a clever and entertaining way to showcase Cash’s unique style and artistic vision.

Cash, a self-proclaimed provocateur, has a history of pushing boundaries with his music. His song “Untz Untz,” which spoofed German techno culture, gained widespread attention and national support in Estonia. This experience convinced him that he had the necessary backing to enter the Eurovision competition, and he went on to win Estonia’s pre-selection contest, Eesti Laul, in February.

The controversy surrounding “Espresso Macchiato” is not surprising, given Cash’s reputation for satire and humor. However, some Italians have taken offense to the song’s depiction of their culture, with Codacons, the Italian association responsible for consumer rights, requesting its disqualification from the competition. Politician Marco Centinaio has also publicly criticized the song, saying that those who insult Italy should stay out of Eurovision.

Despite the backlash, Cash has received positive feedback from some Italians, including Lauri Bambus, the Estonian Ambassador to the Italian Republic. Bambus notes that Italians love catchy melodies and understand jokes, and that “Espresso Macchiato” can often be heard in Italian cafeterias, where people seem to enjoy it.

The song’s use of Italian stereotypes is not new, and Italian-American novelty songs from the war and post-war period, such as “Mambo Italiano,” have been poking fun at Italian culture for decades. However, Cash’s song is unique in that it targets another competing nation, which some see as a bold and provocative move.

Cash’s artistic vision is to showcase Estonia’s cultural independence and to show that a person from Estonia can do anything. He believes that his music can bring something original to the stage and impact the world. Whether or not “Espresso Macchiato” wins the competition, it has already made a lasting impression, and Cash’s name will be remembered on Monday.

The Eurovision Song Contest has a long history of pushing boundaries and showcasing cultural exchange, diplomacy, and national branding. As one musicologist noted, “The purpose of Eurovision is to unite Europe, and it’s educational, too, a way for audiences to learn about a country’s traditions and how its people express themselves today.” With Cash’s song, the competition is sure to be more provocative and entertaining than ever.