Vasco Rossi (born February 7, 1952 in Zocca, Italy) is one of the best-known musicians and songwriters in Italy. His nickname is Blasco. During his 25-year career, he has published 21 albums (including live and collection discs) and has written some 130 songs, as well as lyrics for other artists. He calls himself a "provoca(u)tore" (an Italian neologism for "provoking author") as throughout his career he has been regularly criticized over his choice of lifestyle and the lyrics in his songs.