Il Volo’s Ignazio Boschetto left fans around the world stunned after delivering a breathtaking performance of Radiohead’s iconic song “Creep” in a live duet with Italian singer Mara Sattei in May 2024. The unexpected pairing and bold song choice quickly caught attention, but it was Ignazio’s soaring high notes and emotional control that truly made the performance unforgettable.
Known for his powerful operatic voice, Ignazio proved once again that his talent goes far beyond classical crossover. In this stripped-down and haunting rendition, he brought a raw intensity to Creep while still maintaining elegance and balance. His high notes rose effortlessly, filling the space with emotion and drama, while never overpowering the song’s fragile mood. Many fans described the moment as “glorious,” saying his voice lifted the track to new heights.
Mara Sattei matched him beautifully, adding softness and restraint that grounded the performance. Her gentle tone blended smoothly with Ignazio’s strength, creating a contrast that worked perfectly for a song built on vulnerability and longing. Together, they turned the grunge-rock classic into something intimate and cinematic, ideal for a live concert setting. The duet felt less like a cover and more like a fresh interpretation, respectful of the original while clearly making it their own.
The reaction online was immediate and emotional. Comment sections filled with praise in multiple languages, with fans calling Ignazio a “musical genius,” “the best,” and “simply marvelous.” Many highlighted not only his vocal power, but also his personality and emotional depth, saying the song reflected who he is as an artist. Others praised Mara Sattei as well, calling the two voices “a spectacle” and “pure beauty.” While a few viewers questioned the stylistic choices, the overwhelming response celebrated the courage and artistry behind the performance.
Here’s what to know about “Creep” by Radiohead
Released in 1992 as the band’s first single off their debut album, Pablo Honey, “Creep” is one of the most-often covered songs on shows like The Voice and AGT. The song was initially viewed as yet another angsty grunge song in the same vein as popular songs from Nirvana and Beck.
After its release, music publication Melody Maker called the single “a stormer, a perfect monster of a malevolent pop song… like all the best pop, it gently strokes the nape of your neck before it digs the bread knife in. Aggression is rarely this delicious.”
Although now considered a masterpiece by fans, “Creep”—while recognizable due to the countless covers performed over the years—failed to make an impact on the U.S. Billboard charts. It reached only as high as number-34 on the Hot 100 in 1993, making it the band’s most successful song ever (at least as far as Billboard is concerned).
However, that hasn’t stopped countless artists from covering the song—with artists like Darci Lynne performing it in a way that not even Radiohead thought was possible.
