Mario Molinari (born February 21, 1994) was born in Genova, Liguria, Italy. He is an Italian rapper and actor. He is professionally known as Tedua. Emerging onto the music scene, he initially adopted the moniker Duate, before ultimately becoming known as Tedua. Tedua gained prominence as a member of the esteemed collective Wild Bandana, alongside talented artists such as Izi, Vaz Té, Sangue, and Ill Rave.
Tedua's early life was marked by transitions and diverse experiences. At the tender age of three, he was placed under the care of a foster family, albeit for a brief period. Subsequently, he spent several years living with his maternal grandmother in Milan. However, as a teenager, Tedua returned to Cogoleto, a town situated in the outskirts of Genoa. It was here that he grew up, forging relationships with individuals who would later form the core of the Wild Bandana collective. A fateful encounter occurred when Tedua, at the age of 13, crossed paths with Vaz Té at school. This fortuitous meeting paved the way for a subsequent introduction to Izi. Together, the trio, along with other talented individuals, embarked on their musical journey, adopting stage names as they delved deeper into their artistic endeavors. Initially, Molinari chose the name Incubo (Nightmare), but later transitioned to Duate.
Tedua's musical style primarily revolves around drill, a genre that has garnered attention and acclaim. However, critical reception regarding his artistic innovation has been somewhat polarized. Some critics laud his ability to push boundaries and bring forth fresh perspectives, while others express reservations. Nevertheless, drill music serves as a suitable conduit for Tedua's introspection, capturing his thoughts and life experiences through lyrical expression.
Tedua openly acknowledges the influence of Italian rapper Dargen D'Amico on his artistic vision. D'Amico's conceptualization of music as a stream of consciousness resonates deeply with Tedua, and this influence is evident in his work. Notably, Tedua's album "Mowgli" features a track titled "Acqua (malpensandoti)," where he pays homage to D'Amico by incorporating a chorus reminiscent of the latter's "Malpensandoti." Beyond D'Amico, Tedua draws inspiration from international artists such as Chief Keef, Fredo Santana, and Fedez, further enriching his creative palette.
Tedua's musical journey showcases his versatility and willingness to experiment with different styles and influences. As he continues to evolve as an artist, his compelling blend of drill music, conscious lyricism, and eclectic inspirations contributes to his unique and captivating presence within the Italian rap scene.
