The craggy-voiced Italian singer, pianist and composer Paolo Conte was born in the northern city of Asti in 1937; a poet and painter as well as a musician, he first earned attention during the late '60s and early '70s as the creative force behind hits from Adriano Celentano and Patty Pravo. Conte began his solo career with a 1974 self-titled LP, with subsequent efforts like 1987's Aguaplano and 1990's Parole Scritte a Macchina enjoying considerable success throughout Europe. 1998's Paolo Conte -- a greatest-hits collection -- was his first U.S. release. ~ Jason Ankeny, All Music Guide