Madame to receive Woman of the Year at Billboard Italia Women in Music 2026

Billboard Italia has named the honourees for its 2026 Women in Music evening, which takes place on Tuesday, 10 November at the Vesta Fiori Chiari venue in Milan. The event is the third Italian edition of the awards, and this year's concept is titled "The Voices Edition".

Stand-up comedian and writer Giorgia Fumo will host the evening. The top prize, Woman of the Year, goes to Madame, who returned in 2026 with the album Disincanto and a new run of live shows, according to Billboard Italia.

The night's other awards cover a wide range of jobs in the music business, from the stage to the studio and behind the scenes. Loredana Bertè will receive the Icon award. Ditonellapiaga will take the Powerhouse award, and Elisa will receive the Impact award.

Writing and DJing are also recognised. Francesca Michielin will receive Songwriter of the Year, the prize for the person who writes the songs. Adiel will receive DJ of the Year, for work behind the decks.

Group and newcomer prizes follow. Bambole di Pezza will receive Group of the Year, powered by Morellato, the jewellery and watch brand that sponsors the category. Angelica Bove will receive the Rising Star award.

The executive side of the industry is represented too. Eleonora Rubini will receive Executive of the Year, which recognises work in the business side of music rather than on stage. The collective Canta Fino a 10 will receive Spotify's EQUAL Award.

For readers new to the awards, Billboard Women in Music is a yearly event that honours women working across music. Each category names one person, group or collective, so the list reads as a snapshot of who is currently working in Italian music. The evening will show how the honourees are celebrated on the night.

The full list, with its categories, is set out on the Billboard Italia site.