Raoul Casadei

Affectionately known as "the king of the smooth," Raoul Casadei has played an essential role in the evolution of dance music in Italy. Succeeding his uncle, Secundo Casadei, as leader of the first dance band in the central Italian region of Romagna, Casadei created the "l'orchestra spettacolo" and created the term "liscio" to describe his style of ballroom dance music. Although he retired from touring at the age of 80, he continued to supervise the band's artistic organization. Casadei oversaw Orchestra Casadei during their most fruitful period. Assuming the group's leadership...