Italian rockers Maneskin enjoy blurring gender stereotypes

Italy's rock band phenomenon Maneskin is enjoying global fame, boosted by its win in this year's Eurovision contest

ROME -- Several years ago they were four teenagers busking in the piazzas of Rome. These days, the members of the rock band Maneskin are basking in adoration after triumphing in the Eurovision Song Contest and consistently riding high in Spotify charts. With their androgynous outfits, in-your-face videos and what their lead singer calls “cathartic anger," they tell The Associated Press they're having a blast blurring stereotypes. Taking a break from their high-octane artistic routines, Maneskin members sat still on a couch in a Rome hotel on Tuesday evening for a half-hour to reflect on how they plan to use their new-found fame. “We feel free to wear whatever makes us feel right, and we are also trying to send a message about blurring all these kinds of stereotypes, between gender norms and stuff," said bassist Victoria De Angelis. “We think it's just fine to wear whatever makes you feel good with yourself.”