Famous Greek Musicians

Vangelis was a Greek musician, composer, and producer known for his work in electronic, progressive, ambient, and classical orchestral music. He began his career in the 1960s as a member of rock bands before gaining recognition for his solo work and film scores. Vangelis achieved commercial success in the 1980s and 1990s, winning an Academy Award for his score for "Chariots of Fire" and composing the official anthem for the 2002 FIFA World Cup. With a career spanning over 50 years and more than 50 albums, he is a key figure in electronic and film music history.

Nana Mouskouri is a renowned Greek singer and politician with a prolific career spanning over several decades. She has released over 200 albums in thirteen languages, showcasing her versatile talent. Mouskouri gained fame across Europe with hits like "The White Rose of Athens" and "Je chante avec toi Liberté". Her distinctive image, including black-rimmed glasses, contributed to her international stardom. Known for her multilingual abilities, she hosted her own TV show and represented Luxembourg at Eurovision. Mouskouri's philanthropic work includes serving as a UNICEF spokesperson and a term in the European Parliament. She has received numerous accolades for her outstanding musical achievements.

Míkis Theodorakis was a prolific Greek composer and lyricist known for over 1,000 works, including scores for iconic films like Zorba the Greek, Z, and Serpico. His "Mauthausen Trilogy" is considered a masterpiece about the Holocaust. He was a celebrated figure in Greek music, earning accolades such as BAFTA and Grammy nominations. Politically active, he had ties to the Communist Party of Greece but also collaborated across political divides to address national crises. He was a vocal advocate for leftist causes, human rights, and cultural issues throughout his career.

Iannis Xenakis was a Romanian-born Greek-French avant-garde composer, music theorist, architect, performance director, and engineer. He fled Greece in 1947 and became a naturalized citizen of France later. Xenakis revolutionized music by incorporating mathematical models, set theory, stochastic processes, and game theory. He integrated music with architecture, designing music for existing spaces and vice versa. Xenakis composed groundbreaking works like Metastaseis, Psappha, and Pléïades, and pioneered spatialization in music with works like Terretektorh. Additionally, he created electronic music using the UPIC system and designed multimedia performances known as polytopes. His book "Formalized Music" is a seminal work in music theory. Xenakis's architectural contributions include collaborations with Le Corbusier on projects like the priory of Sainte-Marie de La Tourette and the Philips Pavilion at Expo 58.

Yanni is a Greek composer, keyboardist, pianist, and music producer known for blending jazz, classical, soft rock, and world music to create predominantly instrumental works. He gained international recognition through concerts at historic monuments and videos broadcast on public television, with his breakthrough concert, Live at the Acropolis, becoming the second best-selling music concert video of all time. Yanni's albums have peaked at No. 1 on the Billboard "Top New Age Album" category, with two Grammy Award nominations. He popularized combining electronic music synthesizers with a full symphony orchestra, creating an eclectic fusion of ethnic sounds reflective of his "one world, one people" philosophy.

Kostas Karamitroudis, known professionally as Gus G, is a prominent Greek heavy metal guitarist. He is best recognized for his work with the band Firewind, where he showcases his exceptional guitar skills. Throughout his career, Gus G has also made significant contributions to other notable bands such as Mystic Prophecy, Nightrage, Arch Enemy, Dream Evil, and Ozzy Osbourne's band. His versatile talent and dynamic performances have solidified his reputation as a respected and influential figure in the heavy metal music scene.

Leonidas Kavakos is a renowned Greek violinist and conductor who has excelled in the world of classical music. With numerous international violin competition wins to his name, including prestigious competitions like the Sibelius and Paganini, he has established himself as a highly accomplished musician. Kavakos has also collaborated with esteemed orchestras and served as an artistic director for the Camerata Salzburg. His recordings on major record labels showcase his exceptional talent and artistry in the realm of classical music.

Helena Paparizou is a talented Greek singer, songwriter, and television personality who gained fame through her music career. She started as part of the duo Antique, transitioning to a successful solo career with chart-topping hits and multiple platinum albums. Paparizou represented Greece in the Eurovision Song Contest, winning with "My Number One". She also ventured into English-language music and television, becoming a judge on various shows. With numerous awards and accolades, she has solidified her status as a top Greek artist with international recognition.

Sakis Rouvas is a prominent Greek singer, actor, and businessman with a successful career spanning over three decades. He began his musical journey in 1991 and has released numerous chart-topping albums and singles. Rouvas is known for his versatile talents in music, film, television, theatre, and fashion. He has received numerous prestigious awards for his contributions to the entertainment industry, including Arion Music Awards, MAD Video Music Awards, and World Music Awards. His influence on Greek music and entertainment is significant, making him one of the country's most popular and respected artists.

Apostolos "Tolis" Voskopoulos was a legendary figure in modern Greek music, known for his impactful contributions to both the music and film industries. He was a versatile artist who excelled in music, film, and theatre, leaving a lasting impact on Greek entertainment culture. Voskopoulos gained fame for his theatrical performances, including the successful production "Oi Erastes tou Oneirou" alongside Zoe Laskari. With a diverse discography that showcased his musical talent, Voskopoulos solidified his status as a prominent and influential figure in Greek entertainment.

Haris Alexiou is a highly acclaimed Greek singer known for her commercial success since the 1970s. Renowned for collaborating with top Greek songwriters and composers, she has performed at prestigious musical venues worldwide and garnered numerous awards. With over thirty albums to her name, Alexiou has made a significant mark in the Greek music industry. Notably, she holds the distinction of being the first top-certified female artist in Greece in the phonographic era. Additionally, her work has resonated with audiences in Turkey, where her songs have been reinterpreted by various artists.

Mario Frangoulis is a Greek vocalist known for his refined tenor vocals. He has enjoyed a successful three-decade career as a critically and commercially acclaimed recording artist and vocal performer in Greece and neighboring countries. Frangoulis gained international prominence with hits like "Vincerò, Perderò" and his rendition of "Nights in White Satin". Discovered by Sir Cameron Mackintosh, he made his official theatre debut in Les Misérables and later performed in The Phantom of the Opera and Grease. Fluent in Italian, Spanish, English, French, and Greek, Frangoulis has recorded songs in all five languages.

Marinella is a renowned Greek singer with a career spanning several decades. Since starting her professional singing career in 1957, she has released 66 solo albums and collaborated on numerous albums with other musicians. Her impressive vocal range has earned her widespread acclaim and admiration in the music industry. Marinella's contributions to Greek music have solidified her status as a prominent figure, with her powerful voice captivating audiences and establishing her as a true icon in the realm of Greek music.

Dimitri Vegas, along with his brother Like Mike, make up the successful DJ duo known for their energetic performances and chart-topping hits. They have achieved international acclaim, with multiple top rankings on DJ Mag's Top 100 DJs list. Their extensive festival performances and DJ residencies in Ibiza showcase their widespread popularity and influence in the electronic music scene. Additionally, their record label, Smash the House, has been a platform for collaborations with various renowned artists and remixes of popular tracks, solidifying Dimitri Vegas's reputation as a prominent figure in the music industry.

Manos Hadjidakis was a prominent Greek composer and music theorist known for his contributions to Greek music. He was a key figure in the "Éntekhno" style and co-founded the Orchestra of Colours, dedicated to performing works by Greek composers. Hadjidakis's influence extended beyond music, impacting Greek culture through his writings and radio broadcasts. He achieved international recognition by winning an Academy Award for Best Original Song for "Never on Sunday" in 1960, although he declined the award due to concerns about the film's portrayal of Athens.

Nikos Skalkottas was a Greek composer known for his diverse musical output spanning atonal, twelve-tone, and tonal works. Throughout his career, he remained faithful to neo-classical ideals and integrated influences of jazz and Greek folk music into his compositions. Skalkottas was recognized for his innovative use of the twelve-note method and classical forms, producing symphonic works, chamber music, concertos, and vocal pieces. His music was not widely appreciated during his lifetime but gained recognition posthumously, thanks to the efforts of supporters and recordings released by BIS records.

George Dalaras is a highly acclaimed Greek singer and musician, recognized as a key figure in Greek musical culture. With a diverse repertoire spanning various genres and languages, he has collaborated with numerous artists both locally and internationally. Dalaras has released nearly 90 personal albums and contributed to over 140 others as a singer, musician, or producer. Renowned for his monumental concerts worldwide, he has performed at prestigious venues and with esteemed symphonic orchestras. His exceptional career has been honored with awards such as the "Kennedy" Award and the UNESCO Goodwill Ambassadorship.

Pantelis Pantelidis was a highly talented Greek singer, songwriter, and lyricist. He made a significant impact on the music industry with his soulful voice and emotional lyrics. Pantelidis was known for his unique style that blended traditional Greek music with contemporary sounds, creating a distinctive and memorable sound. His music resonated with audiences across generations, earning him a loyal fan base. Tragically, his promising career was cut short when he passed away in a car crash in 2016, leaving behind a legacy of beautiful music.

Giannis Poulopoulos was a renowned Greek singer-songwriter who achieved great success during the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s. He was known for his hits in Greece and is considered one of the top-selling Greek singers of all time. Poulopoulos began his career by impressing notable musicians like Mikis Theodorakis and Apostolos Kaldaras with his talent. He recorded numerous songs with various composers, performed in theatrical productions, and had his music featured in films, showcasing his versatility and popularity in the Greek music industry.

Phoebus, also known as Evangelos-Phoebus Tassopoulos, is a prominent Greek songwriter recognized for his work with artists such as Despina Vandi and Katy Garbi. He has composed successful albums for numerous musicians in Greece and Cyprus, with a significant number receiving certifications. With a career spanning the 1990s and 2000s, Phoebus has sold millions of records, establishing himself as one of the most accomplished Greek songwriters of his time. In 2009, he established The Spicy Effect record label, showcasing his talent and collaborating with various artists.

Dimitri Mitropoulos was a renowned Greek and American conductor, pianist, and composer. Throughout his professional life, he made significant contributions to the world of classical music, particularly in the realm of conducting. Mitropoulos was known for his passionate and intense interpretations of a wide range of musical works. He held prestigious positions with various orchestras and opera houses, leaving a lasting impact on the music world through his innovative performances and dedication to pushing artistic boundaries.

Sakis Tolis is a prominent Greek musician known for his role as the vocalist and rhythm guitarist of Rotting Christ. He has also contributed to the band as a producer and session keyboardist. Additionally, he has provided guest vocals and guitars for various music projects. Tolis has been involved in other bands, such as Thou Art Lord, showcasing his versatility in the black/death metal genre. He has collaborated with respected figures in the Greek extreme metal scene and has established himself as an accomplished artist with a signature guitar model. Furthermore, he co-authored a book detailing the history of Rotting Christ and released a solo album in 2022.

Timotheus of Miletus was a Greek musician and poet known for his innovations in music, particularly for adding strings to the lyre. His "new music" style was controversial, leading to disapproval from both Spartans and Athenians. He composed musical works with mythological and historical themes, and spent time at the court of Archelaus I of Macedon. Fragments of his poetry have been preserved, including a papyrus fragment of his work "Persians." In post-Classical literature, he is sometimes mistaken for another musician, Timotheus, who served in the court of Alexander the Great.

Angélique Ionatos is a renowned Greek singer, composer, and guitarist with a career spanning over four decades. She is known for her interpretations of classical and modern Greek texts, including works by Sappho. Ionatos has gained popularity for setting and singing these texts, thus bringing modern and classical Greek literature to a wider audience. Her contributions to music have solidified her reputation as a respected artist in the industry, showcasing her talent and dedication to preserving and promoting Greek cultural heritage through her music.

George Theodorakis, the son of renowned Greek composer Mikis Theodorakis, had a brief yet impactful professional career spanning two decades. He released 4 albums during this time and was the owner of SSR and Theta studios. While he didn't achieve the same level of success as his father, George gained recognition for his innovative use of synthesized sounds and departure from traditional Greek music. His work showcased a bold exploration of new musical territories and a willingness to experiment with unconventional approaches.

Eleni Karaindrou is a highly acclaimed Greek composer known for her work in scoring films directed by Theo Angelopoulos. With a career spanning several decades, Karaindrou has established herself as a prominent figure in the world of film music composition. Her evocative and atmospheric scores have garnered widespread recognition and praise, contributing significantly to the emotional depth and storytelling of Angelopoulos's films. Karaindrou's unique musical style, characterized by its haunting melodies and use of traditional Greek instruments, continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

Alkistis Protopsalti is a renowned Greek singer known for her powerful and emotional vocal performances. With a career spanning several decades, she has released numerous successful albums and singles, showcasing her versatility in various music genres including traditional Greek music, laiko, and modern pop. Protopsalti has performed in prestigious venues both in Greece and internationally, captivating audiences with her unique voice and stage presence. She is recognized as one of the most prominent and influential singers in Greek music history.

Andy Paul is a Greek-Cypriot singer and songwriter known for representing Cyprus in the Eurovision Song Contest 1984 with the song "Anna Maria Lena". He started his career by winning a talent contest with an Elvis Presley impersonation and went on to sing in various venues in the UK before gaining international success with his hit song "Anna Mari-Elena". Following his Eurovision appearance, Paul became a prominent figure in the Greek music industry, collaborating with renowned artists and achieving success with disco hits in Europe and Greece.

Alkinoos Ioannidis is a prominent figure in the Greek music industry, known for his talents as a composer, lyricist, singer, and orchestrator. With a career spanning decades, Ioannidis has produced a diverse range of music that reflects his unique style and artistic vision. He has garnered widespread acclaim for his emotive lyrics and soulful vocals, establishing himself as a respected artist both in Greece and internationally. His contributions to the music scene have solidified his reputation as a versatile and influential musician.

Kalomira Sarantis, known professionally as Kalomira, is an American singer who gained recognition in Greece after winning the talent show Fame Story in 2004. She has released four studio albums and represented Greece in the Eurovision Song Contest 2008. Kalomira has also hosted several television shows, showcasing her versatility in the entertainment industry. Her successful career spans singing, television hosting, and representing her country on an international stage, solidifying her reputation as a talented and multifaceted artist.

Marina Satti is a versatile Greek artist known for her work as a singer, songwriter, actress, and music producer. She is recognized for blending traditional Greek, Arab, and Balkan musical influences with contemporary urban elements, creating a unique and captivating sound. Satti gained international exposure by representing Greece in the Eurovision Song Contest 2024 with her song "Zari", which showcased her talent and creativity to a global audience. Through her innovative approach to music production and performance, Marina Satti continues to make a significant impact in the music industry.

Eugenia Manolidou is a prominent Greek classical composer, conductor, and entertainment television presenter. She has made significant contributions to the field of classical music, composing works that have been performed internationally. As a conductor, she has led various orchestras and ensembles, showcasing her talent and skill in interpreting musical pieces. In addition to her musical endeavors, Manolidou is also known for her work as a television presenter, bringing her passion for music and the arts to a wider audience through various programs and performances.

Olympia "Lia" Vissi is a Cypriot singer, songwriter, and composer known for her involvement in the Eurovision Song Contest. She participated in the contest multiple times, both as a supporting singer for other artists and as a solo performer representing Cyprus. Vissi also took part in the Greek national final for Eurovision and pursued a political career in 2006, running for a seat in the House of Representatives of Cyprus. Throughout her career, she showcased her talent as a versatile and accomplished artist.

Yannis Ploutarchos is a prominent Greek singer and songwriter known for his authentic laïko voice. He has established himself as one of the most popular laïko artists of his era. With a successful career spanning several years, Ploutarchos has released a total of 14 studio albums and one greatest hits album. His music resonates with audiences and his contributions to the laïko genre have solidified his position as a respected figure in the Greek music industry.

Marlain Angelidou is a talented Greek singer known for her involvement as a member of the Greek girl group Hi-5. She gained further recognition by representing Cyprus in the Eurovision Song Contest 1999 with the song "Tha 'Ne Erotas." With a versatile vocal range and stage presence, Angelidou has captivated audiences with her performances. Her dynamic presence in the music industry showcases her passion for music and dedication to her craft, solidifying her status as a respected artist in the Greek music scene.

Marios Tofi is a Greek Cypriot singer and songwriter known for his participation in the Junior Eurovision Song Contest in 2004. He represented Cyprus with the song "Onira," showcasing his musical talent on an international platform. Tofi's professional journey includes a focus on creating and performing music, with a particular emphasis on songwriting. Through his work in the music industry, he has gained recognition for his vocal abilities and contributions to the music scene, solidifying his status as a notable figure in the industry.

Panos Mouzourakis is a multi-talented Greek professional in the fields of singing, songwriting, acting, and artistry. He gained recognition through his involvement in popular Greek television series like Singles and 4. Mouzourakis has showcased his versatile skills as a singer, songwriter, actor, and artist, establishing himself as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry. His contributions to various creative endeavors have garnered him a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim, solidifying his reputation as a versatile and talented artist.

Nikos Karvelas is a prominent Greek songwriter, producer, and singer known for his successful collaborations with renowned artists such as Anna Vissi, Tolis Voskopoulos, and Sakis Rouvas. He has achieved significant commercial success as a producer, selling millions of records over the years. Karvelas has also released several personal studio albums that have garnered varying degrees of success. His contributions to the music industry have been recognized, with Alpha TV ranking him as the 13th top-certified composer in Greece during the phonographic era.

Constantinos Christoforou is a Greek-Cypriot singer known for his participation in the Eurovision Song Contest. He has represented Cyprus both as a solo singer and as part of the boy band One. With hits like "Mono Yia Mas," "Ela Ela (Come Baby)," and "Gimme," Constantinos has gained recognition for his powerful vocals and energetic performances. His career highlights include successful entries in the Eurovision Song Contest, showcasing his talent and passion for music on an international stage.

Dionysis Savvopoulos is a renowned Greek singer-songwriter known for his significant contributions to the music industry. With a successful career spanning several decades, he has released numerous albums and singles that have resonated with audiences both in Greece and internationally. Savvopoulos is celebrated for his unique musical style that combines elements of folk, rock, and traditional Greek music. His thought-provoking lyrics often touch upon social and political themes, making him a revered figure in the Greek music scene.