Pathetic Facts

Greek musicians died before 35

Here are 16 famous musicians from Greece died before 35:

Georgios Mitsibonas

Georgios Mitsibonas (November 11, 1962 Tsaritsani-September 13, 1997 Giannouli) was a Greek personality.

He was a professional football player who played as a striker for several Greek clubs, including Panathinaikos, Olympiacos, and AEK Athens. Mitsibonas became known for his exceptional scoring ability and was considered one of the top Greek football players of his time.

During his career, he won several Greek Superleague titles and represented Greece in international competitions. He was also the top scorer of the Greek Superleague twice.

Tragically, Mitsibonas passed away in a car accident at the age of 34. He is still remembered as one of the greatest Greek football players of all time.

Mitsibonas was born in the small village of Tsaritsani in the regional unit of Trikala, Greece. He began his football career at a young age, playing for the local football team in his village before moving to Panathinaikos in 1982. With Panathinaikos, Mitsibonas won two Greek Superleague titles and reached the semi-finals of the UEFA Cup in 1984.

In 1988, Mitsibonas transferred to Olympiacos where he continued to excel as a striker, scoring 18 goals in his first season with the club. He would go on to win two more Greek Superleague titles with Olympiacos and was named the Greek Footballer of the Year in 1991. Mitsibonas also had a brief stint with AEK Athens before retiring from professional football in 1996.

Mitsibonas earned his first call-up to the Greece national football team in 1983 and went on to represent his country in 29 international matches, scoring 6 goals. He helped Greece qualify for the European Football Championship for the first time in their history in 1988 and was also a member of the Greek team that competed in the 1994 World Cup.

After retiring from football, Mitsibonas worked as a football coach, briefly managing the Greek club Lamia before his untimely death in a car accident in 1997. He was survived by his wife and two children. Mitsibonas is remembered as a gifted athlete and a humble person who cared deeply about his family and community.

Read more about Georgios Mitsibonas on Wikipedia »

Themis Rigas

Themis Rigas (April 5, 2015 Patras-January 13, 1984) was a Greek personality.

She was best known for her work as an actress, director, and playwright. Rigas began her career as an actress in the early 1950s, appearing in numerous films and stage productions in Greece. She later went on to become a successful director and playwright, producing a number of critically acclaimed productions throughout her career. Rigas was also known for her activism, particularly in the areas of women's rights and environmentalism. She was a lifelong advocate for social justice and equality, and her work had a lasting impact on Greek culture and society. Rigas passed away in 1984 at the age of 70, but her legacy as a trailblazing artist and activist lives on.

Rigas was born on April 5, 1915, in Patras. She grew up in a family of artists, and her father was a well-known stage actor. Rigas studied theater at the National Theatre School of Greece in Athens and began her acting career soon after graduating. Her breakthrough role came in the 1950 film "Theogonis," which earned her critical acclaim and established her as one of Greece's leading actresses.

In the 1960s, Rigas began to focus more on directing and writing plays. She wrote and directed several successful productions, including "The House of Bernarda Alba" and "Romeo and Juliet." Rigas' work often dealt with social and political issues, such as poverty, corruption, and the exploitation of women.

Outside of her artistic endeavors, Rigas was also active in various social causes. She was a leading figure in the women's rights movement in Greece and served as the president of the Greek Association for Women's Rights and Gender Equality. She was also a vocal advocate for environmentalism, and her efforts helped lead to the creation of several national parks in Greece.

Rigas remained a prominent figure in Greek culture until her death on January 13, 1984. She was honored with numerous awards and accolades for her contributions to theater and activism, including the Athens Academy Award for Best Actress and the Order of the Phoenix, one of Greece's highest honors. Today, she is remembered as a pioneer in both the artistic and social realms, and her legacy continues to inspire generations of Greeks.

Read more about Themis Rigas on Wikipedia »

Athos Dimoulas

Athos Dimoulas (April 5, 2015 Athens-April 5, 1985 Athens) was a Greek poet.

His real name was Anastasios Dimou and he was born in Athens, Greece. Dimoulas was considered one of the most important figures of the Greek literary scene of the 1930s. He published his first collection of poems, "Trisevgeni", at the age of 20 and gained critical acclaim for his use of intellectual and poetic language, as well as his innovative and experimental style. Dimoulas was influenced by surrealism and was part of the literary group "Nea Grammata" (New Letters), which sought to create a new form of Greek poetry. In addition to his poetry, Dimoulas was interested in philosophy and wrote essays on the subject. He was a controversial figure in his time due to his bohemian lifestyle and his open critique of Greek society and politics. Dimoulas committed suicide in 1985. Today, he is considered one of the most important and influential poets of modern Greek literature.

He was born into a wealthy family and attended prestigious schools in Athens and France. After completing his studies, Dimoulas worked as a journalist and translator for various publications. His literary career began with the publication of "Trisevgeni" in 1935, which was followed by several other collections of poems. His work was praised for its originality and creativity, which challenged the traditional standards of Greek literature.

Dimoulas was an active participant in the cultural and political scene of Greece, and he was known for his leftist views and activism. He openly criticized the government, the church, and the conservative society of Greece, which made him a target of censorship and persecution.

Despite his controversial opinions and lifestyle, Athos Dimoulas remains a beloved and respected figure in Greek literature. His poetry continues to inspire and influence Greek poets and readers, and his legacy lives on as a voice of the dissenting and progressive spirit of his time.

Read more about Athos Dimoulas on Wikipedia »

Argiris Kavidas

Argiris Kavidas (October 9, 1976 Greece-September 12, 2010 Athens) otherwise known as Argyris Kavvidas was a Greek actor and film director.

Kavidas studied acting at the National Theatre of Northern Greece in Thessaloniki before moving to Athens to pursue his career in film and television. He made his acting debut in the Greek television series "To Kokkino Domatio" in 2003, which was followed by appearances in numerous films and TV shows.

In addition to his work as an actor, Kavidas also wrote and directed several short films, including "Apo tin Anatoli" and "O Drakos tis Kefallonias". He was known for his talent, passion, and dedication to the art of filmmaking, and was regarded as a rising star in the Greek film industry.

Unfortunately, Kavidas' promising career was cut short when he suffered a heart attack at the age of 34. His untimely death was a shock to his family, friends, and fans, who remembered him for his talent, kindness, and warm personality. Despite the tragedy of his early passing, Kavidas left behind a legacy of memorable performances and inspiring films that continue to be admired by audiences in Greece and beyond.

Kavidas' contributions to the Greek film industry were widely recognized and celebrated. He received a Best Supporting Actor nomination at the Hellenic Film Academy Awards for his performance in the 2009 film "Loukoumades me Meli" (Honey Puffs), and his short film "O Drakos tis Kefallonias" was selected for the Short Film Corner at the 2010 Cannes Film Festival. Kavidas was also passionate about promoting independent filmmaking in Greece, and was a founding member of the Independent Film Association of Greece. After his death, the Argyris Kavvidas Foundation was established to honor his memory and support young filmmakers in Greece. Today, Kavidas is remembered as a talented actor and filmmaker whose potential was tragically cut short, but whose passion for cinema lives on through his lasting contributions to the Greek film industry.

He died in cardiac arrest.

Read more about Argiris Kavidas on Wikipedia »

Giorgos Gavriilidis

Giorgos Gavriilidis (April 5, 2015 Nikaia-July 23, 1982 Athens) was a Greek actor.

Giorgos Gavriilidis was a prolific actor who appeared in over 80 films throughout his career. He was well-known for his performances in classic Greek films such as "The Counterfeit Coin" and "Stella". Gavriilidis attended the National Theatre of Greece Drama School and began his acting career in the 1950s. He quickly became a sought-after actor and worked with some of the most prominent directors in Greece. His talent and versatility allowed him to play a wide range of roles, from comedic to dramatic. Gavriilidis was also a devoted husband and father of three children. His legacy continues to be celebrated today as one of Greece's most beloved actors.

In addition to his successful film career, Giorgos Gavriilidis also had a notable presence in Greek theater. He appeared in numerous productions at the National Theatre of Greece and other prominent theaters, showcasing his impressive acting range and stage presence. Gavriilidis also had a brief stint in politics, serving as a member of the Greek parliament from 1974 to 1977. He was known for his strong commitment to social justice and advocacy for the arts. Gavriilidis received many awards and accolades throughout his life for his contributions to Greek culture and the performing arts. His enduring legacy as an actor and advocate continues to inspire generations of artists and performers.

He died caused by pulmonary edema.

Read more about Giorgos Gavriilidis on Wikipedia »

Jacques Damala

Jacques Damala (January 15, 1855 Piraeus-August 18, 1889 Paris) a.k.a. Aristides Damala, Ambroise Aristide Damala, Damala, Ambroise Aristide, Aristides Damalas, Aριστεíδης Δαμαλάς, Aristidis Damalas or Aristide Damalas was a Greek actor.

Jacques Damala was known for his talent as an actor and was well-regarded in the Parisian theater scene during the late 19th century. He was particularly notable for his portrayal of the character Othello in William Shakespeare's play of the same name. In addition to his acting career, Damala was also a journalist and wrote for various Greek-language newspapers in Paris.

Despite his professional success, Damala struggled with personal demons and became addicted to drugs, which ultimately led to his downfall. He died in 1889 at the age of 34 as a result of an overdose of morphine. His death was a shock to the theater community and he was mourned by many of his contemporaries. Today, Damala is remembered as a talented actor who made a significant contribution to the world of theater.

Born in Piraeus, Greece, in 1855, Damala was educated in Athens and later moved to Paris to pursue his passion for acting. He began his career in the theater as an extra and worked his way up to becoming a leading actor. He quickly gained recognition for his talent and was admired for his performances in tragedies and romantic dramas.

In addition to his career in the theater, Damala was also known for his work as a journalist. During his time in Paris, he wrote for several Greek newspapers and magazines, including the influential La Revue de France.

Despite his success, Damala struggled with addiction, which ultimately led to his untimely demise. His addiction to morphine began after a serious injury sustained during a performance, which left him in constant pain. His dependence on the drug grew until it eventually took his life.

Today, Jacques Damala is remembered for his contributions to the field of acting and his tragic story serves as a reminder of the dangers of addiction.

He died as a result of drug overdose.

Read more about Jacques Damala on Wikipedia »

Athanasios Diakos

Athanasios Diakos (April 5, 1788 Athanasios Diakos, Greece-April 24, 1821 Thermopylae) also known as Athanasios Nikolaos Massavetas was a Greek soldier and military officer.

Athanasios Diakos played a significant role in the Greek War of Independence, serving as a leader in the fight against Ottoman rule. He fought in several significant battles, including the Battle of Alamana and the Battle of Gravia Inn. Despite facing overwhelming odds, he refused to surrender and was ultimately captured and sentenced to death by impalement. His bravery and sacrifice have made him a heroic figure in Greek history, and he is honored with monuments and memorials throughout the country. In addition to his military leadership, Diakos was also a skilled writer and poet, composing several famous works that have become part of Greek literature.

Diakos was born in the village of St. Athanasios in Central Greece. He came from a family of modest means and was forced to leave school at a young age to help support his family. Diakos joined the military at the age of 15 and quickly rose through the ranks due to his bravery and leadership skills.

During the Greek War of Independence, Diakos became a major figure in the resistance movement. He was known for his strategic thinking and passionate speeches, which inspired his fellow Greeks to fight for their freedom.

Despite his successes, Diakos' fate was sealed when he led a small force against a much larger Ottoman army at the Battle of Alamana. Although he fought valiantly, he and his men were eventually overwhelmed and captured. Despite offers to spare his life if he converted to Islam, Diakos refused and was ultimately sentenced to death by impalement.

Diakos' final moments were a symbol of his unwavering commitment to the Greek cause. As he was being led to his death, he reportedly said, "I would rather die like a free man than live like a slave." His sacrifice has become a symbol of the Greek struggle for independence and continues to inspire generations of Greeks to this day.

He died caused by impalement.

Read more about Athanasios Diakos on Wikipedia »

Pavlos Melas

Pavlos Melas (March 29, 1870 Marseille-October 13, 1904 Melas, Kastoria) was a Greek military officer. He had one child, Michael Melas.

Pavlos Melas was born in France where his family had fled due to the persecution of the Greek community in Ottoman-ruled Greece. He later returned to Greece and fought in the Greco-Turkish War of 1897. Melas also joined the Macedonian Struggle, a Greek guerrilla campaign against Ottoman rule in Macedonia. He organized and led a group of fighters and played a significant role in the liberation of several cities in the region.

Melas was killed in action during a battle against Ottoman forces in Kastoria in 1904. He is considered a hero in Greece and is remembered for his bravery and dedication to the Greek cause. The Greek army has named a military base after him, as well as a destroyer, and a number of streets and squares throughout Greece. Pavlos Melas' legacy continues to be celebrated in Greece and his contributions to the country's struggle for independence are remembered with great admiration.

In addition to his military contributions, Pavlos Melas was also a writer, publishing several articles and books on his experiences in the Macedonian Struggle. He also had a deep love for the Greek language and culture, and worked to promote them throughout his life. Melas was known for his courage, leadership skills, and strategic thinking, and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of Greek soldiers and patriots. His heroic death helped to galvanize support for the Greek cause and played a significant role in the eventual liberation of Macedonia from Ottoman rule. Today, Pavlos Melas is remembered as a national hero and a symbol of Greek patriotism and courage.

Read more about Pavlos Melas on Wikipedia »

Handan Sultan

Handan Sultan (April 5, 1574 Greece-November 26, 1605 Constantinople) also known as Handan Sultâna, Devletlu İsmetlu Handan, Aliyyetü'ş-Şân Hazretleri, Helena or Helen was a Greek personality. She had two children, Ahmed I and Mustafa I.

Handan Sultan was a consort of Sultan Mehmed III of the Ottoman Empire. She was originally a Greek Orthodox girl who was captured by the Ottomans during one of their raids. She was taken to the Harem and eventually caught the eye of Mehmed III who fell deeply in love with her. Upon becoming his consort, Handan Sultan quickly gained the admiration of the imperial court and the people of Constantinople.

She was widely known for her beauty, intelligence, and benevolence. She was said to have been well-educated and spoke several languages fluently. She was also known for her charitable works, often donating large sums of money to the poor and to religious institutions.

Handan Sultan's two sons went on to become Sultans themselves - Ahmed I and Mustafa I. Upon her death in 1605, she was buried in a mosque complex that she had helped build during her lifetime. Her legacy lives on as one of the most influential and respected women in Ottoman history.

During her time as a consort, Handan Sultan was instrumental in the creation of a cultural and artistic renaissance in the Ottoman Empire. She was a patron of the arts and actively supported the work of musicians, poets, and artists. In fact, she was a talented painter herself and would often take part in art exhibitions.

In addition to her artistic pursuits, Handan Sultan was also a skilled diplomat. She played an important role in the negotiations between the Ottoman Empire and the Safavid Empire of Iran. Her efforts helped to stabilise the region and establish peaceful relations between the two powers.

Handan Sultan was also a devoted mother and instilled in her children a strong sense of piety and devotion to Islam. Her sons, Ahmed and Mustafa, were deeply influenced by her teachings and went on to become great rulers in their own right.

To this day, Handan Sultan is revered in Turkey and beyond as a symbol of beauty, grace, and intelligence. She remains an inspiration to women around the world for her contributions to the arts, diplomacy, and philanthropy.

Read more about Handan Sultan on Wikipedia »

Koulis Stoligkas

Koulis Stoligkas (April 5, 2015 Drama-February 24, 1984 Athens) a.k.a. Ioannis Stoligkas, Ioannis Stoligas, Koulis Ioannis Stoligas or Koulis Ioannis Stoligkas was a Greek actor.

He was born in Drama in 1915 and began his acting career in Athens during the 1930s. One of his most notable performances was in the 1955 film "Stella," directed by Michael Cacoyannis, which was critically acclaimed both in Greece and internationally. Stoligkas appeared in over 80 films and numerous stage productions throughout his career, becoming one of the most respected and influential actors in Greek theatre and cinema history. He passed away in Athens in 1984 at the age of 69.

Apart from his acting career, Koulis Stoligkas was also a prominent leftist political figure in Greece. He actively participated in anti-fascist and anti-dictatorship movements during the country's turbulent political history. Stoligkas was briefly arrested by the Greek military junta in 1967, and subsequently went into exile in France until 1974, when democracy was restored in Greece. After his return, he continued to work in theatre and film, while also engaging in social activism and advocating for workers' rights. He was widely respected for his political and artistic contributions, and is remembered as an important figure in the cultural landscape of Greece.

Read more about Koulis Stoligkas on Wikipedia »

Odysseas Androutsos

Odysseas Androutsos (December 1, 1790 Ithaca-June 5, 1825 Athens) also known as Odysseus Androutsos was a Greek military officer.

He played a significant role in the Greek War of Independence against the Ottoman Empire. Androutsos is most famously known for leading the successful siege of the Acropolis in Athens in 1822, where he defeated a large Ottoman force despite being heavily outnumbered. He also played an important role in several other battles of the war, including the Battle of Dervenakia, where he led the Greek forces to victory against the Ottomans.

However, Androutsos' military and political career was also marked by controversy and conflict. He was involved in several disputes and power struggles with other Greek commanders, and was accused of using questionable tactics and methods in his military campaigns. Eventually, these disputes led to his downfall - in 1825 he was captured, imprisoned and later executed by his own compatriots, following a failed attempt to seize power in the newly formed Greek state. In spite of these controversial aspects of his legacy, Androutsos is still regarded as a hero by many Greeks, and his military leadership during the early years of the War of Independence is widely celebrated.

Androutsos was born on the island of Ithaca in 1790, which was then part of the Venetian Republic. He enlisted in the British Army as a teenager, where he gained experience that he would later put to use in the Greek War of Independence. After the outbreak of the revolution in 1821, Androutsos returned to Greece and quickly rose through the ranks of the military, becoming one of the most prominent commanders in the fight for independence.

In addition to his military exploits, Androutsos was also known for his leadership and organizational skills. He played a key role in the establishment of the Provisional Government of Greece, which was formed in 1822 to coordinate the efforts of the various rebel forces. He also helped to organize the first national assembly of Greece, which convened in 1822 to draft a constitution for the new state.

Despite his many accomplishments, Androutsos' career was marked by a series of controversies and personal feuds. He was known for his fierce temper and stubbornness, which often put him at odds with his fellow commanders. He was also accused of using excessive force and tactics that violated the rules of war, leading some to question his commitment to the cause of Greek independence.

Despite these criticisms, however, Androutsos remains an important figure in Greek history and a symbol of the struggle for independence. His famous victory at the Acropolis is seen as a turning point in the war, and his leadership and organizational skills helped to lay the foundation for the modern Greek state. Today, he is remembered as a brave and innovative military commander who played a key role in securing Greece's freedom from Ottoman rule.

Read more about Odysseas Androutsos on Wikipedia »

Kostas Karyotakis

Kostas Karyotakis (October 30, 1896 Tripoli-July 21, 1928 Preveza) also known as Karyotakis, Kostas or Κώστας Καρυωτάκης was a Greek poet.

Kostas Karyotakis is considered one of the most important poets of the 20th century in Greece. His poetry often dealt with themes of loneliness, melancholy, and despair. Karyotakis grew up in a wealthy family but faced many personal and financial struggles throughout his life. Despite this, he continued to write poetry and his works were eventually recognized and praised by critics. Karyotakis' death by suicide at the age of 32 is often attributed to his struggles with depression and inability to cope with his personal and financial difficulties. Nevertheless, his legacy lives on through his poignant and deeply emotional poetry, which remains a beloved part of Greek literature today.

Karyotakis was born in Tripoli, Greece but spent most of his life in Athens. He studied law at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens but soon abandoned his studies to focus on poetry. Karyotakis' first poetry collection, "The Pain of Men," was published in 1921 and was met with critical acclaim. He went on to publish two more collections, "Nights and Days" and "Elegies," before his untimely death.

Karyotakis' poetry was heavily influenced by the Symbolist and Decadent movements, as well as by the works of French poet Charles Baudelaire. His poems often featured dark and brooding imagery, exploring the complexities of the human experience with a deep sense of melancholy. Despite his short life and small body of work, Karyotakis is widely regarded as a master of Greek poetry and a significant figure in modern Greek literature. Today, his works continue to inspire and move readers around the world.

He died in suicide.

Read more about Kostas Karyotakis on Wikipedia »

Periklis Hristoforidis

Periklis Hristoforidis (April 5, 2015 Trabzon-September 30, 1983 Thessaloniki) also known as Periklis Christoforides was a Greek actor.

Periklis Hristoforidis was a prolific actor in the Greek film industry, having appeared in over 100 films and television series throughout his career. He was particularly renowned for his roles in popular Greek films such as "To Agistri" and "The Counterfeit Coin". Hristoforidis began his acting career in the early 1950s and quickly gained popularity for his charismatic on-screen presence and versatility as an actor. He was also a respected stage actor, having performed in several acclaimed productions at the National Theatre of Greece. In addition to his acting work, Hristoforidis was also a published author, having written collections of poetry and short stories. He was posthumously awarded the Golden Cross of the Order of the Phoenix by the Greek government for his contributions to Greek culture.

Hristoforidis was born in Trabzon, Turkey, and his family moved to Greece when he was a child. He studied acting at the National Theatre of Greece Drama School in Athens before beginning his career in film and television. Hristoforidis was known for his ability to play a range of characters, from comedic to dramatic, and his performances were praised by audiences and critics alike. Some of his most famous roles include the tough-talking nightclub manager in "To Agistri", the cunning thief in "The Counterfeit Coin", and the eccentric professor in "The Grocer from the Hill". Hristoforidis was also a dedicated humanitarian and social activist, and he supported many causes throughout his life. He was a champion for minority rights and worked tirelessly to promote equality and justice for all. His legacy lives on today, as he continues to be recognized as one of Greece's most beloved actors and cultural icons.

He died as a result of stroke.

Nikitas Platis

Nikitas Platis (April 5, 2015 Amorgos-November 14, 1984 Athens) also known as Nikos Platis was a Greek actor. He had one child, Sotirios Platis.

Nikitas Platis started his acting career in the early 1950s and quickly became one of the most popular actors in Greece. He starred in numerous film and theatre productions, showcasing his versatility and range as an actor. Platis earned critical acclaim for his performances in the films "The Ogre of Athens" (1956) and "The Counterfeit Coin" (1955), among others. In addition to his successful acting career, Platis was also active in politics and was a member of the Greek parliament. He passed away in 1984, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most esteemed actors in Greek history.

Throughout his career, Nikitas Platis was known for his ability to embody a variety of characters, from comedic to dramatic. He was particularly memorable for his portrayal of flawed, anti-hero characters that challenged traditional stereotypes. Platis also had a successful directorial career, directing several Greek films in the 1960s and 70s.

Outside of his work in entertainment, Platis was also dedicated to social and political causes. He was a member of the Communist Party of Greece and participated in various demonstrations and protests. In 1981, Platis was elected to the Greek Parliament as a member of the Communist Party, where he served until his death.

Platis' contributions to Greek cinema and politics have made him an influential figure in Greek culture. He is remembered for his talent, dedication, and commitment to social justice.

Read more about Nikitas Platis on Wikipedia »

Prodromos Meravidis

Prodromos Meravidis (April 5, 2015 Athens-August 12, 1981 Athens) was a Greek cinematographer and film editor.

He is known for his contributions to the Greek film industry during the mid-20th century. He started his career as a cinematographer in 1936, working for the General Secretariat for Newsreels. He later worked for the Ministry of Press and Tourism, where he helped produce several documentaries and short films. In the early 1940s, he started working as a cinematographer and film editor for major Greek film productions, including many popular comedies and dramas. Among his most notable films are "Hermes and Aphrodite" (1950), "The Road to Olympus" (1952), and "The Immigrant" (1954). He was also a founding member of the Greek Society of Cinematographers and was awarded several honors for his contributions to the film industry in Greece.

In addition to his work in the film industry, Prodromos Meravidis was also a prominent photographer. He specialized in capturing images of Greek landscapes, architecture, and people. Many of his photographs were published in popular magazines and newspapers of the time. He was also an active member of several photography clubs and organizations.

Meravidis was known for his innovative techniques in cinematography and film editing. His use of long takes, natural lighting, and unconventional camera angles helped to create a uniquely Greek cinematic style. He was one of the first Greek cinematographers to experiment with color film, introducing vivid and bold color palettes into his films.

Throughout his career, Meravidis collaborated with many notable Greek directors and actors, including Dimitris Horn and Aliki Vougiouklaki. His contributions to the Greek film industry helped to establish it as a significant cultural force in Greece and beyond.

After his death in 1981, the Greek Society of Cinematographers established an annual award in his honor, the "Prodromos Meravidis Award for Best Cinematography." Many of his films and photographs are still considered classics of Greek cinema and are celebrated for their artistic and cultural significance.

Read more about Prodromos Meravidis on Wikipedia »

Roza Eskenazi

Roza Eskenazi also known as Rosa Eskenasis, Roza Eskenazy, Rósa Eskenázi, Eskenazy, Roza, Róza Eskenázi, Roza Eskenazi, Eskenázi, Róza, Rosa Eskenazi, Sarah Skinazi, Rozalia Eskenazi or The Queen of Rebetiko was a Greek singer.

She was born in Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul) in 1895 or 1900 (her birthdate is uncertain) and was of Sephardic Jewish descent. At a young age, she moved to Thessaloniki, Greece, where she began to sing in local taverns and cafes. In the 1920s, she became a prominent figure in the rebetiko music scene, a genre associated with the urban working class and the Greek underworld.

Eskenazi's powerful and emotive voice, combined with her striking appearance and charismatic stage presence, made her one of the most beloved performers of her time. She recorded over 500 songs during her career, which spanned several decades and included performances in Greece, Turkey, Egypt, and the United States.

Eskenazi's music spoke to the struggles and joys of everyday life, addressing themes like love, loss, nostalgia, and social injustice. Her songs became anthems for Greek refugees and immigrants, who saw in her music a reflection of their own experiences of displacement and longing.

Eskenazi continued to perform and record music well into her 80s, and received numerous accolades for her contributions to Greek culture and music. She passed away in Athens in 1980, but her music remains a vital part of the Greek and global music canon.

Eskenazi's career spanned several decades and included performances in some of the most prestigious venues around the world, such as the Olympia in Paris and the Carnegie Hall in New York City. Despite her success, however, Eskenazi stayed true to her roots and never forgot her humble beginnings. She remained connected to her community, often performing in small taverns and cafes in her later years.

Eskenazi's influence on the Greek music scene cannot be overstated. Her music was instrumental in shaping the rebetiko genre, which continues to resonate with audiences today. In addition to her music, Eskenazi was also known for her philanthropic work, supporting various charitable causes throughout her life.

Despite facing discrimination as a Jewish woman in Greece and experiencing personal tragedies, including the loss of her son during World War II, Eskenazi remained resilient and continued to inspire others with her music and spirit. She remains an icon of Greek culture and a symbol of strength and perseverance.

Read more about Roza Eskenazi on Wikipedia »