21 Most Famous Greek Female Singers in the World

Greece has produced a wealth of musical talent, with its female singers standing out for their unique voices, powerful performances, and ability to blend tradition with modernity. From the operatic grandeur of Maria Callas to the pop sensations of the modern era, these women have not only shaped the Greek music scene but have also made significant contributions to global music.

Their songs capture the essence of Greek culture, blending elements of love, struggle, and national pride with melodies that resonate across generations.

In this article, we explore the careers and legacies of the most famous Greek female singers, celebrating their enduring influence and the timeless appeal of their music.

21 Most Famous Female Singers from Greece You Need to Hear

These singers have made significant impacts in various genres, including traditional Greek music, pop, and opera, and are celebrated both in Greece and internationally.

Here’s a list of 21 famous Greek female singers, known for their contributions to music:

#1 Nana Mouskouri

Nana Mouskouri, born in 1934, is one of the best-selling female artists of all time, known for her angelic voice and her ability to sing in multiple languages. Mouskouri’s career began in Greece in the 1950s, but she quickly gained international fame with her unique voice and her versatility across genres, including jazz, pop, classical, and traditional Greek music. Her song “The White Rose of Athens” became a huge hit and solidified her status as an international star. Mouskouri’s multilingual repertoire and her trademark look—long black hair and signature glasses—made her an instantly recognizable figure in the global music scene.

Over her career, Mouskouri has sold over 300 million records worldwide, making her one of the most successful female singers in history. She has released albums in Greek, French, English, German, Spanish, and many other languages, endearing her to fans across the globe. Despite retiring from touring in 2008, Mouskouri’s influence on the music world remains strong, and her recordings continue to be cherished by generations of listeners.

#2 Maria Callas

Maria Callas, born in 1923, is one of the most celebrated opera singers of the 20th century, known for her extraordinary vocal range, dramatic intensity, and unparalleled technique. Callas was born in New York to Greek immigrant parents but moved to Greece as a child, where she began her formal training in opera. Her career took off in the 1940s and 1950s, when she became famous for her performances in roles such as Norma, Tosca, and Violetta. Callas’s ability to bring emotional depth to her characters, combined with her technical precision, earned her the nickname “La Divina.”

Callas’s influence on opera was profound, as she helped to revive the bel canto style and brought a new level of dramatic interpretation to her roles. Despite her relatively short career, her legacy endures, and she remains a benchmark for opera singers today. Her recordings are still considered some of the finest examples of operatic performance, and her impact on the art form is undeniable, making her one of the greatest voices in the history of music.

#3 Marinella

Marinella, born in 1938, is a legendary Greek singer who has been a dominant force in the Greek music industry for over six decades. Known for her powerful voice and dynamic stage presence, Marinella has been a prominent figure in the laïko (popular) music genre, which blends traditional Greek music with modern influences. She began her career in the late 1950s and quickly rose to fame with hits such as “Krasi, Thalassa kai T’ Agori Mou” and “Stalia Stalia,” which became anthems of Greek music.

Throughout her career, Marinella has collaborated with some of Greece’s most famous composers and lyricists, including Stelios Kazantzidis, with whom she formed a highly successful duo in the 1960s. Her ability to adapt to different musical styles has kept her relevant across generations, and she remains one of Greece’s most beloved performers. Marinella’s contribution to Greek music has been immense, and her influence on subsequent generations of Greek singers is profound.

#4 Haroula Alexiou

Haroula Alexiou, born in 1950, is one of Greece’s most renowned and influential singers, known for her deep, emotive voice and her ability to blend traditional Greek music with contemporary sounds. Alexiou began her career in the early 1970s and quickly became a leading figure in the Greek music scene with hits like “Dimitroula Mou” and “Odos Aristotelous.” Her music often incorporates elements of rebetiko, laïko, and folk music, making her a key figure in preserving and modernizing traditional Greek music.

Alexiou’s work has earned her numerous awards and accolades, both in Greece and internationally, and she has performed in prestigious venues around the world. Her lyrics often deal with themes of love, loss, and social issues, resonating deeply with audiences. With a career spanning over four decades, Alexiou remains a vital and respected artist in Greek music, and her influence can be seen in the work of many younger Greek musicians.

#5 Vicky Leandros

Vicky Leandros, born in 1949, is an internationally acclaimed Greek singer who gained widespread fame after winning the Eurovision Song Contest in 1972 with the song “Après Toi,” representing Luxembourg. Leandros’s victory catapulted her to international stardom, and she went on to enjoy a successful career across Europe, singing in multiple languages, including Greek, French, English, and German. Her hits such as “L’amour Est Bleu” and “Ich Hab’ Die Liebe Geseh’n” solidified her reputation as a versatile and talented performer.

Leandros’s ability to cross cultural and linguistic barriers with her music has made her one of the most successful Greek artists internationally. Over her career, she has sold millions of records worldwide and continues to perform and record new music. Her enduring appeal and ability to connect with audiences of different backgrounds have earned her a lasting place in the international music scene.

#6 Anna Vissi

Anna Vissi, born in 1957, is one of Greece’s most successful and enduring pop stars, known for her powerful voice, energetic performances, and ability to reinvent herself over the decades. Vissi’s career began in the 1970s, and she quickly became a household name with hits like “As Kanoume Apopse Mian Arhi” and “Autostop.” Her music spans various genres, including pop, rock, and laïko, and she has remained a dominant figure in the Greek music industry for over 40 years.

Vissi’s success extends beyond Greece, as she has also enjoyed popularity in Cyprus, Europe, and the United States. She represented Greece in the Eurovision Song Contest in 1980 and 2006, further solidifying her status as a national icon. Known for her bold fashion choices and dynamic stage presence, Vissi continues to be a trailblazer in Greek music, and her influence on the pop scene is undeniable.

#7 Eleftheria Arvanitaki

Eleftheria Arvanitaki, born in 1957, is a prominent Greek singer known for her unique voice and her ability to blend traditional Greek music with modern sounds. Arvanitaki began her career in the early 1980s as a member of the rebetiko revival band Opisthodromiki Kompania before launching a successful solo career. Her music incorporates elements of rebetiko, laïko, and contemporary pop, making her one of the most versatile artists in Greece. Songs like “Meno Ektos” and “Dynata Dynata” have become anthems of modern Greek music, showcasing her ability to connect with a wide audience.

Arvanitaki’s international appeal has led to collaborations with renowned artists and performances at prestigious venues around the world. Her albums have been released in multiple languages, further expanding her reach. With a career spanning over three decades, Arvanitaki remains a beloved figure in Greek music, known for her emotive performances and her contributions to the evolution of Greek music.

#8 Despina Vandi

Despina Vandi, born in 1969, is a Greek pop and laïko singer who rose to fame in the late 1990s and early 2000s with a string of hit albums and singles. Vandi’s music blends traditional Greek sounds with modern pop and dance elements, making her one of the most successful and influential artists in contemporary Greek music. Her 2001 album Gia became a massive success, producing several hit singles like “Gia” and “Opa Opa,” and establishing her as a leading figure in the Greek music industry.

Vandi has won numerous awards throughout her career and has achieved international success, particularly in the Greek diaspora. Her energetic stage presence and ability to adapt to different musical styles have kept her at the forefront of the Greek pop scene. Vandi’s influence extends beyond music, as she has also appeared in television and film, further solidifying her status as a multifaceted entertainer and a key figure in Greek popular culture.

#9 Glykeria

Glykeria, born in 1953, is a renowned Greek singer known for her soulful voice and her deep connection to traditional Greek music. Glykeria’s career began in the 1970s, and she quickly gained a reputation for her emotive interpretations of laïko and rebetiko songs. Her hits, such as “Ta Mavra Matia Sou” and “I Kardia Mou,” have made her one of the most beloved singers in Greece, and she is often referred to as the “Voice of Greece.” Glykeria’s ability to convey deep emotion through her singing has endeared her to audiences both in Greece and abroad.

Throughout her career, Glykeria has collaborated with many of Greece’s top composers and musicians, further cementing her status as a leading figure in Greek music. Her international tours and recordings have introduced Greek music to audiences around the world, making her a cultural ambassador for Greece. Glykeria’s dedication to preserving and promoting Greek musical traditions has made her a key figure in the country’s cultural heritage.

#10 Alkistis Protopsalti

Alkistis Protopsalti, born in 1954, is a Greek singer known for her powerful voice, dynamic stage presence, and wide-ranging musical repertoire. Protopsalti began her career in the mid-1970s and quickly established herself as one of Greece’s leading vocalists. Her music spans multiple genres, including pop, laïko, and world music, and she is known for her ability to convey intense emotion through her singing. Songs like “Dinata Dinata” and “Ola Afta Pou Fovamai” have become iconic in Greek music, showcasing her versatility and artistry.

Protopsalti’s career has been marked by numerous collaborations with prominent Greek composers and musicians, and she has performed in prestigious venues around the world. Her commitment to excellence in her performances and recordings has earned her a loyal fanbase and critical acclaim. Protopsalti’s influence on Greek music is significant, and she continues to be a vital and innovative force in the industry, inspiring new generations of artists.

#11 Eleni Foureira

Eleni Foureira, born in 1987, is a Greek pop singer and dancer who gained widespread recognition after representing Cyprus in the 2018 Eurovision Song Contest with the song “Fuego,” where she finished in second place. Foureira’s electrifying performance and the song’s catchy, up-tempo beat made her an instant sensation across Europe. Before her Eurovision success, Foureira had already established herself as a prominent pop star in Greece with hits like “Reggaeton” and “Ti Koitas.”

Foureira is known for her energetic stage presence, charismatic performances, and ability to blend pop, dance, and Latin influences in her music. Her success in Eurovision opened up international opportunities, and she has since expanded her career across Europe, releasing music in multiple languages. Foureira’s influence in the Greek and international pop scene continues to grow, and she is celebrated as one of the most successful and influential pop artists in Greece today.

#12 Natassa Theodoridou

Natassa Theodoridou, born in 1970, is a Greek laïko singer who has become one of the most successful and respected artists in the genre. Theodoridou’s powerful voice and ability to convey deep emotion through her singing have made her a favorite among fans of Greek music. Her debut album, released in 1997, was an instant success, and she quickly established herself as a leading figure in laïko music with hits like “Dikaioma Mou” and “Tha Miliso Me T’Asteria.” Theodoridou’s music often deals with themes of love, heartache, and personal struggle, resonating deeply with her audience.

Throughout her career, Theodoridou has collaborated with some of Greece’s top composers and lyricists, and her albums have consistently topped the charts. Her influence on the laïko genre is significant, and she continues to be one of the most respected and admired singers in Greece. Theodoridou’s dedication to her craft and her ability to connect with her audience through her music have earned her a lasting place in Greek music history.

#13 Tamta

Tamta, born in 1981 in Georgia, is a Greek pop singer who has gained fame for her unique style, powerful voice, and dynamic performances. Tamta moved to Greece in the late 1990s and quickly established herself as a rising star in the Greek music scene with her participation in the talent show Super Idol. Her debut album, released in 2006, included hits like “Ftes” and “Den Telionei Etsi I Agapi,” which showcased her versatility as a pop artist. Tamta’s music blends elements of pop, dance, and R&B, making her one of the most modern and innovative artists in Greece.

Tamta’s international career took off after she represented Cyprus in the Eurovision Song Contest in 2019 with the song “Replay,” which became a hit across Europe. Known for her fashion-forward style and energetic performances, Tamta continues to push the boundaries of Greek pop music. Her influence extends beyond Greece, as she has become a prominent figure in the European pop scene, representing a new wave of Greek pop artists.

#14 Katy Garbi

Katy Garbi, born in 1961, is a prominent Greek singer known for her powerful voice, emotional performances, and extensive catalog of hits. Garbi’s career began in the late 1980s, and she quickly became one of the most popular singers in Greece with hits like “Esena Mono” and “To Kati.” Her music blends traditional Greek laïko with modern pop elements, making her one of the most successful and influential artists in the genre. Garbi’s ability to convey deep emotion through her music has endeared her to fans both in Greece and abroad.

Throughout her career, Garbi has released numerous platinum and multi-platinum albums, solidifying her status as one of the leading figures in Greek music. Her contributions to the laïko genre have been significant, and she has collaborated with many of Greece’s top composers and lyricists. Garbi’s influence on Greek pop and laïko music is undeniable, and she continues to be a beloved figure in the Greek music industry.

#15 Rita Sakellariou

Rita Sakellariou, born in 1934, was a beloved Greek singer known for her deep, soulful voice and her ability to convey intense emotion through her music. Sakellariou’s career spanned several decades, during which she became one of the most popular singers in the laïko genre. Her hits, such as “Ena Spiti Kaigetai” and “I Kakomoiri,” resonated deeply with Greek audiences, earning her a reputation as one of the country’s most talented vocalists. Sakellariou was known for her powerful stage presence and her ability to connect with her audience on a personal level.

Her music often dealt with themes of love, heartbreak, and resilience, reflecting the experiences of ordinary people. Sakellariou’s influence on Greek music was significant, and her songs continue to be cherished by fans even after her death in 1999. Her legacy as a singer who brought passion and authenticity to her performances remains strong, and she is remembered as one of the great voices of Greek laïko music.

#16 Eleni Vitali

Eleni Vitali, born in 1954, is a highly respected Greek singer and songwriter known for her contributions to both traditional and contemporary Greek music. Vitali began her career in the 1970s, performing rebetiko and laïko music, and quickly established herself as one of the most talented vocalists of her generation. Her collaborations with some of Greece’s most renowned composers, including Stavros Kouyioumtzis and Christos Nikolopoulos, resulted in a series of hits, such as “To Tragoúdi tis Evdokías” and “Min Toulis M’ Anevas.”

Vitali’s music is known for its emotional depth and its ability to blend traditional Greek sounds with modern influences. Her unique voice, characterized by its warmth and expressiveness, has made her a beloved figure in Greek music. Vitali’s career has been marked by a commitment to artistic integrity and a deep connection to her cultural roots, making her one of the most respected artists in Greece today. She continues to perform and record, maintaining her status as a significant force in Greek music.

#17 Sofia Vembo

Sofia Vembo, born in 1910, was a legendary Greek singer and actress, widely known as the “Singer of Victory” due to her contributions during World War II. Vembo became a national icon in Greece for her patriotic songs that inspired the Greek people during the war, particularly “Children of Greece” (Παιδιά της Ελλάδος παιδιά), which became an anthem of resistance. Her powerful voice and emotive delivery made her one of the most popular and influential figures in Greek music and culture.

Vembo’s career extended beyond her wartime contributions; she was also a successful actress and performer in the theater, known for her versatility and charisma. Her influence on Greek music and her role in boosting the morale of the Greek people during a critical period in the country’s history have cemented her legacy as one of Greece’s greatest cultural icons. Vembo passed away in 1978, but her impact on Greek music and society continues to be felt to this day.

#18 Savina Yannatou

Savina Yannatou, born in 1959, is a Greek singer known for her versatility and her ability to perform a wide range of musical styles, from traditional Greek music to contemporary and avant-garde compositions. Yannatou began her career in the early 1980s, and she quickly gained recognition for her ethereal voice and her ability to interpret a diverse array of musical genres. Her work with the ensemble Primavera en Salonico, which blends traditional Mediterranean and Balkan music with modern elements, has been particularly acclaimed, showcasing her ability to transcend cultural and musical boundaries.

Yannatou’s music often explores themes of identity, memory, and the human experience, and she is known for her innovative and experimental approach to performance. Her collaborations with composers and musicians from around the world have further expanded her artistic reach, making her one of the most respected and internationally recognized Greek artists. Yannatou’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of music while staying true to her roots has earned her a unique place in the world of contemporary music.

#19 Tzeni Vanou

Tzeni Vanou, born in 1939, was a Greek singer known for her romantic ballads and her smooth, expressive voice. Vanou rose to fame in the 1960s and 1970s with a series of hit songs that made her one of Greece’s most beloved vocalists. Her music, which often dealt with themes of love and heartbreak, resonated deeply with audiences, and songs like “Ekeinos,” “Apopse Se Thelo,” and “Fere Mou Ena Mantili” became classics in the Greek music repertoire. Vanou’s ability to convey deep emotion through her singing made her a favorite among fans of romantic laïko music.

Throughout her career, Vanou worked with some of Greece’s most prominent composers and lyricists, further cementing her status as a leading figure in Greek music. Her elegant and heartfelt performances earned her a loyal following, and she continued to perform and record music until her death in 2014. Vanou’s legacy as a singer who brought passion and sensitivity to her music remains strong, and she is remembered as one of the great voices of her generation.

#20 Antique (Helena Paparizou)

Antique was a Greek-Swedish duo consisting of Helena Paparizou and Nikos Panagiotidis, known for their fusion of modern pop with traditional Greek music. The duo gained widespread popularity in the late 1990s and early 2000s with hits like “Opa Opa,” “Dinata Dinata,” and “Moro Mou,” which became anthems of Greek pop music. Their success was marked by their participation in the Eurovision Song Contest in 2001, where they finished in third place with the song “(I Would) Die for You,” bringing them international recognition.

After Antique disbanded, Helena Paparizou went on to have a successful solo career, representing Greece in Eurovision again in 2005 and winning the contest with the song “My Number One.” Paparizou’s solo career has been marked by a series of hit albums and singles, making her one of the most successful and influential Greek pop artists of her generation. Her ability to blend pop with traditional Greek elements has continued to define her music, and she remains a prominent figure in the Greek and international music scenes.

#21 Angela Dimitriou

Angela Dimitriou, born in 1954, is a Greek singer known for her powerful voice and her contributions to the laïko genre. Dimitriou began her career in the late 1970s and quickly rose to fame with hits like “Fotia Sta Savvatovrada” and “Ta Kaneis Ola.” Her music, which blends traditional Greek sounds with modern pop influences, has made her one of the most successful and enduring artists in Greek music. Dimitriou’s dynamic stage presence and her ability to convey emotion through her singing have earned her a loyal fanbase and critical acclaim.

Throughout her career, Dimitriou has released numerous albums that have achieved significant commercial success, and she is known for her collaborations with some of Greece’s most prominent composers and lyricists. Her influence on the laïko genre is substantial, and she continues to be a leading figure in Greek music, with a career that spans over four decades. Dimitriou’s commitment to her craft and her ability to adapt to changing musical trends have ensured her place as one of Greece’s most respected and beloved singers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How did Nana Mouskouri achieve international success as a Greek singer?

Nana Mouskouri achieved international success through her ability to sing in multiple languages and her versatility across genres such as jazz, pop, and classical music. Her global appeal led to over 300 million records sold, making her one of the best-selling female artists of all time.

What is Maria Callas known for in the world of music?

Maria Callas is renowned for her extraordinary operatic talent, with a vocal range and dramatic intensity that made her one of the most celebrated opera singers of the 20th century. Her performances in roles like Norma and Tosca are legendary and continue to influence opera today.

What impact did Sofia Vembo have on Greek culture during World War II?

Sofia Vembo became a national icon in Greece during World War II for her patriotic songs that boosted the morale of the Greek people. Her music earned her the title “Singer of Victory,” and she remains a symbol of resilience and national pride.

How has Helena Paparizou influenced modern Greek pop music?

Helena Paparizou, initially part of the duo Antique, gained international fame after winning the Eurovision Song Contest in 2005. Her ability to blend pop with traditional Greek elements has made her one of the most successful Greek pop artists of her generation.