21 Greatest Famous Greek Singers Who Changed Music

Greece has produced some of the most iconic and influential singers in the world, whose music transcends borders and resonates with audiences globally. From the operatic brilliance of Maria Callas to the pop stardom of Elena Paparizou, these artists have left an indelible mark on the music industry.

Their contributions span a wide range of genres, from traditional Greek folk music to contemporary pop and opera, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Greece.

This article explores the careers of these legendary Greek singers, highlighting their impact on both Greek and international music scenes.

21 World Famous Singers from Greece Who Shaped Music History

These singers represent the rich musical heritage of Greece, contributing to various genres and influencing audiences both within Greece and around the world.

Here’s a list of 21 famous Greek singers, spanning various genres and eras:

#1 Nana Mouskouri

Nana Mouskouri is one of the most successful and internationally recognized Greek singers, known for her angelic voice and a repertoire that spans multiple genres, including pop, jazz, classical, and folk music. Born in 1934 in Chania, Crete, Mouskouri began her career in the 1950s and quickly gained fame for her unique voice, characterized by its purity and versatility. She achieved international stardom in the 1960s and 1970s, performing in multiple languages, including Greek, French, English, German, and Spanish. Her signature look, with her trademark black-rimmed glasses, became iconic as she captivated audiences around the world.

Mouskouri’s most notable works include songs like “White Rose of Athens,” which became a massive hit, and her renditions of classic songs such as “Ave Maria” and “Plaisir d’amour.” Over her six-decade career, she has sold over 300 million records, making her one of the best-selling female artists of all time. Nana Mouskouri’s contributions to music are immense, and her influence extends far beyond the borders of Greece, making her a true global music icon.

#2 Maria Callas

Maria Callas, born in New York City to Greek parents in 1923, is one of the most renowned opera singers in history, often hailed as the “Divine Diva.” Known for her incredible vocal range, dramatic intensity, and ability to convey deep emotion, Callas revolutionized the world of opera. She began her career in the 1940s, rising to international fame in the 1950s and 1960s. Her interpretations of roles in operas like Norma, La Traviata, and Tosca are considered definitive, and her performances were celebrated for their theatricality and passion.

Despite her relatively short career, which was marred by personal struggles and vocal issues, Callas left an indelible mark on the opera world. Her recordings continue to be revered, and she is often cited as one of the greatest sopranos of all time. Maria Callas’s legacy is not only in her vocal brilliance but also in her ability to bring a new level of artistry and drama to the operatic stage, making her a towering figure in the history of classical music.

#3 George Dalaras

George Dalaras is one of Greece’s most beloved and influential contemporary musicians, known for his contributions to Greek music, particularly in the genres of rebetiko, laïko, and entechno. Born in 1949 in Piraeus, Dalaras began his music career in the late 1960s, and by the 1970s, he had established himself as a major figure in Greek music. His deep, expressive voice and ability to blend traditional Greek sounds with modern influences have made him a favorite among audiences in Greece and abroad.

Dalaras is not only a prolific singer but also a passionate advocate for social and political causes, often using his music to raise awareness about issues like human rights and social justice. His collaborations with other prominent Greek composers, such as Mikis Theodorakis and Manos Loïzos, have produced some of the most iconic songs in Greek music. Over his long career, George Dalaras has sold millions of albums and continues to perform, remaining a vital force in Greek cultural life.

#4 Haris Alexiou

Haris Alexiou is one of Greece’s most iconic and influential singers, known for her powerful voice and emotional performances. Born in Thebes in 1950, Alexiou began her career in the early 1970s and quickly became a leading figure in Greek music, particularly in the genres of laïko and rebetiko. Her collaboration with some of Greece’s most prominent composers, including Manos Loïzos, Mikis Theodorakis, and Stavros Kouyioumtzis, resulted in numerous hit songs that have become classics in Greek music.

Alexiou’s ability to convey deep emotion through her singing, combined with her versatile voice, has made her a beloved figure in Greece and beyond. Her albums, such as 12 Laika Tragoudia and Ta Tragoudia tis Haroulas, have sold millions of copies, and she has received numerous awards for her contributions to music. Haris Alexiou’s influence extends beyond her music, as she has also been a role model for younger generations of Greek artists, solidifying her legacy as one of Greece’s greatest singers.

#5 Yanni

Yanni, born Yiannis Chryssomallis in Kalamata, Greece, in 1954, is an internationally acclaimed composer and keyboardist known for his instrumental music that blends classical, jazz, and world music influences. Yanni moved to the United States in the 1970s to study at the University of Minnesota, where he began his music career. His rise to fame began in the 1980s and 1990s, particularly with his groundbreaking live performances at historical sites like the Acropolis in Athens and the Taj Mahal in India, which were broadcast globally and reached millions of viewers.

Yanni’s music is characterized by its lush, cinematic soundscapes and his use of a wide range of instruments and influences from various cultures. His albums, such as Dare to Dream and In My Time, have topped the charts, and he has sold millions of records worldwide. Yanni’s ability to connect with audiences around the world through his emotive and expansive music has made him one of the most successful and enduring artists in the contemporary instrumental genre.

#6 Mikis Theodorakis

Mikis Theodorakis, born in Chios, Greece, in 1925, was a legendary composer, conductor, and political activist, known for his significant contributions to Greek music and culture. Theodorakis is perhaps best known for composing the score for the 1964 film Zorba the Greek, which includes the iconic “Sirtaki” dance, a piece of music that has become synonymous with Greek culture. Throughout his career, Theodorakis composed a vast array of music, including symphonies, operas, ballets, and songs, many of which are deeply rooted in Greek folk traditions.

Theodorakis was also a prominent political figure, using his music to express his views and fight for social justice and human rights. His works often reflect the struggles and aspirations of the Greek people, particularly during times of political turmoil. Despite facing imprisonment and exile during Greece’s military dictatorship, Theodorakis continued to compose and advocate for change. His legacy as a composer and activist is profound, making him one of the most important cultural figures in modern Greek history.

#7 Demis Roussos

Demis Roussos, born in Alexandria, Egypt, to Greek parents in 1946, was an internationally acclaimed pop singer known for his distinctive voice and unique blend of pop, rock, and Greek folk music. Roussos first gained fame in the late 1960s as the lead singer of the progressive rock band Aphrodite’s Child, alongside Vangelis. The band’s success, particularly with the album 666, paved the way for Roussos’s solo career. In the early 1970s, he became a global sensation with hits like “Forever and Ever,” “Goodbye My Love, Goodbye,” and “My Friend the Wind,” which showcased his powerful, operatic voice.

Roussos’s flamboyant style and emotive singing made him a beloved figure in Europe and beyond, with his music resonating across various cultures. His ability to sing in multiple languages, including Greek, English, French, and Spanish, helped him build a broad international fan base. Demis Roussos’s career spanned several decades, during which he sold millions of records and became one of Greece’s most successful musical exports. His legacy continues to influence artists across the world.

#8 Anna Vissi

Anna Vissi, born in Cyprus in 1957, is one of Greece’s most iconic pop singers, known for her dynamic performances and wide-ranging hits. Vissi began her music career in the 1970s and quickly rose to prominence in the Greek and Cypriot music scenes. Her collaborations with renowned composers like Nikos Karvelas led to a series of successful albums that blended pop, laïko, and rock influences. Vissi’s powerful voice and stage presence have made her a favorite among fans, earning her the nickname “the Greek Madonna.”

Throughout her career, Vissi has released numerous hit singles, including “Dodeka,” “Call Me,” and “Everything,” the latter of which represented Greece in the Eurovision Song Contest in 2006. Her ability to adapt to changing musical trends while maintaining her distinctive style has kept her at the forefront of the Greek music industry for decades. Anna Vissi’s contributions to Greek pop music are immense, and she remains one of the most influential and beloved figures in contemporary Greek culture.

#9 Giorgos Mazonakis

Giorgos Mazonakis, born in Athens, Greece, in 1972, is a popular singer known for his modern laïko music and energetic performances. Mazonakis began his music career in the early 1990s and quickly became a prominent figure in the Greek music scene. His deep, emotive voice and ability to blend traditional Greek music with contemporary pop and dance elements have made him a favorite among fans. Mazonakis’s hits, such as “To Gucci Forema,” “Savvato,” and “Koita na mathaineis,” have dominated the Greek charts and solidified his reputation as one of the leading artists in the genre.

Mazonakis is also known for his distinctive fashion sense and charismatic stage presence, which have made him a trendsetter in Greek entertainment. Over the years, he has released numerous successful albums, and his concerts are known for their high energy and emotional intensity. Giorgos Mazonakis’s ability to evolve with the times while staying true to his musical roots has made him a lasting figure in Greek music.

#10 Despina Vandi

Despina Vandi, born in Tübingen, Germany, to Greek parents in 1969, is a highly successful Greek pop and laïko singer, known for her vibrant stage presence and a string of chart-topping hits. Vandi moved to Greece at a young age and began her music career in the early 1990s. Her breakthrough came with the release of her 1997 album Deka Entoles, which established her as a major star in the Greek music industry. Vandi’s music often blends traditional Greek elements with contemporary pop and dance music, creating a sound that appeals to a wide audience.

Her 2001 album Gia was a massive success, spawning hit singles like “Gia” and “Opa Opa,” which gained international recognition and solidified her status as one of Greece’s leading pop stars. Vandi has won numerous awards for her music, including multiple Arion and MAD Video Music Awards. Her ability to connect with fans through her dynamic performances and relatable lyrics has made her one of the most beloved figures in Greek pop music.

#11 Eleftheria Arvanitaki

Eleftheria Arvanitaki, born in Piraeus, Greece, in 1957, is a renowned singer known for her contemporary interpretations of traditional Greek music and her crossover into world music. Arvanitaki began her music career in the 1980s as a member of the rebetiko revival band Opisthodromiki Kompania before launching her solo career. Her unique voice, characterized by its clarity and emotional depth, quickly made her a standout artist in the Greek music scene. Arvanitaki’s music often blends elements of laïko, rebetiko, and modern pop, creating a sound that is both rooted in tradition and accessible to contemporary audiences.

Throughout her career, Arvanitaki has collaborated with a wide range of international artists and composers, further broadening her appeal. Her albums, such as Meno Ektos and Dinata, have been critically acclaimed and commercially successful, earning her a dedicated fan base in Greece and abroad. Eleftheria Arvanitaki’s contributions to Greek music are significant, and she is widely regarded as one of the most influential and innovative artists in the genre.

#12 Sakis Rouvas

Sakis Rouvas, born in Corfu, Greece, in 1972, is a pop singer, actor, and television presenter who has become one of Greece’s most prominent entertainers. Rouvas began his music career in the early 1990s and quickly gained fame with his debut album, which included hits like “Par’ta” and “Min Antistekesai.” Known for his charismatic stage presence and dynamic performances, Rouvas became a teen idol and a leading figure in the Greek pop music scene. His music often blends pop, rock, and dance elements, appealing to a wide audience.

Rouvas represented Greece in the Eurovision Song Contest twice, in 2004 with the song “Shake It,” where he placed third, and in 2009 with “This Is Our Night,” where he placed seventh. His success in Eurovision further solidified his status as an international star. Beyond music, Rouvas has pursued a successful career in acting and television, making him a versatile and influential figure in Greek entertainment. Sakis Rouvas’s ability to adapt to different media and maintain his popularity over the years has made him one of Greece’s most enduring stars.

#13 Marinella

Marinella, born Kyriaki Papadopoulou in Thessaloniki, Greece, in 1938, is an iconic Greek singer with a career spanning over six decades. Known for her powerful voice and emotional performances, Marinella is considered one of the greatest singers in Greek music history. She began her career in the late 1950s and quickly became a leading figure in the laïko genre, collaborating with some of Greece’s most renowned composers, including Stelios Kazantzidis and Mikis Theodorakis. Marinella’s ability to convey deep emotion through her singing has made her a beloved figure in Greece.

Throughout her career, Marinella has released numerous albums and hit singles, including “Stalia Stalia,” “I Agapi Mas,” and “Krasi, Thalassa kai T’ Agori Mou.” Her versatility as an artist has allowed her to perform a wide range of musical styles, from traditional Greek folk music to more contemporary pop. Marinella’s influence on Greek music is immense, and she continues to be celebrated as one of the country’s most respected and admired artists.

#14 Antonis Remos

Antonis Remos, born in Düsseldorf, Germany, to Greek parents in 1970, is one of Greece’s most popular and respected singers, known for his laïko music and romantic ballads. Remos moved to Greece at a young age and began his music career in the mid-1990s. His debut album, Antonis Remos, released in 1996, was a commercial success and established him as a major force in Greek music. Remos’s deep, soulful voice and ability to convey emotion through his music have made him a favorite among fans.

Over the years, Remos has released a series of successful albums, including Kardia Mou Min Anisiheis, Alithies ke Psemata, and Kleista Ta Stomata, which have produced numerous hit singles. His collaborations with prominent Greek composers and lyricists have further solidified his status as one of the leading figures in the laïko genre. Antonis Remos’s ability to connect with audiences through his music and his charismatic stage presence have made him one of Greece’s most beloved artists.

#15 Nikos Vertis

Nikos Vertis, born in Gorinchem, Netherlands, in 1976 and raised in Thessaloniki, Greece, is one of the most popular contemporary Greek laïko singers. Vertis began his music career in the early 2000s, quickly rising to fame with his debut album Poli Apotoma Vradiazei (2003), which included hits like “Pes To Mou Ksana” and “Se Mena.” His deep, soulful voice and ability to convey raw emotion in his music have made him a favorite among Greek audiences. Vertis’s music blends traditional laïko with modern pop elements, creating a sound that appeals to a wide audience.

Throughout his career, Vertis has released a series of successful albums, including Pame Psihi Mou (2004) and Mono Gia Sena (2013), both of which have produced chart-topping singles. Known for his charismatic stage presence, Vertis regularly performs in sold-out venues, both in Greece and abroad. His consistent ability to deliver hit songs and connect with his audience has solidified his position as one of the leading figures in Greek music today.

#16 Mando

Mando, born Adamantia Stamatopoulou in Piraeus, Greece, in 1966, is a Greek pop singer known for her powerful voice and emotional ballads. Mando began her music career in the late 1980s and gained recognition with her debut album Filia (1989), which showcased her impressive vocal range and ability to convey deep emotion through her music. Over the years, Mando has released numerous successful albums, including Epiklisi (1993) and Ptisi Gia Dio (1995), which have solidified her reputation as one of Greece’s most talented singers.

Mando’s music often blends pop with elements of laïko and orchestral arrangements, creating a rich and emotive sound that resonates with listeners. Her collaborations with prominent Greek composers and lyricists have produced some of the most memorable songs in Greek pop music. In addition to her music career, Mando has represented Greece in international music competitions, further enhancing her reputation. Mando’s ability to maintain her artistic integrity while achieving commercial success has made her a respected figure in the Greek music industry.

#17 Glykeria

Glykeria, born Glykeria Kotsoula in Agio Pnevma, Serres, Greece, in 1953, is a renowned Greek singer known for her interpretations of traditional and folk Greek music. Glykeria began her music career in the 1970s, quickly gaining recognition for her powerful and emotive voice. Her ability to breathe new life into traditional Greek songs, as well as her interpretations of rebetiko and laïko music, have made her one of Greece’s most beloved artists. Glykeria’s music often reflects the rich cultural heritage of Greece, and she has become a key figure in preserving and promoting Greek musical traditions.

Over the years, Glykeria has released numerous successful albums and has performed extensively both in Greece and internationally. Her collaborations with renowned composers and musicians have produced some of the most iconic recordings in Greek music. Glykeria’s contribution to Greek culture is significant, and she continues to be a respected and influential figure in the music world, known for her dedication to her craft and her ability to connect with audiences through her heartfelt performances.

#18 Michalis Hatzigiannis

Michalis Hatzigiannis, born in Nicosia, Cyprus, in 1979, is a Greek-Cypriot pop singer and songwriter who has become one of the most successful artists in Greece and Cyprus. Hatzigiannis began his music career in the late 1990s, representing Cyprus in the Eurovision Song Contest in 1998. His rise to fame in Greece came with the release of his debut Greek-language album Paraxeni Giorti (2000), which included hit singles like “Mono Sta Oneira” and “To Kalitero Psema.” Known for his melodic voice and romantic ballads, Hatzigiannis quickly became a favorite among Greek audiences.

Throughout his career, Hatzigiannis has released a series of highly successful albums, including Akatalili Skini (2004) and 7 (2008), which have produced numerous chart-topping hits. His ability to blend pop with elements of rock and orchestral music has set him apart in the Greek music scene. Hatzigiannis’s influence extends beyond his music, as he has also been involved in various philanthropic efforts. His talent, versatility, and dedication to his craft have made him one of the most respected and admired artists in contemporary Greek music.

#19 Vicky Leandros

Vicky Leandros, born Vassiliki Papathanasiou in Palaiokastritsa, Corfu, Greece, in 1949, is an internationally renowned singer who gained fame after winning the Eurovision Song Contest in 1972 with the song “Après Toi.” Leandros’s career began in the 1960s when she started recording music in multiple languages, including Greek, French, English, and German, which allowed her to reach a wide international audience. Her multilingualism and ability to adapt to different musical styles made her one of the most successful Greek singers abroad.

Leandros’s victory at Eurovision catapulted her to global stardom, and she went on to release numerous successful albums throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Her music often blends elements of pop, chanson, and classical music, showcasing her versatility as an artist. Vicky Leandros has sold millions of records worldwide and remains a beloved figure in Europe, particularly in Germany and France. Her contribution to Greek and international music is significant, and she continues to be celebrated as one of Greece’s most successful musical exports.

#20 Giannis Parios

Giannis Parios, born Yiannis Varthakouris on the island of Paros, Greece, in 1946, is one of Greece’s most beloved and respected singers, known for his romantic ballads and contributions to Greek pop music. Parios began his music career in the late 1960s and quickly gained recognition for his smooth, emotive voice and ability to convey deep emotion through his songs. His repertoire includes a wide range of music, from traditional Greek laïko to contemporary pop, making him one of the most versatile artists in the Greek music industry.

Throughout his career, Parios has released numerous successful albums, including Thalassografia (1983) and Odos Oneiron (1993), both of which have produced iconic Greek love songs. His music often explores themes of love, loss, and longing, resonating with listeners across generations. Parios’s ability to connect with his audience through his heartfelt performances has made him one of the most enduring and beloved figures in Greek music. His influence on the genre is profound, and he continues to perform and inspire new generations of artists.

#21 Elena Paparizou

Elena Paparizou, born in Borås, Sweden, to Greek parents in 1982, is a Greek-Swedish pop singer who achieved international fame after winning the Eurovision Song Contest in 2005 with the song “My Number One.” Paparizou began her music career as part of the duo Antique, which gained popularity in Greece and Sweden with their blend of Greek and Euro-pop music. After the duo disbanded, Paparizou launched her solo career and quickly became one of Greece’s most successful pop artists.

Her debut solo album, Protereotita (2004), included hits like “Anapandites Kliseis” and “Treli Kardia,” which established her as a leading figure in the Greek pop music scene. Paparizou’s Eurovision victory brought her international recognition, and she continued to release successful albums in both Greek and English. Known for her powerful voice, dynamic stage presence, and ability to blend traditional Greek music with contemporary pop, Elena Paparizou has become one of Greece’s most beloved and influential pop stars. Her contribution to both Greek and European music is significant, and she continues to be a prominent figure in the industry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the most internationally recognized Greek singer known for blending classical and pop music?

Nana Mouskouri is the most internationally recognized Greek singer, known for her wide-ranging repertoire that includes classical, pop, and folk music. She has sold over 300 million records worldwide, making her one of the best-selling female artists of all time.

Which Greek singer is famous for winning the Eurovision Song Contest and later becoming a pop icon?

Elena Paparizou won the Eurovision Song Contest in 2005 with “My Number One,” catapulting her to international fame. She is now a celebrated pop icon in Greece and across Europe.

Which legendary Greek singer is known as the “Divine Diva” of opera?

Maria Callas, often referred to as the “Divine Diva,” is one of the most famous opera singers in history. Her dramatic intensity and exceptional vocal range revolutionized opera in the 20th century.

Which Greek singer is celebrated for modernizing traditional Greek music and making it accessible to contemporary audiences?

Eleftheria Arvanitaki is celebrated for her modern interpretations of traditional Greek music, blending rebetiko and laïko with contemporary sounds. Her work has introduced Greek musical traditions to a global audience, making her one of the most respected artists in Greece.