Some of the most diverse music I have ever heard has hands down come from Greece. The music of Greece is well celebrated as the country's own history. Greek music separates into two parts: Greek traditional music and Byzantine music, with more eastern influence. These compositions have their roots in antiquity. Music is a significant aspect of "Hellenic" culture, both within Greece and in the diaspora.
Typical pop music of Greece includes the following genres: Éntekhno, Dimotika, Hip Hop, Laïkó , Punk and Rock.
Greek music actually extends far back into Ancient Greece, since music was a major part of the ancient Greek theatre. Music was an important part of education in Ancient Greece. Boys were even taught music starting as early as six years old. Greek musical literacy created a flowering of development. It would eventually become the basis for Western religious music and classical music.
Greek instruments that are typically used in music include: the lyra Pontos and Crete, the Outi, the Bouzouki, and the Baglamas. All of these are stringed instruments. Wind instruments in the Gavali, the Karamoudza, and the Thiambioli. My favorite instruments are the drums, like the Daouli, the Defi, and the Toumbi. Learn more about Greek instruments HERE!
The genre "Éntekhno." arose in the late 1950s. Éntekhno, literally meaning "art song", is orchestral music with elements from Greek folk rhythm and melody. It's lyrical themes are often political or based on the work of famous Greek poets. Mikis Theodorakis and Manos Hadjidakis were the most popular early composers of Éntekhno music. "Laïkó" music, meaning song of the people, is the urban folk music of Greece. It emerged by the creation of Greek music culture in the 20th century. Contemporary Laïkó is currently Greece's mainstream music genre in their modern nightlife. Contemporary Laïkó emerged as a style in the early 1980s.
I definitely recommend checking out MTV Greece, which was just launched in 2008, as a starting ground to finding out what is happening today in Greek music.
In the meantime, check out the 10 songs I love in Greek after the jump! Enjoy....
The artists and songs are in Greek, but I gave the Latin translation of the names to make it easier.
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- "Poula Me"- by Pyx Lax
- "Kai vgale to kragion sou"- by Stephanos Korkolis
- "Ki Allo"- by Elli Kokkinou
- "Ta Lefta"- by Despina Vandi
- "To Tragoudi Mou"- by Goin Through
- "Thisavros"- by Giannis Ploutarhos
- "Esena Mono"- by Kaiti Garbi
- "Roza"- by Mitropanos Dimitris
- "Chocolat" by REC
- "Yemou Yemu"-by Stamatis Kokotas
