The voice of Grigoris Bithikotsis is a collective national treasure, indelibly etched into the Greek cultural DNA. Yet, for each individual, Bithikotsis signifies something unique. For some, he was the first Greek singer to interpret set-to-music poetry through Mikis Theodorakis’ Romiosini and Axion Esti, with lyrics by Yannis Ritsos and Odysseas Elytis, giving life to iconic songs like Tis Dikaiosinis Ilie Noite, Ena To Chelidoni, and Tis Agapis Aimata. For others, he was the composer of rebetiko gems such as Tou Votanikou o Magkas and Stou Belami to Ouzeri. And for many, his unique, “wooden” Doric voice became inseparable from life’s joys and sorrows, expressed in songs like Aponi Zoi, Matia Vourkomena, Drapetsona, Ypomoni, Kai Doxa To Theo, and Avrio Pali.
This September 17, a grand commemorative concert at the Panathenaic Stadium will celebrate Bithikotsis’ legacy. The event carries both collective and deeply personal significance, as each attendee and performer remembers their own Bithikotsis—the man who, in some way, shaped their lives and memories.
Among the participating artists are Themis Adamantidis, Melina Aslanidou, Petros Gaitanos, Christos Dantis, Peggy Zina, Giannis Zouganelis, Giannis Kotsiras, Rena Morfi, Dimitris Basis, Giannis Bezos, Pitsa Papadopoulou, Antonis Remos, Stelios Rokkos, Iro Saia, Marios Frangoulis, Kostas Hatzis, Teketzides, and Lakis Lazopoulos, who oversees the artistic direction and presentation. Legendary composer Stavros Xarhakos will also perform. Part of the concert’s proceeds will benefit Floga, the Greek association supporting children with cancer.
Personal Tributes from Greece’s Leading Artists
Giannis Kotsiras recalls a moment that left a lasting impression: “It was winter 2001. I was performing in Sfendona when the phone rang. It was Grigoris Bithikotsis singing ‘Tha spaso efta potiria st’ ouranou ta panigyria’ to invite me to his tribute concert at the Peace and Friendship Stadium. I experienced this firsthand! Grigoris was my teacher. His voice is exactly how I imagined the voice of Greece itself—strong, Doric, proud, and fully Greek. He even called me his spiritual son. I couldn’t miss the celebration honoring him.”
Dimitris Basis emphasizes Bithikotsis’ role as a teacher of modern Greek music: “Grigoris Bithikotsis was the most emblematic voice of contemporary Greece. Many creators were inspired by his voice. For me personally, studying his technique, his breathing, his Doric style, and his expression, was like having a master class in Greek singing.”
Actor and singer Giannis Bezos describes Bithikotsis as representing the essence of modern Greek music: “His voice and the way he conveyed emotion over melodies distinguish him from today’s music. Being part of this tribute is a given—I have always been a devoted admirer of his career.”
Pitsa Papadopoulou highlights his interpretive mastery: “For me, Bithikotsis is everything. He could sing all genres and speak to our souls. I’m delighted we have the chance to perform together at the Panathenaic Stadium, honoring the songs he composed for me.”
Christos Dantis sees Bithikotsis as a champion of the common people: “He brought folk music from the streets into a broader sphere, honoring the people, their pain, love, soul, and struggles. I was fortunate to work with him shortly before he passed. He was generous, kind, and embraced everyone as if we were his children.”
For Stelios Rokkos, Bithikotsis’ voice is a nostalgic journey to childhood: “I grew up in a home where my father’s favorite singer was Grigoris Bithikotsis. Being invited to honor him is incredibly emotional; I carry that childlike wonder within me.”
Finally, Bithikotsis’ son reflects on his father’s enduring legacy: “Every time we honor my father, I feel deeply moved. I have real memories and immense love for him. I hope the September 17 concert at the Panathenaic Stadium will be the grand celebration he deserves.”
The event promises to be a heartfelt tribute, uniting generations of Greeks in celebrating the life, music, and unforgettable voice of the legendary Grigoris Bithikotsis.
Ask me anything
Explore related questions
