Greek music icon George Dalaras was bestowed with the title of Distinguished Citizen by the Mayor of Buenos Aires, an honor presented ahead of his highly anticipated concert in the Argentine capital.
A symbolic gift for Dalaras: The No. 10 jersey
During the ceremony at the City Hall, the Mayor of Buenos Aires presented Dalaras with a deeply symbolic gift: the legendary No. 10 jersey of the Argentine National Football Team. This iconic jersey has been worn by football greats Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi.
Dalaras received the mythical shirt with his own name printed on the back, an acknowledgment of his own legendary status. The singer expressed his gratitude on social media, writing, “Thank you very much for the special honor.”
The historic return to Buenos Aires
Dalaras is currently in Buenos Aires for a special, single performance scheduled for November 12th—a concert that marks his return to the city after an absence.
There is a deep connection between Dalaras and Latin American music, as his unique sound blends elements of Greek genres like rebetiko and laïkó with Mediterranean folk and Latin American influences.
In an interview with Argentina’s Perfil, Dalaras emphasized the central role of music in both nations:
“Just like in Greece, music in Argentina plays a vital role in people’s lives. There is a powerful musical tradition that sustains—even defines—its people. It offers them comfort and hope.”
He also personally noted the influence of the region on his career:
“The songs of Latin America also hold a special place in my heart. They are the sounds that shaped my adolescence, my constant ‘conversation’ with my guitar.”
Known for his humanitarian work as a UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador, Dalaras’s return demonstrates how Hellenic influence and the soul of folk song transcend languages and borders.
