Melbourne recently welcomed one of Greece’s leading laiko performers, Giorgos Margaritis, in an evening that highlighted the love and warmth the Greek diaspora continues to show for his music.
Giorgos and Konstantinos Margaritis’ next performance will be held this Saturday at the Panarcadian Association, 570 Victoria Street, North Melbourne—promising another unforgettable night for Greek Australians.
In a wide-ranging interview, Margaritis shared his reflections on his deep bond with Greeks abroad and on the enduring power of laiko music to unite generations and keep cultural roots alive.
Visibly moved, he said:
“The love people give me here is unbelievable. So much that I’ll carry it with me in my suitcase to share it with Greeks back home.”
During our conversation, it became clear how strongly he feels the need to connect with the diaspora, to preserve language, customs and traditions through his music, and to offer—through his own unique voice—a piece of his soul to every community he visits.
Margaritis also places great emphasis on young people:
“The youth here in Australia are incredible,” he said.
“They follow in the footsteps of the older generations and are now taking the lead, keeping our musical tradition alive.”
The dedication of younger fans inspires him and fuels his passion to continue his artistic journey.
For him, laiko music is more than just a genre:
“It’s part of our history, our lived experiences. Entire generations grew up with these songs and are now passing them on to their children. It’s amazing to see five- and six-year-olds dancing and singing ‘Sto Keli 33.’ It gives me immense joy and strength.”
Throughout his career, Margaritis has not hesitated to experiment. His collaboration with the band 667 on a more “alternative” laiko album—with different instrumentation—opened doors to a younger audience.
“At first I didn’t want to do it,” he admitted, “but with encouragement from the late Harry Klynn, we went for it—and it became a huge success. Laiko music is alive, it has power, and it will never be forgotten.”
He recently released his new album, “Mikis Theodorakis’ Laika with Giorgos Margaritis,” featuring ten classic songs including “Drapetsona” and “Savvatovrado,” originally performed by legends such as Kazantzidis, Bithikotsis and Gavalas.
At his side during this tour is his son, Konstantinos Margaritis, who is taking his first steps as a singer. Impressed by the Australian audience, he said:
“It is a great joy to be here among you and to have performed my new song ‘Svise kai Kateva’ for the first time—a lively tsifteteli that will be released in the new year by Panik Records.”
Giorgos Margaritis is accompanied by longtime friend Giorgos Gouliovas, a well-known Greek Australian wrestling champion, and he took the opportunity to thank producer Michalis Kamitsis for his professionalism and the outstanding presentation of the musical program.
