Greek singer and beauty icon Anna Vissi is celebrating her 67th birthday today, marking a remarkable career that has captivated audiences worldwide.
With her impressive collection of albums spanning genres from opera to love ballads to pop and rock, Vissi has demonstrated incredible versatility, singing in Greek and English.
Her albums have reached gold, platinum, and even triple platinum status, solidifying her as one of the most beloved figures in Greek music. Among her many accolades, she has won prestigious awards, including the 1997 Best Female Singer and the Biggest Airplay Song on the Radio from the Greek Music Awards, which are similar to the Grammy Awards in the United States.
Born in 1957 in Cyprus, Vissi began her musical journey at six when she was admitted to the Cyprus Conservatory. Her family relocated to Greece to nurture her blossoming career. It didn’t take long for Vissi to catch the attention of influential figures in the music industry, including renowned producer and songwriter Nicos Karvelas, whom she later married.
Her debut album, Klima Tropiko (Tropical Climate), released in 1996, quickly went platinum and received glowing reviews. She performed at the Miss Universe Pageant a year later, marking her first international breakthrough. Her second album, Travma, released in 1997, achieved gold status within two weeks and triple platinum by the end of the year. One of its standout tracks, “Forgive Me This,” was produced by Ric Wake, known for his work with international stars.
In 1998, Vissi proved she was no fleeting sensation by sweeping the Popcorn Music Awards with seven honours, including Best Album, Best Song, Best Female Singer, and Best Live Appearance. Expanding her reach, she targeted the international English-language market with her album Everything I Am, which featured hits like “On a Night Like This,” “Still in Love With You,” “Kick the Habit,” “Supernatural Love,” and “No More the Fool.” Vissi toured the U.S., performing in major cities such as New York and Los Angeles, and with continued support from Sony Music, she went on to conquer new horizons, making the world her stage.
Today, as she celebrates 67 years of life, Anna Vissi’s legacy continues to shine brightly in music. ~ Charlotte Dillon, Rovi
Anna Vissi’s Bold Confession: “There Is No God” and Why She Rejects Religion