The Greek artistic community is mourning the loss of legendary singer Kaiti Grey, who passed away on Monday morning at the age of 100.
According to reports, the celebrated performer died at 10:00 a.m. at her home after facing significant health issues in recent months.
A Legacy of Music
Kaiti Grey, whose real name was Athanasia Gizili, recorded over 1,500 songs during her illustrious career, which began in the 1950s. She was the highest-paid singer of the 1960s and became a household name in Greece and abroad.
Early Life
Born in the village of Mytilinioi on the island of Samos, Grey was one of four siblings. She was adopted by the Kalaitzis family and raised in Piraeus. Initially pursuing acting, she performed with theatrical troupes before transitioning to singing. Her first recorded song, “To Marazi,” composed by Giorgos Mitsakis in 1952, marked the beginning of her rise to fame.
International Recognition
Grey’s success extended beyond Greece as she performed in major venues across the United States, Australia, Canada, and Germany. During her international career, she crossed paths with cultural icons such as Elvis Presley, Jimi Hendrix, Rita Hayworth, Maria Callas, Stavros Niarchos, and Aristotle Onassis.
Record-Breaking Career
During the 1960s, Grey commanded daily earnings exceeding 8,000 drachmas, making her the most highly compensated singer of her era. This status was affirmed by Greek courts during a legal dispute with a nightclub owner.
Grey retired from recording and performing in 1996, leaving behind a monumental legacy in Greek music.
