On 11 December, we remember the birth of Grigoris Bithikotsis, a man whose voice and compositions became an integral part of Greece’s cultural identity. His songs and legacy remain an inspiration, echoing the struggles and dreams of the Greek people.
Grigoris Bithikotsis, a legendary Greek singer and composer, gifted the nation with some of its most profound musical moments. Known as the “Sir” of Greek music—a nickname coined by journalist Dimitris Psathas in a chronicle—Bithikotsis became a cultural icon whose “Doric” voice embraced post-war Greece. He infused the works of composers like Mikis Theodorakis with a profound sense of authenticity and popular appeal, serving as a bridge to bring the poetic words of Giorgos Seferis, Odysseas Elytis, Yiannis Ritsos, and Tasos Livaditis to every corner of the country.
Early life
Born on 11 December 1922 in Peristeri, Athens, Grigoris Bithikotsis grew up as the youngest child in a poor family struggling during the interwar years. In 1937, a chance encounter with rebetiko legends Markos Vamvakaris, Manolis Chiotis, and Stratos Pagioumtzis inspired his lifelong dedication to music. He often declared, “Above all, Markos Vamvakaris,” signifying the profound influence Vamvakaris had on him.
Career beginnings
During his military service in the late 1940s, Bithikotsis composed his first songs, performing for fellow soldiers and officers. His professional career began in 1949 with his debut recording “To Kandili Tremosvini” (The Flickering Oil Lamp), in which he performed alongside Markos Vamvakaris.
Collaborations with Mikis Theodorakis
A turning point in Bithikotsis’s career was his collaboration with Mikis Theodorakis. Their partnership brought to life iconic works such as:
- “Epitaphios” (The Epitaph), featuring tracks like “You’ve Left on a May Day”.
- “Romiosyni” (Greekness), with songs such as “The Bells Will Ring”.
- “Axion Esti” (It Is Worthy), including “O Sun of Justice” and “One Swallow”.
These compositions, set to poetry by giants like Yiannis Ritsos and Odysseas Elytis, became timeless anthems of Greek culture.
Other collaborations and hits
Bithikotsis also worked with composers such as Manos Hadjidakis (“Eim’ Aetos Horis Ftera”, “Milise Mou”), Stavros Xarhakos (“Aponi Zoi”), and Vassilis Tsitsanis. As a songwriter, he created enduring hits like “Episimi Agapimeni” (Official Beloved) and “Tou Botaniko o Magkas” (The Rogue from Botaniko).
Political turmoil and reconciliation
During Greece’s dictatorship era (1967–1974), his relationship with Mikis Theodorakis was strained due to Bithikotsis’s controversial performance of the regime’s anthem in 1967. However, the two reconciled in 2002 during a tribute concert in Bithikotsis’s honour.
Recognition and legacy
In January 2003, President Kostis Stephanopoulos awarded him the Golden Cross of the Order of the Phoenix, recognising his contributions to Greek music. Stephanopoulos described him as “a great musician who expressed the joy and suffering of the Greek people.”
Bithikotsis passed away on 7 April 2005, aged 82. His music continues to resonate as a testament to his artistry and dedication to Greek culture. His son, also named Grigoris Bithikotsis, followed in his footsteps as a singer.
Also read: ON THIS DAY: Remembering Alekos Alexandrakis (2005)
Source: SanSimera.gr
