When thousands descended on Brighton-Le-Sands for the 2025 Greek Fest @ Bay Street, much of the attention centred on the energy pulsing through the crowd – an unmistakable heartbeat shaped by one of the festival’s standout young performers: percussionist Damascus Economou.
Sharing the stage with some of the biggest names in the Greek Australian music scene, Damascus delivered a dynamic performance that blended tradition with contemporary flair, capturing the very essence of what the festival represents: heritage, community, and the evolving sound of Greek culture in Australia.
For the rising musician, the day marked not just another gig – but a milestone in his artistic journey.
A childhood immersed in music
For Damascus, rhythm isn’t something he learned – it’s something he grew up inside of.
“I have been surrounded by live music my whole life,” he tells The Greek Herald. “Growing up, I have been fortunate enough to watch the best of the best musicians in Sydney, who had and still have inspired me to become a constantly improving musician myself.”
His passion for percussion began early, sparked by watching his now-mentor and teacher.
“At a young age, watching a freak drummer like George Constantinou (who would later be my drum teacher) absolutely mesmerised me,” he explains.
Other influential figures shaped his technique along the way – Foti Lambis, Savva Jordanou, Johnny Vavasis, Chris Lironis and Chris Theocharides – along with the countless musicians he has observed both in Australia and Greece.
Performing in local bars, clubs, beach venues and even traditional paniyiria abroad deepened his cultural connection and “broadened my love and respect for Greek music and culture furthering my motivation to be the best I possibly can be.”
A dream realised on Bay Street
For many young diaspora musicians, sharing the stage with Sydney’s Greek music icons is a long-term dream. For Damascus, the Greek Fest @ Bay Street made that dream a reality.
“Being given the opportunity to perform at the Greek Fest @ Bay Street was a true highlight of my career thus far. Being in the company of such amazing musicians was a dream come true,” he says.
“I’ve always looked up to them, dreaming to one day share the stage with them, and the Bay Street Festival gave me that opportunity.”
Performing alongside major figures such as Thanasi Pylarinos and Telly Benetatos – artists he describes as “integral” to the Greek music scene in Australia – was both surreal and motivating.
“It makes me motivated to hopefully inspire the younger generation just like those who inspired me,” he says.
Blending old and new: A unique sound
One of the hallmarks of Damascus’ musicianship is his ability to honour traditional Greek rhythms while infusing them with modern influence.
“Having been exposed to a vast variety of genres… 50’s rock and roll, 80’s funk, modern day house music… have allowed me to blend different styles in with the traditional and even modern Greek beats and rhythms,” he explains.
He credits artists like The Beatles, Luther Vandross and Santana for sparking curiosity that pushes him to experiment.
He constantly asks himself: How can I modernise without losing authenticity?
The answer lies in a sound that appeals equally to younger festival-goers and older generations – something he clearly achieved on Bay Street.
A brotherhood of musicians
Some of the most meaningful moments of the day came from performing alongside lifelong friends and collaborators, including Kosta Benetatos and Georgio Svolos.
“Kosta and I have grown up playing music together… at various birthday parties, christenings, weddings and other private events,” he says.
“I have the same relationship with Georgio Svolos… Georgio has played an important role in my musical journey so far, playing the sort of ‘older brother’ role, constantly helping me improve my craft.”
The festival deepened those connections.
“I am honoured to call these two amazing musicians my friends and I pray that we are able to continue to make people smile by doing what we love,” he says.
A deeply Greek connection
For Damascus, playing Greek music is not just about performance – it’s about identity.
“Immersing myself in the Greek culture and community growing up has allowed me to gain the ability to connect with other members of the Greek community on a deeper level,” he says.
Speaking the language, understanding the history, and knowing the stories behind the lyrics all shape how he plays.
During the Bouzouki Entertainment set, that connection became electric.
“I was able to join the people on the dancefloor… while we were all singing and dancing with smiles from ear to ear. To me, this is what makes music and performing my true passion,” he says.
Standout moments
Of all the highlights, one stood above the rest.
“A special moment for me was performing alongside Johnny Vavasis,” he says. “In September 2012, I first saw Johnny play at a wedding and have since looked up to him. To be able to share the stage with him at the festival was such a special moment for me.”
But nothing compares to seeing the familiar faces in the crowd.
“Looking into the crowd and seeing my family and friends all with smiles, clapping, dancing and singing… Without the people around me constantly supporting me and pushing me to be better in all aspects of life, I doubt I would be where I am today,” he says.
Percussion as identity
Reflecting on his journey, Damascus sees drums and percussion not just as instruments – but as teachers.
“Drums and percussion have played such an important role in shaping who I am today. It has allowed me to express myself through music,” he says.
“Being a drummer forces you to be disciplined and structured, supporting the rest of the band… creating a symphony that the crowd can enjoy.”
It’s that sense of discipline, expression and shared joy that continues to drive him forward.
A rising star with deep roots
The Greek Fest @ Bay Street was a major moment for Damascus – but it’s clear it’s only the beginning.
Grounded in Greek heritage, shaped by musical mentors, uplifted by friends and family, and fuelled by a deep love for rhythm, Damascus is part of a new generation redefining Greek Australian music.
And if the Bay Street crowd was any indication – his beat is only getting stronger.
