Remembering Greek rock musician, Lavrentis Machairitsas

·

By Billy Patramanis.

Famous Greek rock musician, Lavrentis Machairitsas, was born in Volos on November 5th, 1956. To celebrate his life, we take a look back at some of his achievements.

Early Life:

Machairitsas was only six years old when he began taking piano lessions. His passion for music grew when he discovered The Beatles and bought their record ‘Help!’

Machairitsas’ first job was at a record store, however, his poor attitude got him fired. He was also known for misbehaving in school, having started a fight with one of his teachers and being expelled from his high school at the time. He was later banned from other high schools around Greece.

With schooling not an option for Machairitsas, he was forced into work. After working at several jobs without settling, he eventually joined the army, serving for 14 months.

Lavrentis Machairitsas. Source: Business Daily.

Music Career:

Once he left the army, he would begin singing in Syntrofia after meeting Panos Tzabelas. By 20 years old, Machairitsas formed a band with Pavlos Kirkilis, Takis Bassalakis and Antonios Mitzelos called the ‘P.L.J Band.’

The band began in Greece, however, they decided to relocate to Paris in the hope of becoming popular musicians outside of Greece. By 1982, Armageddon was released, becoming the bands first album.

The album wasn’t very popular upon release, and so for their second album, the band changed their name to Τερμίτες (Termites) and started singing in Greek.

Machairitsas would often hold concerts all over Greece.

Their popularity grew by 1984, after the release of their third record. In 1986, they released their fourth album.

After a highly successful music career, Termites would release their final album, Perimenontas Tin Vrochi (Waiting For the Rain), in 1988.

Machairitsas would then venture into a solo career as a writer and performing artist. His music became very popular, with his 1991 album, ‘Didymoteicho Blues.

During his solo career, Machairitsas would begin working closely with famous Greek musician Dionysis Tsaknis.

In 1995, Machairitsas would release what many regard as his greatest album, ‘Parathyra Pou Kourase I Thea’.

Legacy and Death:

Machairitsas, as his albums were highly successful, would often hold concerts all over Greece, with musical partner Tsaknis. He had many concerts with highly successful musicians such as Eleftheria Arvanitaki and Christos Thivaios.

On the 9th of September 2019, Machairitsas suffered a heart attack in his sleep, passing away at the age of 62. 

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Alpha restaurant to host centenary celebration honouring Mikis Theodorakis

On Sunday, August 24 at 12pm, Alpha restaurant will host 'Centenary Tribute to Mikis Theodorakis' featuring the Australian Hellenic Choir.

Phlavour Revolution: Greek duo deliver home-cooked goodness to your doorstep

The duo behind restaurant Bahari in Richmond have recently launched a new venture, called Phlavour, ‘Mediterranean Ready Meals.’

Webinar for Greeks abroad tackles key tax issues and draws hundreds

The first TaxWebinar dedicated exclusively to Greeks abroad and tax residents of other countries was held on Wednesday, July 9.

From passports to tax reform: Loverdos sets agenda ahead of Australia visit

Loverdos has confirmed that he will be visiting Australia from 8 to 26 October, acknowledging the government’s absence from the country.

‘I’m not done yet’: Ange Postecoglou reflects on heritage and coaching dreams

Ange Postecoglou sat down with The Greek Herald to reflect on his philosophy and his cultural heritage. Read the interview here.

You May Also Like

Luke Banitsiotis on why Melbourne house prices will surge as restrictions ease

Melbourne home prices are tipped to surge following the lifting of a seven-week ban on home inspections over the weekend.

Greece reiterates solidarity with Ukraine on Europe Day 2022

The Presidential Mansion in Athens, Greece was lit up in the colours of the Ukrainian flag on Monday to mark Europe Day 2022.

‘Click to Undo’: Winner of the 2022 Martin-Lysicrates Prize announced

The winner of the Martin-Lysicrates Play Competition was announced during an event at Riverside Theatres in Parramatta on November 8.