The ‘giant of modern Greek music,’ Mimis Plessas, has passed away, just a week shy of his 100th birthday.
Plessas’ death was confirmed on Saturday, October 5 by his wife, Loukila Carrer.
Plessas was a beloved musician and composer in Greece, whose music featured in scores of films, television shows and theatrical productions
Born in Athens on October 12, 1924, Plessas began his musical journey at a young age. He became a piano soloist at state radio before entering international piano competitions while still in his 20s.
Often seated at the piano, accompanying renowned Greek stars, he was a fixture of musical moments and celebrations for decades, his music becoming intertwined with the nation’s cultural fabric.
His 1969 composition, “O Dromos” (The Street), remains one of the highest-selling albums in Greek history.
Plessas collaborated with a constellation of Greek music icons, including Nana Mouskouri, Vicky Leandros, Giannis Poulopoulos, Marinella, and lyricist Lefteris Papadopoulos, shaping the landscape of Greek music.
His work defied genre, blending traditional Greek music forms with elements of jazz and classical, creating an easy-on-the-ear signature sound — softer than the hard jangle of many of his contemporaries.
Plessas’ contributions extended beyond composing. He produced a popular radio quiz show, In 30 Seconds, and he served as a judge on numerous Greek and international music competition panels. He was also a member of prestigious artistic societies, including the Greek Society of Theatrical Authors and the Society of Greek Composers and Lyricists.
Plessas is survived by his wife, a son and a daughter. Funeral arrangements were not immediately known.
