Dionysis Savvopoulos, the renowned singer and songwriter whose music defined an era of Greek culture, died on Tuesday of cardiac arrest. He was 81.
Savvopoulos had been hospitalized in a private clinic since last Friday.
He was widely considered one of the most important figures in modern Greek music, celebrated for his unique ability to blend folk traditions with classical and rock elements.
His songs, often combining humor with philosophical depth, captured the atmosphere and contradictions of contemporary Greece.
Born in Thessaloniki in 1944, Mr. Savvopoulos briefly attended law school before abandoning his studies for music.
His 1966 debut album, Fortigo (Truck), is regarded as a milestone in Greek music.
His 1969 album, To Perivoli tou Trelou (The Madman’s Garden), solidified his status as one of the era's most recognizable voices.
During the 1967-1974 military dictatorship, Mr. Savvopoulos was imprisoned for the political and social messages in his work.
After the restoration of democracy, he continued a prolific career, collaborating with other distinguished musicians, giving numerous concerts, and working in theater and television.