Mimis Plessas, a gentle giant of modern Greek music, dies at 99

ATHENS – Mimis Plessas, a beloved Greek composer whose music appeared in dozens of films, television shows and theater productions and who provided the soundtrack to the lives of millions of Greeks, died just a week before his 100th birthday.

His death was confirmed on Saturday by his wife, Loukila Carrer. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis paid tribute to Plessas, writing: “He has left us an outstanding composer, a great scholar and a kind man.

Born in Athens on October 12, 1924, Plessas began his musical journey at an early age. He became a piano soloist on state radio before entering international piano competitions while still in his 20s. His gift for composition would cement his legacy.

Plessas became a constant presence on Greek television, and his gentle manner and sing-along tunes endeared him to generations. Often seated at the piano, accompanying renowned Greek stars, he was the protagonist of musical moments and celebrations for decades, and his music became intertwined with the cultural fabric of the nation. His 1969 composition, “O Dromos” (The Street), remains one of the best-selling albums in Greek history.

He 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 musical forms with elements of jazz and classical music, creating a signature sound pleasing to the ear, softer than the loud jingle of many of his contemporaries.

“His ‘Road’ was rich, full of melodies that come from jazz and permeate Greek song, as well as Greek cinema,” Mitsotakis said. “Mimis Plessas was unique, as were the moments she will always give us with her music.”

Plessas’s contributions went beyond composition. He produced a popular radio quiz show, “In 30 Seconds,” and was 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.