Poly Panou

One of the greatest voices of Greece, one of the grande dames of Greek popular music, Poly Panou passed away losing a long battle against cancer. She was 73 years old. Her songs and her original voice made her one of the best Greeks female singers. Every song was a hit and was sung at family gatherings and festive occasions. Poly Panou sang songs that remained popular in several generations. “Τί σου ‘κάνα και πίνεις” one of biggest success “What did I do to you and now you drink”. Poly Panou sang the original version of this popular song by composer Mimis Plessas and lyricist Lefteris Papadopoulos in the film “Olga, agapi mou” (Olga, my love) in 1968. Poly Panou was born in Athens on 28th October 1940. Her real name was Polytimi Koliopanoy but she was named Poly Panou by another great Greek singer Grigoris Bithikotsis. She started her career in the late 50’s and reached her peak in the 60’s and 70’s. Poly Panou was the first who sung the famous “Children of Piraeus” which later became internationally known by Melina Merkouri and the film “Never on Sunday”. Poly Panou, a real rebetissa of modern times. Her songs where later sung by other singers but nobody could beat the characteristic voice and technique of Poly Panou.