Look at those HOT PANTS! As for the music….I’m weird…I’d probably lean more Classic b/c of the musicianship….and because they wear more clothes… 🙂
Dear Lindsay,
Before I get into this week’s requested topic, I want to go back to when you asked me about Greek fashion! I still don’t totally know, BUT these sort of skinny pajama pants (not leggings, but just…fitted cotton pants that have intense patterns) are super popular here! I watched people wearing them for ages before buying a pair at H&M, and GIRL. It is basically just wearing socially acceptable pajamas, which is a fashion choice that I am ALL ABOUT.
Okay, onto your actual requested topic: Greek pop culture!
It is hilarious to me that you are asking very basic cultural questions that in seven months of living here, I have not thought to ask. So thank you for forcing me to engage more deeply in the culture around me!
According to Anthi, there are two types of Greek music: bouzoukia (which is kind of a pop equivalent) and classic (which is…fancier?). She said bouzoukia is “dog music” but then also compared it to Taylor Swift, SO clearly her judgment is not to be trusted. I’ll let you decide which you like more!
Bouzoukia Music
Pantelis Pantelidis is the Justin Bieber of Greece; he became famous because of singing on YouTube. But he REALLY became famous when he died in a car accident at age 33.
Eleni Foureira is a bit of a scandal, because she pretended to be Greek while gaining popularity. But she’s actually Albanian (Greeks are prejudiced against Albanians)! However, by the time her true heritage was uncovered, people liked her so much that they overlooked it. She’s smart!
Classic Music
Lavrentis Maxairitsas is…a male singer. Although he is Anthi’s favorite, she had a lot more to say about the people she didn’t like (which seems like the same deal as American pop music celebrities being far more newsworthy).
Giorgos Dalaras is another guy Anthi likes. This video has English subtitles, so you can even practice your Greek a bit!
What do you think? Do you prefer Bouzoukia or classic Greek music?
Okay, for your next letter…I want you to make me a makeup video! Show me how you get fancy and what Mary Kay products you like best! I need some fresh inspiration.
Love,
Tricia
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