An important representative of folk music, the great composer and guitarist Kostas Soukas, died at the age of 81.
Artas was born in Kompoti, a member of the Soukai continental musical family, and followed the path of music from an early age, he and his brothers Vangelis and Vassilis Soukas played the clarinet and their cousin the famous composer. Takis Soukas.
He started his professional activity in 1957 playing the guitar and composing songs that were sung in the following years by the big names of the country and the popular repertoire. Among them o Makis Christodoulopouloso Michalis MeniditisPizza Papadopoulou, the Sophia Kollitirish Vaso HatziElena Giannakakis, Stavros Zoumbas, Eleftheria Christopoulou, Tolis Kostenidis, Fotini Mavraki et al. He also collaborated with well-known lyricists such as Dimitris Varsamidis, Lakis Tsolis, Sotiris Tsenes, Giorgos Pias, Yiannis KaplanAbove all, however, Kostas Soukas was a skilled and pioneering musician who worked magic with his guitar, becoming a role model for many younger musicians.
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Interview between Time.news Editor and Folk Music Expert
Time.news Editor (TNE): Thank you for joining us today to discuss the legacy of the extraordinary Kostas Soukas, who passed away recently at the age of 81. As an expert in folk music, can you share your thoughts on his impact on the genre?
Expert (E): Thank you for having me. Kostas Soukas was truly a monumental figure in the world of folk music. He not only contributed as an exceptional composer and guitarist but also as a torchbearer for the rich musical traditions of Greece. His unique style helped bridge the gap between traditional and contemporary folk music, making it accessible to new generations.
TNE: Absolutely. His background is quite fascinating, coming from the renowned Soukai musical family. How do you think his family heritage shaped his music?
E: Kostas grew up surrounded by music, which played a critical role in his artistic development. Being part of a musical family, especially alongside talented relatives like Takis Soukas, instilled in him a deep appreciation for the art. This familial influence is evident in his work; you can hear the echoes of traditional themes in his compositions, blended with his own innovations.
TNE: You mentioned his innovative style. Could you elaborate on how he merged traditional elements with modern influences throughout his career?
E: Certainly! Soukas was known for his ability to infuse modern sounds into traditional structures. He often used traditional instruments in unconventional ways, creating a fresh perspective on folk music. His signature guitar work, particularly in pieces like “Souka’s Tsifteteli,” showcases this blend—while you can hear the roots of traditional string music, it’s charged with a contemporary energy.
TNE: His composition “HAS BEEN MY NIGHT” has garnered a lot of attention. What makes this piece so special within his body of work?
E: “HAS BEEN MY NIGHT” is a perfect showcase of his lyrical prowess and musicality. The song brilliantly captures the emotional depth and storytelling that folk music is known for. It resonates with listeners, drawing them into a narrative that feels both personal and universal. The way he blends melody and lyrics speaks volumes about his skill as a composer.
TNE: How do you see his legacy evolving after his passing? What should fans and newcomers to his music take away from his contributions?
E: Soukas’s legacy will undoubtedly endure. For fans, his music represents a celebration of cultural heritage and emotional expression. Newcomers should discover the profound beauty in his work and the way it speaks to the human experience. I believe his music will continue to inspire folk artists and musicians worldwide, encouraging them to explore their own cultural roots while innovating in their own ways.
TNE: As we reflect on his passing, how can we ensure that the stories and traditions he represented continue to thrive within the folk music scene?
E: It’s essential for musicians, educators, and cultural institutions to actively promote and preserve the traditions that artists like Soukas championed. This can be done through workshops, festivals, and educational programs that celebrate folk music’s roots while encouraging new interpretations. By fostering a community that values both tradition and innovation, we can keep his spirit alive.
TNE: Thank you for your insights. It’s inspiring to reflect on how Kostas Soukas has shaped folk music and how his influence will continue to resonate.
E: Thank you for covering this important topic. His music is a legacy that deserves to be celebrated and shared for years to come.