Greek singer Antonis Remos has reflected on the challenges he has faced throughout his 30 year career, saying he has drawn strength from the continued support of his audience.
Speaking on the vidcast Esy Ti Mousiki Akous? with Theologos Iliou, Remos discussed his career, criticism from others and the determination that has kept him going.
“I have fought very hard. Whatever I was given, I earned through a lot of struggle and determination,” Remos said.
“Many would have wanted me to give up. But I am not giving up. Many would have wanted to see me on the floor and see me finished, but I feel that I am too tough to die, as the title of an old film went.”
Remos said the love he has received from his audience over the past three decades continues to give him strength.
“I draw a great deal of strength from the love of the people for 30 years. I receive love without stopping,” he said.
“I have no guilt about anything”
Remos was also asked whether he feels people are waiting for an opportunity to criticise or blame him.
“I don’t know if they are waiting around the corner,” he said. “I feel that I have no guilt about anything they want to accuse me of.”
“I feel that my conscience is clear. I am proud of all my rights and all my mistakes. Because mistakes must also happen in life, as long as you recognise them.”
The singer added that he believes he has never deliberately harmed or wronged another person.
“Above all, I have not hurt anyone. I believe I have not wronged anyone, and from there I move forward with my life with respect and love,” he said.
The story behind “Etsi Xafnika”
During the interview, Remos also spoke about the late songwriter Antonis Vardis and how he came to record the much-loved song “Etsi Xafnika”.
Remos described the song as the “first gift” Vardis gave him, recalling the importance of the legendary songwriter’s contribution to his career.
The interview comes as Remos marks 30 years in Greek music, reflecting on a career that has made him one of the country’s most recognisable contemporary singers.
