ENTERTAINMENT

Well done Andrew Lambrou came a highly respectable 12th out of 26 countries at the Eurovision Song Conest final at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool, on Saturday night, the 13th of May 2023.

The Cypriot artist has written himself into Eurovision immortality, with one of the best Cypriot results in the event.

Cyprus broadcaster CyBC confirmed that up-and-coming Cypriot Australian star Andrew Lambrou would fly the flag at the Eurovision Song Contest in Liverpool last year.

After weeks of teasing the world with only the singer and a snippet, “Break a Broken Heart”, the Cyprus Eurovision entry by Mr Lambrou was finally released.

We were promised a strong mid-tempo song and Andrew has certainly lived up to that script, releasing his Eurovision music video for “Break a Broken Heart” in March.

The Cypriot song is certainly catchy and a radio friendly number, which has already entered London Greek Radio playlists.

Born in Sydney to Greek Cypriot parents, Andrew learnt piano, and at 5-years-of age he won 1st place in a school competition. He originally sung his way to relative stardom, covering the likes of Evanescence, Harry Styles, Camilla Cabello and Sam Smith.

In 2015, when Andrew was just 17 years old, he finished in the top 20 in The X Factor Australia. This included a stopover in London at the five-seat challenge with his mentor, singing legend, Chris Isaak where he performed in front of music mogul Simon Cowell and pop star Rita Ora.

That same year, he was noticed by Sony ATV and was signed by Maree Hamblion. Since then, he has released a string of singles, “Throne”, “Lemonade”, “Confidence” and “Electrify”.

Next stop, Liverpool. Tony Neophytou caught up with Andrew Lambrou while in between soundchecks and tours of the press circuit at the arena.

Q. You’ve finally made it to Liverpool, and you’ve been rehearsing on the stage, it must be a special feeling, right?

A. Yeah, it really is. It’s so special, to be finally on the stage and to see what it all looks like has been mind-blowing for me. And there is so much anticipation when it comes to Eurovision. Such a build-up and so to finally get up on stage… I could picture it; I could picture all the people in the crowd. And I could picture what I will all feel like special and mind-blowing.

Cyprus will be staged with the help of Austrian artistic director Marvin Dietmann and Ross Nicholson from London’s world-renowned directors Black Skull. The involvement of the Austrian and British creatives highlights the Cypriot ambition to impress at this competition.

A. Yeah, sure did, Marvin and Russ are absolutely amazing at what they do, and I really feel like I’m working with the best in the world and that’s something really encouraging for me for an artist to feel that support, to feel that level of expertise on the team. I can’t fault a single thing that Marvin and Russ they know what they’re doing and for me that’s extremely special because I know I am in great hands.

Q. The Cypriot entry ebbs and flows constantly with a built-up, excitement throughout the song. The visuals are matching the growth and dynamics and elevates the song’s strengths and it culminates with fire-lit stage!…

A. Yeah for sure, I really wanted to build when it comes to the song, I want the end to have built up to a point where it is just the big explosion at the end you know, and I’m really proud of the song and I’m excited to get on stage and deliver that for everybody. The most important things for me are the ability to connect to the song. I want people to feel what I am singing. I want people to feel the lyrics, the passion coming out of my body through the tv screens, to the people in the arena. And if I can execute that plan than I’m over the moon.

Q. “Break a Broken Heart”, why was this the song which spoke to you?

A. It is a big decision when it comes to a Eurovision song, I wanted it to be something authentic. I wanted it to be something I could relate to personally. Because I feel that really shines through on stage and I want people to connect to it. And the song has such a great impact for me it did anyway. When I first heard it and I heard that big Ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh… note at the start, it just captivated me. And I said ok, what is this song, and then I just wanted to listen to it more and more after that. So when it comes to Eurovision there are so many fans who keep up to date with what’s happening in the Eurovision world, but there are many people who tune in and don’t actually listen to the songs beforehand. They are just ready to watch the show. So, for me I wanted it to grab you quickly and I feel that this song did that for me, so the goal was to do that for the people at home.

The song was written to suit Andrew’s vocal and is a rather vocally demanding song, requiring his full skills as a singer to be on-point.

Q. Impressive vocals Andrew, did you want a song that would actually stretch you vocally?

A. Yes, I did. I wanted a song’s that gonna be impactful and to show what I am capable of on the biggest stage on the world. Although it might be a bit daunting with such a big vocal. I have really worked as hard as I can to make this song really comfortable myself and I feel comfortable at this point, which is great.

Andrew Lambrou delivers an impassioned vocal performance that gives voice to anyone who has felt like at the lowest point. Because of a break-up and lyrics speak of perseverance and strength developed through strength.

The vocals are on-point and sung with emotional intensity and sincerity.

A. Yeah, thank you so much that’s probably one of the greatest compliments I have gotten so far, and people are really loving my vocals, and that all comes down to how hard I’ve been working and practicing this song and feeling as comfortable as I possibly can. It’s just trying to compliment the visuals with the audio.

Q. What is the ambition, Andrew? It’s your 25th birthday in May, what would be a lovely birthday gift, qualification, I am guessing reaching the final? I am sure you will do just fine; you won’t be breaking Cyprus hearts (to coin a phrase).

A. (Laughs) 100% correct that would be the ultimate birthday gifts for me, I don’t think anyone has to get me birthday gifts for the rest of my life after that (laughs).

Q. I’ve been following your Eurovision journey for quite some time, with Australia Decides 2022, looking back on it, do you think that gives you much needed Eurovision experience?

A. Yeah, I believe everything happens for a reason and to introduce me to the Eurovision world and going on to the stage it gave me some experience and it also taught me a few lessons too and now that I am fortunate enough to be in this position now, I am using all the knowledge I’ve got from the past into play now.

Q. There is a minor tradition with diaspora artists in Eurovision, such as Lisa Andreas and Andy Paul, former UK Cypriot acts of past Eurovision editions. What was the reaction from fellow Australians and Aussie Cypriot diaspora to your act?

A. It’s been fantastic, I can’t really complain at all. The love and support I’ve been getting over in Australia from the Greek Cypriot community has been something giving me so much motivation, so I am a very happy man with a big smile on my face. I can’t wait to make as many people as proud as I can.

Q. Was time taken aside for Greek Easter, amidst the rehearsals…

A. I had a typical Greek Orthodox Easter making flaounes and pafkia which is a version of flaouna with meat inside it that only comes from Paphos where my grandparents come from in Cyprus. So, we kept with the traditions, and we went and saw some family and it was really great just to unwind and to forget about things for a minute, and just to spend time with loved ones.

I can see from Instagram you were ‘baking’ flaounas, in terms of keeping up with tradition and culture I heard you love modern Greek music, Laika and zeimbekika…?

A. That’s for sure, at any event you can see me dancing the kalamatiano to all the classics and I’m not as good as my dad at doing the zeimbekiko that’s for sure. My dad is the professional but I’m trying to follow in his footsteps.

Q. What do you think about before a performance?

A. For me it’s about staying calm. To stay calm I think about what is important to me. I think about things outside the Eurovision world, I think about my family, my loved ones, my passion for music, and grateful I am to be here right now. I’d like to take a deep breath and understand I’m here to do what I like to do. So that’s my goal, my little ritual beforehand. It’s all about staying calm for me.

Q. Post-Eurovision, any thoughts…

A. I want to travel, and I want to release more music…

Thank you, Andrew Lambrou and the best of luck, to you and the Cypriot delegation.

The Cypriot star absolutely smashed that performance, absolutely fair play to him!

You can follow Andrew on Instagram @andrew_lambrou, where he already boasts almost 500k followers. Andrew was doing impressive TikTok numbers before announcing Eurovision, now at 700k followers and climbing.

May 2023


Article written by Tony Neophytou

Greece has selected Victor Vernicos Jorgensen as the act to represent the nation in the Eurovision Song Contest 2023 at the Liverpool arena.

16-year-old singer-songwriter who is of Greek-Danish descend, born in Athens, is the youngest Greek act ever to compete.

Victor with a deep, unique vocal-timbre is performing his introspective song about stress and anxiety.

What They Say“, a song that oozes a mid-tempo ballad flair, also delivers an optimistic message to encourage those struggling mentally to overcome stress. Victor wrote it as a 14-year-old boy.

He released a song “Hope It’s In Heaven” at the age of just 14. Victor was then signed to Royal Music and 25/7 Management. Last year, Victor released his official debut song as a professional artist “Fake Club”.

Victor was taught piano at the age of 4-years-old, with vocal and guitar lessons which followed. Victor then went into music production and has been writing his own songs since he was 11. He has been editing the production of his own music and in attendance of Music Technology classes.

With his rehearsals under way for Liverpool at the M&S Bank Arena, Tony Neophytou caught up with Victor to learn a little more…

You’ve stepped onto the Liverpool Arena. What’s it like performing on stage?

I love the Liverpool Arena. It is amazing, the M&S Bank Arena!…

You’re of mixed heritage, half-Danish, half-Greek, born and bred in Marousi, Athens and you speak quite good English, at home which language prevails?

We speak both English and Greek, not much Danish. I speak more Greek with my mum; my dad has been living in Greece for 25 years. when we’re all together we speak English. In Liverpool we speak English… (Tony: are you learning Liverpudlian?) I am trying too (laughs).

You have a unique vocal fibre and it’s a mature voice. After playing your song to fellow colleagues without revealing your age, they were completely astounded to know you are just 16

It’s a huge compliment. I am working on the voice, I’ve always thought my strength was song-writing, and it’s come to the stage (voice) its likeable at least, and people like the fact its deep and I’m young, that’s cool.

What They Say” is a self-penned song. You’ve stamped your personality and authenticity and honesty on the song.

I write and produce my own songs. I wrote this song when I was 14 years old. it is truly one of the most open and honest songs I have ever written. I try to write my songs with honesty and that’s the most important part for me, and that’s why I think it has a stamp on it and my personality comes because of the honesty. I mean we are all unique, and when you’re honest that uniqueness comes out because you allow it too.

(Tony) The lyrics have a great depth about anxieties, and stress you felt once. The introspective song is fusing intense feelings, melancholy, frustration, angst and finishes with optimistic undertone

It was about my first ever experience with anxiety when I was 13 years old and that was my understanding reality. I got overwhelmed by the feeling of anxiety hit me, the fear of responsibility of fear in my heart. Because managers from the US and UK started to get involved. It was a lot of responsibility to take on at such an age, and in that moment, I picked reality, it was a defining moment where I understood it was reality, you get what you give out. In that moment, I picked is it going to be reality or stay anxious or stay at home, no it’s not going to happen, and two and years later I’m at Eurovision.

It is a liberation of the end of it. The song is a monologue, and I can feel it in the second verse. It’s like ranting to your best friend and I when I get on that stage, I’ll be ranting to let go of my fears and getting on the biggest stage in the world and actually becoming an artist. My goals are huge. It’s going to be a defining moment and with all my strength finally let go of everything, I think. I hope. Honestly, it’s going to be the best experience.

I just put it all together in my head right now, as we’re speaking. I really feel it honestly. Now you’ve really helped me to clear my head… (Tony Neo: that’s what I am good at conversation), you’re good, I am not surprised. I understood that from the first moment we spoke… you’re amazing man!

(Tony) I instantly liked it from the first verse, “Late August” it’s because 26th August, it’s my birthday. August, it’s the eight-month, too, lucky number eight.

Late August… that’s really cool I’ll send you a happy birthday on the 26th of August. Ooh that was smart… yes, we are coming up in the second semi-final, we are performing eight place and yes “late August”, so I hope we’re not going to be late. I guess that’s the lucky number…

Konstantinos Rigos is responsible for the stage concept, and it’s quite creative. There’s youthful exuberance with bits of choreo, digital selfies and Greek alphabet letters, on the graphics. Victor, you move quite a bit on stage...

The staging is to show my athleticism because I do sports (not to show I am sporty), but to express the song to bring that energy forward, because I have a lot of that energy. I mean it’s the release we talked about before when it comes to balancing the vocal and the movement. We have 100% sat that down. It is all about technique and the voice. It is counting your breath.

With Eurovision I am learning to be a better performer every day. Eurovision is honestly turning me into the best version of myself when it comes to an artist. No matter what, Eurovision is a really great experience and it’s given me a lot to think about and practice on.

You are studying online from a London school, is that right?

Minerva’s Virtual Academy I love that school it has honestly given me a lot of flexibility and freedom to do what I need to do Eurovision and music in general. I stopped going to physical school and started going to this school in September (last year). I have gained 20 to 25 hours per week on music. and I wouldn’t have made that change to (online schooling) to do Eurovision.

LGR wishes you and Greece, the best of luck, in the competition.

You can follow Victor on instagram @victorvernicos.

Greece competes in Semi-Final 2 on Thursday, May 11th. Victor is #8 in the running order of 16 countries.

May 2023


Article written by Tony Neophytou

My Name Is Eftihia, a film about the life of the greatest Greek female lyricist is released in UK cinemas.

My Name is Eftihia, the 8-time Hellenic Academy-Award winning biographical drama, including Best Film, about the life and times of the Greek lyricist and songwriter Eftihia Papagiannopoulou is coming to the big screen across the UK on Friday, March 24!

The film narrates the life story of one of the most important Greek lyricists, Eftihia Papagianopoulou, whose songs rose to prominence in the 1950s and 1960s and still remain popular, and who wasn’t widely known or recognised until her death in the early 1970s.

It’s a great opportunity to gather family members and friends to experience this true story and moving film on the big screen.

A young girl, recently married, is traveling from Aidini to Greece with her mother and her two daughters. On board the ship she decides not to let life pass her by, but to live her own way. And she goes ahead! She writes endlessly wherever she can, on napkins and cigarette boxes, to bills. She smokes, she passionately falls in love, casually gambles in luxurious salons, but also in illegal basements. A teacher who becomes an actress and plays in streets and in theatres, a poet who becomes the greatest Greek folk songwriter. She collaborates with all the famous music personalities of the country, from Vassilis Tsitsanis and Apostolos Kaldaras to Manolios Ηiotis, Antonis Repanis and Manos Hadjidakis, bravely asserting herself to a cruel and typically male-dominated world.

Eftihia stands as the 5th highest grossing Greek film of all-time. The film is written by Katerina Bei, directed by Angelos Frantzis and starring Kariofilia Karabeti, Katia Goulioni, Pigmalion Dadakaridis, Thanos Tokakis and Dina Michailidou. EFTIHIA is produced by Tanweer Productions with Dionyssis Samiotis serving as Producer, alongside Costas Lambropoulos, Yiorgos Kiriakis and Natali Douka serving as Executive Producers.

Eftihia is a Tanweer Production with Co-producers: COSMOTE TV, Splendidway Universe, Viewmaster Films, and Executive Producers Viewmaster Films. With the support of EKOME.

In your local Cineworld, Odeon, and Vue Cinemas from March 24th.

Art House cinema Crouch End London from 31st of March.

Cineworld: Enfield, Wood Green
Everyman Cinema: Barnet
Odeon Cinema: Holloway, Lea Valley (Edmonton)
Vue Cinema: North Finchley, Harrow

As advertised on London Greek Radio.

#mynameiseftihia

Published: 24/03/2023

London Greek Radio is available on 103.3FM in London | Digital Radio in Birmingham, London & Manchester | Mobile | Tablet | Online at www.lgr.co.uk | Alexa Enabled Devices & Smart Speakers “Play London Greek Radio”


Article written by London Greek Radio

Greece has selected Victor Vernicos Jorgensen as the act to represent the nation in the Eurovision Song Contest 2023 at the Liverpool arena.

The talented 16-year-old singer-songwriter who is of Greek-Danish descend, born in Athens, is the youngest Greek act ever to compete.

“What They Say”, is a mid-tempo, melodic ballad. He describes it as “emotional” and heart-felt. The lyrics are about anxiety and stress.

Mr Vernicos said his song was written from his own experiences, feelings of anxiety and stress he felt once.

Victor won the coveted ticket to Eurovision through its internal selection, which announced its decision last month. He was chosen after combining votes from the ERT jury and the audience committee.

The Eurovision mix to the song is being recorded with a producer Vangelis Yalamas, at Modern Music Arts Studio, in Glyfada. The date of its release and the official video-clip is expected in March.

He is signed up to Panik Records, who will release the single soon.

“This is my favourite song”, Victor said about his entry, and we are guessing he is super-excited to have saved it as his Eurovision song.

LGR’s Eurovision fanatic, Tony Neophytou said: “Victor is a singer-songwriter with a deep, unique vocal-timbre and a self-penned song which arises from innate feelings, too, with a linear of authenticity and honesty, which could be assets”.

Mr Vernicos strongly believes in the song’s merits, with optimistic remarks about its chances to win. “I think it’s admirable to have a ‘competitive spirit’,” LGR’s reviewer reckons. “The semi-finals are very competitive this year, it’s 100% televoting, a strong staging and a good song helps a lot”.

In Mr Neophytou’s view, “Victor is a likeable artist, very focused with a positive mindset, which bodes well for the song’s fate.”

He released a song “Hope It’s In Heaven” at the age of just 14. Victor was then signed to Royal Music and 25/7 Management. Last year, Victor released his official debut song as a professional artist “Fake Club”.

Victor was taught piano at the age of 4-years-old, vocal (8) and guitar lessons (10) . Victor then went into music production and has been writing his own songs since he was 11. He has been editing the production of his own music and in attendance of Music Technology classes.

You can follow his Eurovision adventure on instagram @victorvernicos.

Greece will compete in the first half of the second semi-final in Liverpool on May 11th. The Top 10 qualifiers are through to the final on May 13th at the M&S Bank Arena.

London Greek Radio wishes Victor and Greece the best of luck in the competition.


Article written by Tony Neophytou

The “voice of the Cypriot countryside”, traditional singer Kyriakou Pelagia died on Saturday at the age of 86, her relatives announced on social media.

Known as Mastorissa, as her colleagues called her for her unique interpretation of Cypriot folk songs, Pelagia had given another dimension to the genre bringing youth closer to folk music.

Government officials, political parties as well as the general public expressed their condolences to the family while praising the Cypriot singer’s voice and character.

“Kyriakou Pelagia was the voice of tradition,” the office of the president-elect Nikos Christodoulides said in a statement.

“[She] was loved by the world like few other traditional singers because of her unique voice, her special interpretation, spontaneity, simplicity and ethics, inspiring and paving the way for younger performers to become involved in traditional Cypriot singing,” the statement added.

In his own tweet, the outgoing president Nicos Anastasiades said Pelagia’s death is a “great loss for the culture of our country”.

“With her voice and the Cypriot folk song, she succeeded in teaching the Cypriot culture to our young people,” he added.

“The Cypriot tradition is poorer as of today,” the Green Party said earlier in the day.

Traditional song performer Michalis Hadjimichael also shared a small farewell poem on Facebook for his former collaborator, highlighting the great loss in the music world.

Born in Paralimni on July 8, 1936, Pelagia was the daughter of the traditional singer Damianos Kouzalis and Maria Koutsoluka who had an appreciation of traditional songs.

The singer is known for her major hits Ipa sou htenistou lion and Pertidji mou mitsostomo, the result of her collaboration with Hadjimichael in his musical group Mesogios.

Pelagia was excellent both in singing but also tsatisma and poetry. In 1987 she published the poetry collection Cypriot Verse.

Her funeral was held at the Ayios Georgios church in Paralimni, presided by Bishop Vasilios of Constantia and Famagusta after people were allowed to pay their respects earlier on Sunday afternoon.

Before the start of the funeral procession, musicians sang the traditional Cypriot song “Ta Niata”. The eulogy was delivered on behalf of the family by her granddaughter, Solia Pelagia, Deputy Minister of Culture Yiannis

Toumazis on behalf of the President of the Republic, the Mayor of Paralimni Theodoros Pyrillis and Michalis Hadjimichael on behalf of the artists’ community.

Also attending were transport minister Yiannis Karousos, Disy leader Averof Neophytou and other officials.

Referring to her grandmother, Solia Pelagia said: “You kept talking to us about your two great loves. One was the house in Varosha. You left my grandmother with the sorrow of not returning to your home. Your other great love, which you talked to us about constantly, was tradition. You loved music very much. You made us proud and with your melodious voice you left us your songs, a huge cultural heritage. You were loved by many people.”

Toumazis described the singer as “a genuine traditional performer” and “the voice of the Cypriot countryside”.

“Kyriakou Pelagia belongs to the category of people who make use of the natural gifts with which they are endowed, but also what they managed to develop during their lives for the benefit of society,” he added.

The procession from the church to the local cemetery in Paralimni was accompanied by violins and lutes. The funeral costs were borne by the municipality to honour the late singer.

She had two sons and a daughter with her husband Georgios.

LGR express their condolences to Kyriakou Pelagia’s family and friends.


Article written by Jean Christou, Gina Agapiou, Cyprus Mail, London Greek Radio

Cyprus has confirmed that Andrew Lambrou as the act to represent the nation in the Eurovision Song Contest 2023 at Liverpool Arena.

The 24-year-old Australian-born Cypriot singer-songwriter was internally selected with the announcement made in October.

Andrew is represented by his New York based Saiko Management.

In a video published on his social media, Andrew said, “(I am) proud of (my) Cypriot heritage roots” and recently made his first-ever promo-tour to Cyprus.

Cypriot chiefs confirmed that Andrew has already recorded the song to represent Cyprus in Stockholm recently.

The Swedish songwriters are well-known in Eurovision circles, namely Thomas Stengaard, Jimmy “Joker” Thornfeldt, Jimmy Jansson and Marcus Winther-John.

It was reported that the song was written to suit Andrew’s vocal and is a rather vocally-demanding song, requiring his full skills as a singer to be on-point.

Lambrou said he is focused on working on the stage craft specifics, aiming to deliver a slick and aesthetically-pleasing act. Meanwhile, Austrian creative director Martin Dietmann, elevates the song’s chances in terms of its stage presentation.

The date for the release of the song has not been announced, leaving fans in eager anticipation.

LGR’s Eurovision fanatic, Tony Neophytou said, “My first reaction is that Andrew seems like a likeable, disciplined and talented soulful-artist, with really nice vocals.”

He added, “He requires a well-made competitive tune, especially given how the stakes are even higher now with purely tele-voting semi-finals shaking things up. It’ll be exciting to follow all of the moments leading up to the contest in Liverpool.”

Born in Sydney to Greek Cypriot parents, Andrew has always been passionate about his music. He learnt piano at school, and at just 5-years-of age he won first place in a competition at his AMS Music School, singing “Do-Re-Mi” from The Sound of Music.

He originally sung his way to relative stardom, covering the likes of Evanescence, Harry Styles, Camilla Cabello and Sam Smith..

In 2015, when Andrew was just 17-years-old, he finished in the top 20 in The X Factor Australia. This included a stop-over in London at the five-seat challenge with his mentor, singing legend, Chris Isaak where he performed in front of music mogul Simon Cowell and pop star Rita Ora.

That same year, he was noticed by Sony ATV and was signed by Maree Hamblion. His debut single, “Throne”, was released in 2021, with follow-up singles “Lemonade”, “Confidence” and “Electrify”.

Lambrou was a finalist at “Eurovision: Australia Decides” last year, equipping the young man with some incredibly useful insights into this competition.

You can follow Andrew on Instagram @andrew_lambrou, where he already boasts almost 500k followers. Andrew was doing impressive TikTok numbers before announcing Eurovision, now at 700k followers and climbing.

Cypriot bosses are keen to recover from the setback of finishing 12th with Andromache last year, narrowly losing its place at the final.

The Cypriot delegation which comprises Evi Papamichail, assistant, Alexia Moutafidou, and its Head of Press Andreas Anastasiou are quietly confident of their chances at reviving Cypriot fortunes, in the competition.

Cyprus is competing in Semi-Final 2 on May 11th and aiming at progression to the final on May 13th at Liverpool Arena.

London Greek Radio wishes Andrew and the Cypriot delegation the best of luck.


Article written by Tony Neophytou

The seven acts in the running to represent Greece at the Eurovision Song Contest 2023 have been revealed.

The acts were shortlisted from 106 entries received by ERT following a request for submissions last year.

The winner will be chosen by a combination of jury panel and audience vote.

The voting is split into (i) a 7-persons jury panel, and (ii), a 70-person ‘Audience Committee’.

2,982 fanatic fans have responded to sit as “audience”, places were allocated through a random draw. The lucky 70 individuals were placed into ‘focus groups’ strictly according to age demographics. Its share of the vote is 50.6%, while jurists, other 49.4%. The “audience” have spoken and cast their verdict at a voting session held last month, in Athens.

Greek bosses are teasing fans about its Eurovision 2024 plans, meanwhile. ERT’s president Konstantinos Zoulas, speaking in December said, “we are planning something more, than a national final or ethnikos telikos, (translated)” for next year.

Take a look at the contenders below.

Antonia Kaouri & Maria Maragkou – “Shout Out!” 
Konstantina Iosifidou – “We are Young”
Klavdia – “Holy Water”
Leon of Athens – “Somewhere to Go”
Melissa Mantzoukis – “Liar” 
Monika – “I’ m Proud”
Victor Vernicos – “What They Say”

Updated: 19/01/2023 (Top 3 finalists) 

Antonia Kaouri & Maria Maragkou, Melissa Mantzoukis, Victor Vernicos 

Antonia Kaouri and Maria Maragkou’s entry is an English-language ‘up-tempo pop-rock’ song. Antonia is a former Voice of Greece act and Maria, a Greek actress.

Konstantina Iosifidou is a 22-year-old, former contestant on The Voice of Greece. “We Are Young” is an English-language ‘rock-pop ballad’.

Klavdia, is a newcomer artist and a former contestant, on The Voice of Greece. “Holy Water” is a ‘slow, melodic ballad’, with a social-conscience lyric. She’s working with Arcade, a team of music producers, who as co-writers of Greece’s entry in 2021, have Eurovision pedigree, too.

Leon of Athens is a recording artist and songwriter. The entry here is ‘up-tempo’ 80’s synth pop. He worked on the final version of this song, with singer and songwriter David Sneddon, who he co-wrote “Better Love” (Greece, 2019), with too. He co-writes it with Katerine Duska. Their latest single/duet “Babel” is a radio-friendly hit, on LGR.

Melissa Mantzoukis, 18-year-old German-Greek singer, she was a finalist on the “Deutschland sucht den Superstar” the German equivalent to Pop Idol. It is a mainstream song, which is ‘up-tempo pop-dance’ about female empowerment. The songwriters from Greece and the Netherlands.

Monika – real name Monica Christodoulou, is a singer-songwriter . Monika wrote the original soundtrack to “The Lost Daughter” recently, which means she is causing waves on the world-stage, too. “I’m Proud”, is ‘melodic’ and ‘mid-tempo’.

Victor Vernicos is a part-Danish/Greek singer-songwriter. The song is a ‘mid-tempo ballad’ and ’emotional’, about human stress and anxiety. Victor’s unique vocal timbre may be an asset, too. At just 16-years-old, Victor shows a lot of maturity.

Greek bosses will meet with artists and representatives from their record labels to assess their plans, before finalising their scores. As in recent years, the record label’s plans for Eurovision have been an important part of the final decision.

The Eurovision semi-finals are airing on 9th and 11th May and the grand final is on May 13th at Liverpool Arena.

Published: 22/01/2023


Article written by London Greek Radio

London Cypriot singer-songwriter Antigoni Buxton has entered the “Love Island” villa on ITV 2’s reality dating programme.

The series, which is filmed in Mallorca, introduced Antigoni on Wednesday 22nd June.

Show bosses had teased the new “bombshell” twist on the previous night’s cliff-hanger.

The 26-year-old North London musician is a long-time friend of LGR and she impressed her fellow islanders, with one islander heard saying that Antigoni is a “ray of sunshine” and “on the friendship level she is lovely”.

It appears that her warmth and radiance also won her TV admirers with the programme’s fervent fan-base.  Many avid viewers of the show had taken to Twitter to applaud her “good-natured vibes and positive energy”, instantly becoming a fan favourite of the show.

Antigoni was signed to Island Records when she was just 20 years old and has gone on to have a successful start to her music career.

Her latest single “Hit List” released last month, mixes R’n’B with Greek/Cypriot elements and has already entered London Greek Radio playlist in recent weeks.

Antigoni is the daughter of celebrity chef Tonia Buxton, who’s a regular guest on “Sunday Bunch” on TV.

Tonia is also the consultant chef at The Real Greek restaurants and the presenter of “My Greek Kitchen” and “My Cypriot Kitchen” on the Discovery Channel.

Antigoni previously dated 2018 contestant Jack Fowler for a few months, but their romance fizzled out.

Prior to dating Jack, Antgoni was in a nine-year relationship with her childhood sweetheart but they split so that she could focus on her music.

You can follow Antigoni on Instagram @antigoni, where she already boasts almost 140,000 followers.

It’s worth reminding everyone about something that Cypriots already know, and that is that the original “Love Island” is of course, Cyprus, the island of the Greek Goddess of Love, Aphrodite!

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Article written by Tony Neophytou

With the Eurovision Song Contest 2022 tonight, singer Andromache missed out on the chance to represent Cyprus in this year’s final at the weekend.

All eyes were on the Greek girl on Thursday night as 2022’s entry took to the stage singing “Ela” in the second of this year’s semi-finals.

The 27-year-old newcomer’s full name is Andromachi Dimitropoulou and she was born in Germany and raised in Ilia, Greece.

Andromache was hoping to follow in the footsteps of Elena Tsagrinou, Tamta, and Eleni Foureira whose results helped Cyprus to consecutive finals, from 2015 to 2021.

Qualifying for the final at Cyprus’ expense was Belgium, Czech Republic, Azerbaijan, Poland, Finland, Estonia, Australia, Sweden, Romania and Serbia.

Cypriot bosses stuck to the formulae, of internally picking a singer and song-package with Andromache mixing traditional Greek folk and Byzantine, with modern music.

The track is an ethno song that embellishes the instrument of bouzouki and the flute which blends into the ensemble, giving this track a more modernised touch, mixing old and new.

The percussions and the bouzouki add some magical reverie to the song.

LGR’s Eurovision fanatic said, “When I first heard this it felt hypnotising and catchy enough, with its nice melodic embellishments.”

“This is a really good radio song which has soared to top of London Greek Radio play-lists, in recent weeks”.

“On reflection Cyprus is a radio friendly song, perhaps it requires other elements translating it to the stage. It is a lovely tune, chilled and laidback, with maybe its lack of a build-up holding it back as a Eurovision competitive song entry,” Mr Neophytou commented.

Tony Neophytou furthermore said, “I don’t know, maybe she felt nervous at first verse, and gradually felt more in her stride and composure at the Greek choruses. She grew in confidence, and smiles, as the song was progressing…”

Her performance was met with rapturous applause from the audience.

“The attractive Andromache was standing inside a sea shell structure. The imagery was conjuring up Cypriot exotic flavours, and motifs. She was like a mermaid or maybe a wink, to the Cypriot myth of Aphrodite’s birth, at sea.”

Her female dancers Despina Lagoudaki and Nefeli Theodotou were at either side.

Andromache’s choreographed arm movements, or armography and her dancers give it a fusion of energy.

“Three girls are the Cypriot equivalent to ‘Charlie’s Angels‘,” (Tony quips).

“The staging was aesthetically-pleasing bathed in lots of warm colours. The blue and golden lighting, swept across the sea shell structure and stage reminiscent of Cypriot flag colours, which was a beautiful aesthetic.” Mr Neophytou underscores.

CyBc made the official announcement along with title of her entry “Ela” earlier this year. The song is written by Alex Papaconstantinou, or Alex P, a Greek-Swedish producer, well-known in Eurovision circles.

He collaborates on the tune with Cypriot singer-songwriter Giorgos Papadopoulos, Arash, Eyelar Mirzazadeh, Fatjon Miftaraj, Filloreta Raci Fifi, Geraldo Sandell, Robert Uhlmann, Viktor Svensson and Yll Limani.

Andromache is signed to Panik Records, whose roster includes former Eurovision predecessors such as Ivi Adamou, Demy, Eleni Foureira and Anna Vissi and Elena Tsagrinou.

Thank you to Andromache and the Cypriot delegation for their efforts and roll on 2023, with Cyprus’ pick of the next act and tune.

The Eurovision Final takes place on Saturday night at 8pm.


Article written by Tony Neophytou

Singer-Songwriter Amanda Georgiadi Tenfjord on Tuesday night qualified for the Eurovision Grand Final with her song “Die Together”.

This year, the Eurovision Song Contest takes place in Turin, at PalaOlimpico and the 25-year-old, who is studying to be a doctor, is a half Greek and half Norwegian singer-songwriter, born in Ioannina, Greece and raised in Norway.

Of the 17 competing countries, Greece was one of the 10 that gained enough votes from professional juries and the public to advance to Saturday night’s sing-off.

This is the twelfth time that Greece has qualified for a Eurovision since 2008.

“Die Together” was a “grower” on the London Greek Radio play-lists peaking at #5 in recent weeks.

The introspective song, has the sounds of a strong, melodic electro-pop ballad with emotional overtones which seem to cut deep. It’s a break-up song about a genuine relationship that’s expected to tear at the heart-strings.

Amanda has co-written the track with fellow Norwegian producer and songwriter, Bjørn Helge Gammelsæterx.

LGR’s Eurovision fanatic Tony Neophytou said, “Amanda’s beautiful, captivating performance felt emotional, and intense. Her vocals were on-point, as in yesterday’s jury voting dress rehearsal.

“Goosebumps… man!” Mr Neophytou recollects.

“The camera zooms into a close-up in the acapella section as it gradually builds up with wider stage shots of blue melting chairs. The visually-arresting act is well-crafted and thought out”. Amanda said the imagery of melting chairs is “symbolising break-ups or things coming to an end…”

The dancing silhouettes on-screen added a nice tough. The excellent camera-work complimented Amanda’s story-telling narrative, which underscores this song.

“Her soaring melodies combined with vocal hooks gives the tune that feel of a competitive package as Greece embarks on a Top 10 placement.” LGR’s reviewer furthermore noted.

“The Greek staging was immaculate and well-executed. It was sufficiently subdued and effective, and every single frame and shot was thought-out, presenting a slick, professional routine.”

The singer’s creative staging director is Fokas Evangelinos, a well-known figure in Eurovision circles, tasked with the elevation of her song.

In Mr Neophytou’s view, “Amanda in a white frock is emoting throughout, the song’s three minutes. A stage bathed in whites and blues, not only are these Greek flag colours which is a nice aesthetic. These colours suit it’s sad and melancholic undertones. The blinking lighting effects were in sync with its electro-pop beats, and the crescendo or climatic ‘die together‘ choruses.”

Amanda gave a strong, stoic and dramatic performance. Her frantic, hand gestures to her “Take my heart and rip it out and bring it to the other side” line, in the bridge, intensified the emotion that is felt, on the stage.”

Amanda was second favourite to win Semi-Final 1, with Ukraine still odds-on favourite to win Eurovision. The full results of these semis are released post-Eurovision night.

The Eurovision Song Contest Final is broadcast on Saturday 14th May on BBC1.

London Greek Radio wishes Greece the very best of luck in the competition.


Article written by Tony Neophytou