Laiko

Laiko, or laïkó, is a genre of Greek popular music that translates to "folk" or "popular" in Greek. It developed in the mid-20th century in urban Greece, especially Athens and Piraeus, as a mainstream evolution of earlier demotic songs and elements from rebetiko. Laiko absorbed traditional melodies and rhythms while aiming for broader accessibility, pairing simple, emotive lyrics with a contemporary sound.

Musically, laiko is characterized by direct vocal delivery and expressive storytelling. Instrumentation traditionally centers on the bouzouki, along with guitar, accordion, and violin, with electric guitars, keyboards, and synthesizers becoming common in modern productions. Songs often explore themes of love, heartache, daily life, and social changes, reflecting urban experiences.

The genre underwent significant modernization from the 1950s onward, dominating the Greek popular music scene for decades. It spawned a range of sub-styles, from classic laiko to contemporary variants that blend pop, dance, and electronic elements. Laiko remains a dominant force in radio, nightclubs, and live performance, continuing to evolve while retaining its core emphasis on accessible, emotionally direct songs.

Notable artists associated with laiko include Stelios Kazantzidis, Marinella, Haris Alexiou, and Tolis Voskopoulos, who helped define the classic sound, as well as later figures such as Despina Vandi, who represented newer, more pop-influenced directions. Laiko remains a central thread in the tapestry of Greek popular music, closely linked to the urban cultural and social history of modern Greece.