Michalis Hatzigiannis at skai.gr: “Our music surpasses us all”

By Marina Charalambous

Counting over two decades of continuous presence in the music scene, Michalis Hatzigiannis continues to write his own special career, with songs that have marked generations.

With songs such as “Touch of the Soul”, “The Bottom” and “I Love You”, he has written his own chapter in the hearts of the public. Michalis Hatzigiannis continues to inspire and create. Creative, true and dedicated to his music, speaks at skai.gr in an in -depth interview about timelessness, changes in industry, the power of love and his deep faith in the power of evolution.

An artist who, although loved by the audience, has not remained unaffected by the negative comments that have been heard at times, either for his appearance or for his voice. He admits that in his first steps he was influenced by him, but today he chooses to keep only well -intentioned reviews, those that can help him evolve.

Many years have passed since the beginning of your career. What keeps an artist “alive” and meaningful in time?

Creativity and work. Winning the bet of timelessness is a constant effort. As French writer Emil Zola has said, “the artist is nothing without talent, but talent is nothing without work.”

What point on your journey do you consider the most decisive?

Every milestone in an artist’s life is unique and unique because life gains value and perspective. You become a mandate and not an observer of your evolution. From a very early age I followed the path of music and I am grateful to my family who supported me, but also to the people I met and worked with them. Everyone is part of the puzzle of my life.

You have written and interpreted many songs that have become “hymns” for a generation. What elements do you think how was so great success?

It is the combination of the inspiration of the lyricist that embodies the sensitivity of the composer and touches the heart of the public. It is a magical moment for everyone every time we are on stage.

How different is the music industry today? With the discography that has changed so much, how does an artist keep the flame alive?

The music industry has really changed. From the vinyl and the discs in the lounge of the houses we arrived at the digital platforms. It is by the hand and inspiration of the lyricist and the composer to combine and translate their vision into notes and lyrics. Music has no rules and remains perpetual in time. The composer listens to the season while maintaining the sounds that make him stand out. This is the magic of music! Whatever the way music is broadcast, music remains, and that matters. In the end, the music itself surpasses us all.

How do you see the transition from traditional discography to digital streaming and so intense on social media?

It is the evolution of the time. With it we evolve by putting each one of their own limits on projection.

How do you feel the shift of the music industry to Greece to Trap Music? Will they ever work with a trap?

In every season, youth usually shapes the “music fashion” that lives with other genres of music. This new trend is quite far away from my own sounds, but it is always interesting to watch young artists and music. I would not be negative in a collaboration that would serve my own musical values, as did this year with the talented ZAF at Gazarte. I am always open to musical challenges.

After so many years on stage, what is the biggest lesson you have taken?

The emotions that an artist receives from the love of the world are unique and the effort to keep this important relationship that has been created over the years must be continuous. As is the case in life.

How has your relationship with the scene and the public changed over the years?

We have been released even more. At every musical meeting we become a company. I have a great time when I see their eyes smiling. The mood is two -way. The nights with them are wonderful and every time unique.

Do you have any unfulfilled musical desire? Something you haven’t done yet, either in kind of music or in collaboration?

The compositions lead to unexplored paths and musical desires change accordingly. Thinking and emotion cooperate and co -create each time differently. If the desire for something new stops, creation stops, so I am open to musical challenges as long as they keep in line with my temperament. We evolve without altering.

If you had to choose only one collaboration from the many you have done so far, what would it be and why?

All collaborations are unique and I remember them with emotion. From my first steps on the music scene to the present day. Of course I will never forget the phone call I had about the touch of the soul, young I then in Cyprus, by George Chatzinasios, my spiritual father.

Many songs, huge hits. What is your top 3 favorite songs? Was there a song that you love very much and consider how it was “wronged”?

Every song I have interpreted and composed has a special place in my heart so the choice is difficult. The audience has not “wronged” any of my songs, I hear it very much at concerts and I am grateful for that. At this time I distinguish “I am not leaving”, “seabed”, “I love you” (it is dangerous here) and “Friends and Enemies”. At our next meeting, I will probably tell you other songs.

If you were calling you to a talent show as a judge, would you go?

I have been distinguished from a talent show in Cyprus, I have participated in a similar game and yes I will participate as I think there are talents that can be highlighted and with a lot of work to do and stay on stage. Even if they are not the winners.

As a public person, you are criticized at every level. Have there been times on your way that you felt that criticism, either for your appearance or for your voice, was excessive or unfair or malicious?

Every public person must be prepared to accept criticism. I was more influenced more. Now I only accept the well -intentioned reviews, that is, those that can make you better. “You can understand the bad critic from the fact that he is starting and talking about the poet and not the poem,” the American poet Ezra Pound said rightly.

Lately we have been seeing strong reactions to artists who choose to evolve or experiment with their image and artistic identity. For example, the video clip of Eleonora Zouganeli or the turn of Spanou Marina to more pop appearances. Do you think there is room for freedom in artistic expression without prejudice?

The artist is free to express himself. Criticism should be done with respect to his face. Comments when made by prejudice are nothing more than those who do not have the power to change or experiment.

An artist’s personal life often remains at the center of interest. How easy or difficult is it for you to maintain this balance between personal and public life?

It is important but also difficult for an artist to keep his personal life as protected as possible. Everyone’s balance is different and I consider it based on the values ​​with which it has grown. I am lucky to have grown up in a family that taught me to respect the personal lives of those around and mine. I would rather be involved in my musical path and the rest to let the artist say when he wants.

Michalis Hatzigiannis for his favorite dog

@mhatzigiannis inspirational🐶 do you agree? ️ ️ #follow our page for more @zanniarislemon 👉 dont forget #save and #share ________ #zannithedog #beingdifferentisbeatiful #dogsonwheels #dogoftheineday #doglover #doglife #beautifullife #lifeisbetterwithadog #love #haveabeautifulday💐🌸🌻🌺🌹🌷 ♬ Original sound – Michalis hatzigiannis

How did you know Zannis and what prompted you to adopt her knowing her motor problems?

Zannis remains an integral part of my life. My most loyal girlfriend. We found her a puppy in Euboea, it was a healthy dog ​​that had a rare illness four years later. He underwent a difficult surgery and despite the necessary veterinary care he received failed to come back completely. We spent her depression and her sadness as her life changed and could no longer walk, but she quickly showed the power she hides inside her and again gained her smile and the desire for life! With her!

What is your daily routine with her? How has your presence affected your life?

We take a ride daily with her special train. Her love is a source of optimism and hope. Her presence only at home changes everyone and of course she likes to listen to music as she often sits next to the piano.

What message would you like to send to those who are thinking of adopting an animal with disabilities?

To do it without suspension and a second thought. Their power will give power to themselves. Of course, anyone who adopts an animal must be aware, as it will now have obligations. But the love he receives rejects every doubt. They have all their endless love stocks.

Looking forward, what are your future plans and dreams?

No one knows what tomorrow holds him. Many times the anxiety about the future can even destroy the creativity that leads to the fulfillment of the dream. We live and create today, we protect ourselves, we fortify our health and step by step we move on with a wind on the musical journey with love and respect.