Known in the scene as “Crazy Nikos,” Nikos Mathesis was a legendary figure of Piraeus rebetiko music. Born in Salamina, he spent his early years in Piraeus, in tough neighborhoods like Karaiskaki, Tzelepi, and the shelters. A master lyricist, Mathesis wrote songs that have become timeless in the history of rebetiko. Among his works is the historic song dedicated to Aris Velouchiotis, rediscovered after decades.
Nikos Angelidis and “Time in Greece” bring you a special tribute to this iconic rebetis and “mangas” of his era. The feature includes testimonies and accounts of events that you may have never heard before, shedding light on the life and legacy of this rebetiko pioneer.