Greek-Australian singer John Tikis (Τζων Τίκης) has died. His daughters Angela and Anita announced the sad news on Facebook, confirming that their beloved father passed away. In an emotional tribute, the sisters wrote: “I did it my way….Our beloved father, this is how he lived his life and this is exactly how he left this life today…Your love and your admiration, until his last moment, gave him strength and courage…Our dear dad, have a good trip, your voice will always accompany us all.We love you foreverYour daughters Angela and Anita” The announcement quickly circulated among Greek and Greek-Australian communities, many of whom grew up listening to his songs.
Born Yiannis Tekes (Γιάννης Τεκές) on 5 September 1946 in Mithymna (Molyvos) on the island of Lesbos, John Tikis became one of the most recognisable Greek voices of the 1970s and 1980s. At the age of 16 he left Greece for Australia, travelling on the ocean liner Patris. During the voyage he won a singing competition — an early sign of the talent that would later define his career.
He settled in Melbourne, where he studied while working and formed the band John Tikis & the Playboys. The group scored early success, including a gold record. Career Highlights In the early 1970s Tikis returned to Greece and launched a successful solo career.
He released numerous albums and became a popular performer in the live music scene of the era. Known for his charismatic stage presence and smooth vocal style, he built a loyal following both in Greece and among the Greek diaspora in Australia, where he continued to perform regularly for decades.Advertising1 (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); He later lived in Glyfada, Athens, and remained active in music well into later life. Family Life John Tikis is survived by his two daughters: Angela Tikis (Άντζελα Τίκη) – an astrologer who has appeared on Greek television channels including Open TV and Star Channel Anita (Annita) Tikis (Αννίτα Τίκη) – a piano teacher, soloist and children’s book author based in Athens He was also a grandfather to four grandchildren.
Legacy For many Greeks who came of age in the 1970s and 1980s, John Tikis’ voice was part of the soundtrack of their youth. His music bridged the Greek homeland and the large Australian diaspora community, making him a familiar and much-loved figure on both sides of the world.
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