Greek singer Nino has launched a bitter tirade against music industry insiders on Instagram, accusing scheming rivals of working to undermine self-made artists.
The performer reflected on his 24-year career in show business while defending fellow singer Giorgos Mazonakis over how he has been treated by industry figures.
Nino stated that he first connected with the public in 2002 and received great affection from fans who responded to his honesty and authenticity. He added that listeners loved his songs from the beginning of his career through to the present day.
Looking back at his entry into music 24 years ago, the singer said he initially felt immense joy joining what he described as a magical field. However, he explained that while he believes conditions were purer in the past, he later realised that the business carries severe difficulties.
Music industry rivals
Nino claimed that the entertainment business is currently populated by calculating, derivative individuals who target independent creators and wait for their downfall. He asserted that these figures whisper malicious comments around tables where industry executives shape the map of performing artists in order to push rivals out of the picture.
The singer emphasized that he has experienced this hostility firsthand for nearly 25 years without relying on influential backers, courts, or commercial sponsors. He insisted that he has maintained complete freedom as an artist by speaking the truth and refusing to flatter individuals he views as opportunistic.
Nino added that hypocritical industry figures treat artists harshly during their lives, only to praise them and host tributes once they pass away. He stated that he has kept a record of the individuals he loathes by full name, asserting that the public already knows who these derivative figures are.
Born Stefanos Xypolitas, the singer first achieved nationwide fame in Greece after appearing on the reality music competition Fame Story in 2002. Over the following two decades, he established himself as a prominent figure in Greek pop-rock, releasing numerous hit records and gaining a reputation for uncompromising public statements.
Support for Giorgos Mazonakis
In his social media post, Nino expressed deep sadness over the departure of singer Giorgos Mazonakis and the manner in which Mazonakis was treated by the music business. Nino described Mazonakis as a genuine rock star and an independent artist filled with original ideas.
Nino stated that he has been observing how the industry treats Mazonakis in recent days because he works in the same field. He noted that he was not watching how the public reacted, asserting that listeners already know the truth, loved Mazonakis, and appreciate authentic performers.
Giorgos Mazonakis is one of Greece's most prominent pop and contemporary laiko singers, maintaining a career spanning more than three decades. The Greek music sector is concentrated largely in Athens, where record labels, live music venues, and media platforms exert significant control over artist visibility.
Nino concluded his statement by warning his followers to beware of manipulative and derivative people in their own lives who secretly oppose them. He also emphasized that no other performer in the industry speaks as openly as he does.
