Athena Manoukian: The Rising Star of Greek-Armenian Pop

Athens to Yerevan: Representing Armenia in Eurovision

Athena Manoukian is a Greek-Armenian singer and songwriter who made headlines when she was chosen to represent Armenia in the Eurovision Song Contest 2020 with her powerful single "Chains on You". Although the contest was cancelled due to the pandemic, Manoukian's talent and charisma left a lasting impression on the music industry.

A Journey of Musical Discovery

Born on May 22, 1994, in Athens, Greece, Manoukian's love for music began at a young age. Her first brush with stardom came in 2007 when she won first prize at the Greek talent contest "This Is What's Missing" on Alpha TV. This early success paved the way for her participation in the Greek national selection for the Junior Eurovision Song Contest 2008.

Breaking into the Scene

In 2011, Manoukian released her debut single "Party Like A Freak", which received critical acclaim and earned her two nominations at the MAD Video Music Awards. Her subsequent releases, "I Surrender" and "Na Les Pos M' Agapas", solidified her position as a rising star in the Greek music industry. These hits even earned her a Gold Disc, a testament to her growing popularity.

International Collaborations and Accolades

Manoukian's talents soon transcended borders. In 2014, she released the single "XO", recorded in Sweden and shot in Australia, which topped the charts and won the Armenian Pulse Awards for Best Song in English. Her songwriting skills were also put to the test when she penned the lyrics for Helena Paparizou's "Palia Mou Agapi" in 2017.

A Global Stage Awaits

In 2018, Manoukian took a bold step by auditioning for the UK version of The X Factor. Her audacity and talent earned her widespread recognition, with many speculating about her potential representation in the Eurovision Song Contest. Finally, in 2020, she emerged victorious in Depi Evratesil, Armenia's national selection, and was set to represent her ancestral homeland in the Eurovision Song Contest 2020.

Contemporary Armenian Pride

Athena Manoukian's journey is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Greece and Armenia. Her music embodies the fusion of traditional and modern elements, reflecting the eclectic essence of the Greek-Armenian diaspora. As she continues to rise to international fame, she remains an inspiration to young artists from diverse backgrounds, proving that music knows no borders.

Some Interesting Facts about Athena Manoukian

• She considers herself a proud representative of the Greek-Armenian community.
• Manoukian's music is a blend of pop, dance, and R&B, showcasing her versatility as an artist.
• In addition to her music career, she is also a passionate advocate for social causes, particularly in the realm of education.

A Star on the Rise

Athena Manoukian's remarkable journey is a testament to her dedication, perseverance, and passion for music. As she continues to shine bright on the global stage, her name becomes synonymous with Greek-Armenian excellence, paving the way for future generations of artists to follow in her footsteps.