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About Michalis Kouinelis
Early Life
Michalis Kouinelis was born on March 22, 1979, in Alexandroupoli, Greece. He developed an early interest in music and hip-hop culture, which shaped his career path from a young age, and entered the Greek music scene in 1997 as part of the hip-hop group Babylon, contributing to their debut album, "Arhi Epi Telous."
Musical Style & Sound
Kouinelis works in pop rap and R&B, best known as the lead singer, primary producer, and lyricist of the hip-hop group Stavento, which he has described as his own creative "trademark." He also collaborated with the influential Greek hip-hop group Active Member on their album "Meres Thavmasies, Paraxenes Meres," building his reputation across multiple corners of the Greek hip-hop and pop-rap scene before establishing Stavento as his primary vehicle.
Career Rise
After his early work with Babylon and Active Member, Kouinelis founded Stavento, taking on production, songwriting, and lead vocal duties for the group. In 2014, he became a coach on ANT1's "The Voice of Greece," expanding his profile from recording artist to television personality and further cementing his standing in Greek pop culture.
Diaspora Impact
Kouinelis's work with Stavento helped bring pop rap and R&B into the mainstream of Greek popular music, giving him a following among younger diaspora audiences who connect with contemporary Greek hip-hop alongside more traditional Laïko and pop genres. His visibility as a coach on "The Voice of Greece" further extended his recognition to broader audiences following Greek television and music culture from abroad.
FAQ
What genre does Michalis Kouinelis sing?
Michalis Kouinelis works in pop rap and R&B, best known as the lead singer, primary producer, and lyricist of the hip-hop group Stavento.
How did Michalis Kouinelis get his start in music?
He entered the Greek music scene in 1997 as part of the hip-hop group Babylon, contributing to their debut album, "Arhi Epi Telous," before also collaborating with Active Member on their album "Meres Thavmasies, Paraxenes Meres."
What is Michalis Kouinelis best known for?
He's best known as the founder and creative force behind the group Stavento, taking on production, songwriting, and lead vocal duties for the band.
Has Michalis Kouinelis appeared on television?
Yes. In 2014, he became a coach on ANT1's "The Voice of Greece," expanding his profile from recording artist to television personality.
Where can I listen to Michalis Kouinelis?
You can stream his music on GetGreece Radio, along with other leading voices in Greek pop rap and R&B.
About
Michalis Kouinelis, widely known by his stage name METH or as the leader of Stavento, is a pioneer who successfully blended hip-hop with Greek pop and folk elements. Based in Alexandroupoli, he is known for his storytelling lyrics and positive, high-energy productions. His work as a coach on The Voice of Greece made him a household name across all ages. In 2025, Stavento released a new album that integrated traditional Thracian instruments with urban beats. By 2026, he remains one of the most respected figures in the industry, celebrated for his authenticity, his dedication to his regional roots, and his ability to create cross-generational hits.
Diaspora Impact
Highly influential among the younger diaspora who value his mix of modern urban sounds with distinctively Greek lyrical themes.
