Adiss Harmandian

Adiss Harmandian (January 14, 1945 – September 1, 2019) was a the most influential Armenian singer, songwriter, and cultural icon within the diaspora Armenians. He began his career at age 16, performing international hits releasing his first French-language album in 1965, writing both the lyrics and compositions. Inspired by global music trends, Adiss set out to bring modern sounds to Armenian music. In 1968 he released his first Armenian album titled “Dzaghigner” giving rise to the Estradayin (Estrada) Armenian genre. He is referred to as the pioneer of Armenian pop jazz music. His landmark Armenian albums Nouné and Karoun Karoun helped define a new era, blending contemporary modern style into Armenian songs. By the mid-1970s, Adiss had toured every continent with Armenian communities, uniting the diaspora and the homeland through music. He was the most famous artist in his generation selling millions of records worldwide. Over his 55-year career, Adiss received numerous honors and accolades from high-ranking officials, religious leaders and organizations. He also has received lifetime achievement award in 2005. Adiss released more than 35 albums and over 400 songs, modernizing folk music while writing and composing over 100 original works. Adiss Harmandian was a cultural movement whose music not only helped preserve Armenian identity in the diaspora, but also made generations fall in love with Armenian music. He influenced countless Armenian artists who followed.