ΘΑ ΣΠΑΣΩ ΚΟΥΠΕΣ, 1928, ΜΑΡΙΚΑ ΠΑΠΑΓΚΙΚΑ (THA SPASO KOUPES) 1928 version performed by Marika Papagika

In looking back at the songs of Greek Smyrna, it is interesting to place these in an historical context compared to current versions performed by musical artists. While the tempo and pace of the newer versions is faster in comparison to versions around the time of the song's release, this video rendition of THA SPASO KOUPES from 1928 is revealing as a memento both of times past, but also, indicative of changing musical tastes and singing styles. This is also a very useful guide to the song's lyrics, and a helpful tool in becoming acquainted with these, which, like all the luminous songs of Greek Smyrna, is very pleasurable indeed to undertake!

Γλυκερία - Θα Σπάσω Kούπες - Glykeria's rendition of "Tha Spaso Koupes" (I'll Break Cups)

The songs of Greek Smyrna have been performed on countless occasions, and by many vocal artists the world over. The song Θα Θα Σπάσω Kούπες πάσω Kούπες (I'll Break Cups) is of no exception. In this rendition by famed Greek singer Glykeria, she takes us into the narrative world of this familiar song, but adds to it her distinctive husky tone, and persona. There is just something about her performance of this song which resonates the feeling that one is going back in time into life in Greek Smyrna, and they are actually witnessing the events which are described in the song. Please enjoy this video, which I hope you find entertaining.

Eleftheria Arvanitaki - Tha Spaso Koupes: A Fine Example of a Smyrneiko Song

It is well-known that the Greek citizens of Smyrna were a people with inimitable views on life, love, cooking, philosophy, family and the arts, just for starters. THA SPASO KOUPES, performed in this version by famous Greek singer Eleftheria Arvanitaki, is one of the most famous Smyrneika songs, eloquently expressing the spirit and character of the Greeks of Smyrna in a breezy, light manner. It details how a young woman has exchanged harsh words with a man, and consequently breaks off their relationship. In spite of still harbouring some feelings for him, she has decided to extricate herself from her relationship with him, and take the experience in her stride. She indulges in dance, specifically the tsifteteli, to effectively remove, and cleanse this person from her consciousness. I sincerely hope you enjoy this song, and notice how its lyrics have stood the test of time, even after many years.