On February 13, 2026, France will pay tribute to Nana Mouskouri, the Greek artist whose voice and artistry have left an indelible mark on international music, defined by sensitivity, consistency, and global appeal.
At the prestigious Victoires de la Musique ceremony — France’s foremost music awards presented under the auspices of the Ministry of Culture — Mouskouri will receive the honorary Victoire d’honneur. The ceremony will take place at the iconic La Seine Musicale, a venue synonymous with some of the most celebrated moments in contemporary French cultural life.
The award recognizes artists whose contributions have permanently shaped French music and culture. Previous honorees include legends such as Charles Aznavour, Serge Gainsbourg, Johnny Hallyday, David Guetta, Jane Birkin, and Salvatore Adamo. Mouskouri now joins this distinguished pantheon, reaffirming her deep and enduring bond with French song.
Her career remains a rare phenomenon in modern music. With more than six decades on stage, over 1,600 recorded songs in 21 languages, and record sales exceeding 300 million worldwide, Mouskouri transcended musical and geographic boundaries. From her native Crete to the world’s most renowned concert halls, her voice has carried emotions, stories, and shared values across cultures.
French repertoire proved central to her artistic identity, not merely as a language choice but as a cultural home. Her restrained interpretation, crystal-clear tone, and emotional depth made her French recordings timeless favorites for generations of listeners. As she once reflected, “Music was my first love and will remain my last,” a statement that perfectly captures a lifetime devoted to art.
