Oscar-Winning Composer Vangelis Passed Away the age of 79
Vangelis, the composer who gave Chariots of Fire a unique synth bass sound, has passed away. He was 79 years old. According to assistant Lefteris Zermas, Vangelis died of heart failure at a hospital in Paris on May 17.
ANA referred to a statement from his law firm which said Vangelis died late Tuesday without specifying the cause of death.
Greek media reported that Vangelis died at a French hospital on Wednesday.
Vangelis was born in the Greek city of Agria, Evangelos Odyssey Spa Patanascio. He was a self-taught musician and became a young piano genius. He then moved to Paris and formed the popular progressive rock band Aphrodite's Child. Eventually, the band broke up and Vangelis signed a solo recording deal with RCA Records.
In 1981, he created the music for Chariots of Fire. The opening theme, the uplifting bow and decorative fittings, was released as a single and topped the Billboard Hot 100 list. His efforts have earned him the best original points win in an Oscar.
Vangelis has had a lifelong interest in space. It is reflected in his music - in its breadth and mood. He thought there was something in the people he wanted to find, whether it was in heaven or in the studio. Becoming a musician was never a conscious choice for inmates. "It's very difficult not to make music. It is as natural as eating when you are in love. The music is the same, "Vangelis told NPR in 1977.
