Despina Vandi, originally Despina Malea (born 22 July 1969, Tipigen, Germany) is Greece's most popular and successful female singer. Though born in Germany, her family was from Kavala, Greece, and she was raised there until attending the University of Thessaloniki.
In 2003 she embarked on an international career, something Greek performers have had little success in accomplishing. Her first two international singles, "Gia" (2003) and "Opa Opa" (2004) did well on the charts. Her first internationally-distributed album is entitled Gia.
Vandi achieved a level of success on dance radio in the U.S.A., which is uncommon for either foreign musicians or techno musicians. Prominent dance and rhythmic stations across America have supported both of her singles
