Annet Artani Αννέτ Αρτάνη |
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Birth name | Annette Denise Stamatelatos |
Also known as | Annette Artani |
Born |
New York City, New York, United States |
6 September 1976
Origin | New York City, United States |
Genres | Pop rock, R&B, soul |
Occupation(s) | Singer-songwriter |
Instruments | Vocals |
Years active | 1994–present |
Labels |
Virus Music (2005-2008) Ultra Records (2008–present) |
Associated acts | American Bombshells |
Website | www.annetartani.com |
Annet Artani (Αννέτ Αρτάνη in Greek), born 6 September 1976, is a Greek American singer and songwriter. She is best known for representing Cyprus in the Eurovision Song Contest 2006 with the song "Why Angels Cry", as well as co-writing the worldwide hit "Everytime" with Britney Spears.
Artani was signed to Ultra Records and her debut single "Alive" was released in March 2009.
Artani was born Annette Denise Stamatelatos in Flushing, New York to Gregory and Julia Stamatelatos. Her family originates from the village of Karavados on the island of Kefalonia, Greece. She is named after her maternal grandmother, Anneta, and she chose to use her paternal grandmother’s first name, Artani, in her stage name, as a dedication to both of them. She graduated from Queens College and received an associate's degree from Five Towns College.
Artani and her older sister Diana, who also sings, formed a rock band named Nootropia (Mindset), singing in Greek, and promoted on National Greek TV (NGTV) and Aktina FM. The group sang Greek rock songs which were fused with classical elements.
Artani expressed her interest and love for music at a young age, particularly in offerings of such greats as Etta James, Aretha Franklin, Michael Jackson, and Madonna. After her early days singing with her sister, Artani decided that a solo career would suit her best. She received a scholarship from BMG for writing and performing her original song titled "Summer Days", and has also won several talent titles in America’s Favorite Pageants, the New York Star Pageant, the Ophelia Devoure Talent Connection, and has been featuring in both Pageantry and Billboard Magazine.