ATHENS, Greece (AP) — Dionysis Savvopoulos, the popular Greek singer-songwriter, was buried on Saturday at Athens' First Cemetery following a state-sponsored funeral, just four days after his passing at the age of 80. The beloved artist succumbed to a heart attack after a prolonged battle with cancer that began in 2020.

Thousands of admirers gathered to pay their final respects to Savvopoulos as he lay in state at a chapel of the Athens Metropolitan Cathedral on Saturday morning. The emotional tribute saw hundreds of mourners walking nearly 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) behind the hearse to the cemetery, illustrating the deep impact Savvopoulos had on his fans and the culture at large.

The presence of a Greek navy band playing somber music during the funeral marked a significant change in Savvopoulos's public perception. In the 1960s and 1970s, he was a celebrated figure among leftist anarchists but was often scorned by the establishment, which viewed him as a long-haired outlier. Over the years, however, he gained acceptance into the cultural mainstream, solidifying his status as a significant icon of Greek music.

Throughout his career, Savvopoulos maintained a distinctive musical style that blended rock, folk-rock, jazz, and Greek popular music. He remained politically engaged and was known for his candid critiques of both the leftist ideology and the establishment. His 1989 album “The Haircut” was particularly notable; its cover art featured Savvopoulos beardless, with long hair. While some of his songs even drew ire from long-time fans, his political stance evolved to remain moderate, though his beard eventually returned.

During the funeral service, Conservative Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis gave a touching eulogy, highlighting Savvopoulos's role as a voice of uncomfortable truths. He referenced the lyrics of “Messenger Angel,” a 1972 song by the artist, quoting the poignant line: “If he had no pleasant news to tell/better tell us none.” This sentiment captured Savvopoulos's essence as an artist willing to confront difficult realities through his music.

In addition to Mitsotakis, former President Katerina Sakellaropoulou, fellow musicians, artists, and literary figures joined in honoring Savvopoulos's legacy. Many of these individuals traveled from his hometown of Thessaloniki, and one of his two grandsons was also present, further illustrating the personal connections and meaningful relationships Savvopoulos fostered throughout his life.

As the tributes poured in and the ceremony unfolded, it became clear that Dionysis Savvopoulos would be remembered not only for his music but also for his ability to challenge social norms and provoke thought, leaving an indelible mark on Greek culture and the hearts of his fans.