Malta’s first participant Joe Grech died

Malta’s first participant Joe Grech died. He was 90 years old. Grech is most known for his Eurovision participation, in 1971, with the song “Marija L-Maltija”. He reached an 18th place. Grech didn’t participate in other years. He never did a second attempt via the Maltese national final.

Joe Grech at the 1971 Eurovision Song Contest

Joe Grech started his career playing the trumpet with the Żejtun Band. Later, he began singing. His big moment came in 1960 when he won the Malta Song Festival with the song “Vola Uccellino.” This was the first of many competition wins. In 1962, he won the same festival again with “Żgħażagħ Rebbieħa.”

In 1964, Joe became famous internationally. He won Best Singer/Composer at the Bari International Song Festival with the song “Dorina.” During his career, he toured many countries. He performed for Maltese communities in Canada, Australia, the US, and more.

In 1967, Joe became one of Malta’s most loved pop singers. His popular songs included “Il-Kaċċatur,” “Il-Festa Tagħna,” “Ku Klu Ku Klu,” “Il-Lejla tal-Vitorja,” and “Nhar San Girgor.”

Joe also released notable albums like Eviva l-Maltin in 1995 and Katarin in 2000. He was known for his charity work and helping others.

In 2019, Joe received the Ġieħ ir-Repubblika award for his lifetime contributions to music.

Malta’s first participant Joe Grech died today, 30 december 2024. On Monday, Culture Minister Owen Bonnici honored Joe. He praised his Eurovision success, his impact on Maltese music, and his 1960 festival win.

Joe Grech in 2015 in the show Living Stars

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