Yanni
Yanni's grandiose keyboard style is both accessible and exciting, two elements that have led to his success in the realm of adult alternative radio. His explosive, pop-influenced instrumentals and romantic pianistic ballads have also made him a popular touring and recording artist for the Private Music label. In addition to his original television, commercial, and film scores, Yanni's music has been used extensively on programs like Wide World of Sports and coverage of the Olympic games. This aspect of his career seems especially appropriate when you consider that he achieved early success not as a musician, but as a member of the Greek national swimming team. (He broke the national freestyle record at age 14.)
Born in Kalamata, Greece, Yanni arrived in the U.S. after high school and obtained a degree in psychology from the University of Minnesota before diving headfirst into music. It didn't take long for the self-taught keyboardist and composer to establish himself as a studio musician, jingles composer, and producer. After gaining an impressive cult following for his first independently released album, Yanni was picked up by Private Music and has become one of the label's best-selling artists.
One of the most visible artists in the contemporary instrumental realm, Yanni's rise to fame was expedited in the early '90s by his romantic relationship with actress Linda Evans, which gained him coverage on mainstream programs like Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous as well as appearances on the daytime talk-show circuit.