Alec R. Costandinos

Alec R. Costandinos, (born Alexandre Kouyoumdjian in 1944 in Cairo, Egypt) has long been considered one of the original catalysts of the French disco scene of the 70's. He was also intimately involved as a writer, publisher and musician in the development of Aphrodite's Child with Vangelis and Greek-born pop singer, Demis Roussos. On the disco front, he contributed to the debut album of Crystal Grass, which featured the club hit "Crystal World", released on the Philips label in France. Alec was also the publisher of hits for various artists including French chanteuse Dalida. He has also written under the pseudonym R. Rupen.

His father was Armenian and his mother was Greek.

Career

He is known for his outstanding collaborations that assisted in the development of French disco drummer Cerrone. During Cerrone's tenure with John Kongos and later fusion act Kongas, their collaboration "Anikana-O", led to the solo release of Cerrone's "Love In C Minor". The 17 minute disco opus was an instant disco hit and sent shock waves through the club circuit, echoing Donna Summer's ode to love from a male perspective. Four cuts were featured on the complete album, including the spectacular "Midnite Lady".

After parting company with Cerrone, Constandinos launched his own project, the aptly titled Love & Kisses. Released initially on the Barclay distributed Rei Vera label in France, his two song album, featuring...
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