I was born and raised in Pretoria, South Africa. I first heard MANOWAR in 1990, when I was 10 years old, on a mixtape a school friend recorded from a radio show. The song that struck me immediately was “Manowar,” and from that day on, the band’s sheer power – and Eric’s voice – changed my life tremendously.

To me, Battle Hymns is the greatest album of all time. Even after 35 years, it still gives me goosebumps and brings tears to my eyes – that’s how true it is.

I’ve experienced the MANOWAR brotherhood not only at the shows but also in everyday life, meeting fans who share the same powerful love for the music – a bond that truly transcends everything.

My most memorable moment was flying to Germany for the 2008 Magic Circle Festival, where MANOWAR performed their first six albums in full. What an unforgettable experience!

Living in South Africa makes traveling to Europe difficult and expensive, but with determination and love for the band, I’ve still managed to see MANOWAR in Greece (1999, 2022) and Germany (2008, 2017)

HAIL FOREVER!
Basil Koufos