Psarantonis, born Antonis Xylouris in 1937, is an acclaimed Cretan musician renowned for his distinctive approach to playing the lyra, a traditional Greek pear-shaped, three-stringed instrument. Hailing from the mountainous region of Anogeia in Crete, he comes from a prominent musical lineage, with his brothers Nikos Xylouris and Giannis Xylouris (also known as Psarogiannis) being famous Greek musicians in their own right. Psarantonis is known for his deeply emotive and often improvisational style, which infuses traditional Cretan music with a raw and profound spirituality.

Over his illustrious career, Psarantonis has gained a reputation for his innovative takes on Cretan folk music, extending the reach of the lyra into genres and collaborations that cross cultural boundaries. His discography exhibits a captivating blend of the ancient and the modern, often incorporating poetic lyrics and powerful vocals that resonate with audiences both in Greece and internationally. Albums like "Ta Rebetika Tou Psarantoni" showcase his expertise in rebetiko elements, while live recordings such as "Psarantonis Live Recording, Vol. 1" capture the energy and intensity of his performances. With a career spanning several decades, Psarantonis continues to be a transformative figure in Greek music, celebrating the rich history of Crete while simultaneously redefining the possibilities of its traditional sounds.