Irakli Charkviani facts for kids

Irakli Charkviani (Georgian: ირაკლი ჩარკვიანი; born November 19, 1961 – died February 24, 2006) was a famous Georgian musician, poet, and writer. He was sometimes known by his special name Mepe (მეფე), which means "The King." Irakli was known for his unique style and interesting poems. His music mixed different styles like alternative rock, electronic music, and hip hop. He sadly passed away at 45 years old due to heart problems.

Life and Music Journey

Early Life and Family

Irakli Charkviani was born in Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, in 1961. He came from a well-known family. His father, Gela Charkviani, was a journalist and diplomat. He even served as Georgia's ambassador to the United Kingdom. Irakli's grandfather, Candide Charkviani, was an important political leader in Georgia from 1938 to 1952. His great-grandfather, Mose Toidze, was a famous Georgian artist.

Irakli studied Western European and American Literature at Tbilisi State University.

Starting His Music Career

Irakli began his music journey in 1976 with an indie rock project called Arishi. This first attempt didn't get much attention. Later, he formed a band called Taxi, which became more successful. They released an album in 1988.

In the 1980s, some of Irakli's poems and short stories were published. They were known for their rebellious spirit.

Becoming a Leading Artist

In the early 1990s, Irakli Charkviani became one of the most important artists in Georgia's alternative and electronic music scene. He led music projects like Children's Medicine (1991-1992) and Georgian Dance Empire (1993). He performed in many places, including Georgia, Moscow, and other parts of Eastern Europe.

Solo Albums and "The King"

Irakli's first solo album was called Svan Song. It was recorded in Germany in 1993. This album had a big impact on Georgian alternative music in the 1990s. In 1995, he also composed music for a film called "Orpheus's Death."

He released his second album, Ap’ren, in 1997. This was followed by a single called Sakartvelo in 1999. He then released the albums Amo in 2001 and Savse in 2004. Around this time, he started using the name Mepe, which means "The King" in Georgian.

Literary Works

Besides music, Irakli Charkviani was also a talented writer. He wrote several poems, short stories, and even a novel.

Legacy and Memorial

Irakli Charkviani was found in his apartment in Tbilisi on February 24, 2006. He had passed away due to heart problems. He left behind several songs that had not been released yet. These songs were later put together and released as an album called Dzirs Mepe ("Down with the King") in 2007.

In May 2013, Irakli Charkviani was given the Rustaveli Prize after his death. This award recognized his important contributions to modern Georgian culture. On November 19, 2016, a special monument was unveiled in central Tbilisi to remember Irakli Charkviani.

Literary Works

Irakli Charkviani wrote several books during his lifetime:

• Personal Letters, published in 2015
• A Calm Swim, published in 2006 and 2014
• Author's Columns Interviews, published in 2011
• Old Toys, published in 2009 and 2012
• Mepe Irakli's Poetry, published in 2008 and 2011