Jacques Brel

World Music Singer

Birthday April 8, 1929

Birth Sign Aries

Birthplace Schaerbeek, Belgium

DEATH DATE Oct 9, 1978 (49)

#74913 Most Popular

About

Famous for Ne Me Quitte Pas (1972), Au Printemps (1958), and numerous other internationally-acclaimed albums of French-language chansons, Brel is also remembered for his acting work in films such as Franz (1971) and Mon Oncle Benjamin (1969).

Before Fame

During his high school years in Brussels, Belgium, he pursued his interests in drama and creative writing. He wrote his first songs in 1952 and released his debut recording, La Foire, the following year.

Trivia

His most famous chansons, many of which were later covered by other artists and recorded in various languages, include "Mathilde," "Les Bonbons," and "Amsterdam."

Family Life

His marriage to Therese Michielsen produced daughters named Chantal, France, and Isabelle. He left his family in the late 1950s and lived with his mistress, Sylvie Rivet.

Associated With

British singer Marc Almond released a hit cover of Brel's song "Jacky" and recorded a 1989 album containing numerous other covers of tracks written and originally performed by Brel.