Édith Piaf
Iconic French singer and lyricist, celebrated for the modern chanson genre.
Chronology: 1915-12-19 – 1963-10-10
Origins & Early Life
Édith Giovanna Gassion (19 December 1915 – 10 October 1963), known as Édith Piaf (French: [edit pjaf]), was a French singer and lyricist. She is regarded as France's greatest popular singer and one of the most celebrated performers in the world. She is best known for performing songs in the cabaret and modern chanson genres. Having begun her career touring with her father at age fourteen, she was discovered in 1935 in Paris by night club owner Louis Leplée.
Pivotal Works & Achievements
Her fame increased during the German occupation of France, shortly after which (in 1945) she wrote the lyrics to her signature song, "La Vie en rose" ('life in pink'). She became France's most popular entertainer in the late 1940s, also touring Europe, South America and the United States, where her popularity led to eight appearances on The Ed Sullivan Show. Piaf continued to perform, including several series of concerts at the Paris Olympia music hall, until a few months before her death in 1963 at age 47. Her last song, "L'Homme de Berlin", was recorded with her husband Théo Sarapo in April 1963. Since her death, several documentaries and films have been produced about Piaf's life as a touchstone of French culture, including the...
Enduring Legacy & Impact
The historical impact and works continue to influence the modern world.
Source: Wikipedia