JACQUES BREL, whose full name is Jacques Romain Georges Brel, was a renowned Belgian singer, songwriter, and actor. He was born on April 8, 1929, in Schaerbeek, a suburb of Brussels, Belgium. Brel grew up in a middle-class, Catholic family. His father was Romain Brel, who worked in the family cardboard business, and his mother was Élisabeth "Lisette" Lambertine. Brel showed an early interest in music and the arts, although he initially worked in his father's factory. His passion for music eventually led him to pursue a career in singing and songwriting. In 1953, Brel moved to Paris to follow his dreams, performing in small clubs and cabarets. His unique voice and emotive performances quickly garnered attention. Brel's breakthrough came in the mid-1950s with songs like "Quand on n'a que l'amour" ("When You Only Have Love"). His powerful lyrics and charismatic stage presence made him a favorite among French-speaking audiences. Throughout the late 1950s and 1960s, Brel released a series of successful albums, including "La Valse à Mille Temps" and "Les Bourgeois," which solidified his reputation as one of the greatest chanson (French song) artists. In 1950, Brel married Thérèse Michielsen, known as "Miche." The couple had three daughters: Chantal, France, and Isabelle. Despite his success, Brel's personal life was often tumultuous. His dedication to his music and frequent tours led to a strained marriage, and he had numerous affairs. He separated from his wife in the 1960s, although they never formally divorced. "Ne Me Quitte Pas" ("Don't Leave Me"), one of Brel's most famous songs, was written in 1959 after his breakup with Suzanne Gabriello. The song, marked by its heartfelt plea and poetic imagery, became an anthem of lost love and has been covered by many artists worldwide. In the late 1960s, Brel decided to retire from singing to focus on acting and directing. He starred in several films, including "Les Risques du Métier" and "Mon oncle Benjamin." However, in 1973, he was diagnosed with lung cancer, a consequence of his heavy smoking. Despite his illness, Brel continued to work, recording his final album "Les Marquises" in 1977. He spent his last years living in the Marquesas Islands, French Polynesia, seeking peace and tranquility. He was buried in Atuona, Hiva-Oa, in the Marquesas Islands, near the grave of artist Paul Gauguin. Jacques Brel left an indelible mark on the world of music and French chanson. His songs, characterized by their emotional depth and lyrical brilliance, continue to inspire and move audiences. Brel's influence extends beyond music to literature and cinema, making him a cultural icon.
Source:
- [Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jacques_Brel)
- [Biography](https://www.biography.com/musician/jacques-brel)
- [French Learner](https://www.frenchlearner.com/songs/ne-me-quitte-pas/)
- [Last.fm](https://www.last.fm/music/Jacques+Brel/_/Ne+me+quitte+pas)