Édith Giovanna Gassion
- Born:
- December 19, 1915, Paris, France
- Died:
- October 10, 1963, Grasse, France
- Nationality:
- French
- Profession(s):
- Singer, Songwriter, Actress
Early Life and Education
- Édith Giovanna Gassion spent part of her childhood living with her paternal grandmother who ran a brothel.
- She was diagnosed with keratitis at a young age, causing temporary blindness, which she allegedly recovered from through religious intervention.
- She began singing on the streets of Paris alongside her father, an acrobat.
Career and Major Achievements
- Discovered by Louis Leplée, who gave her the nickname "La Môme Piaf" (The Little Sparrow).
- Gained significant recognition in Parisian cabarets and music halls during the late 1930s.
- Became a popular performer during World War II, both in France and for French prisoners of war.
- Mentored several emerging artists, including Yves Montand, Charles Aznavour, and Georges Moustaki.
- Achieved international fame with performances around the world, including in the United States.
- The continued interest in Édith Piaf biography in french is evident in ongoing media coverage of her life and career.
Notable Works
Discography (Selected)
Year | Song Title |
1946 | La Vie en rose |
1950 | Hymne à l'amour |
1956 | Les Amants d'un jour |
1959 | Milord |
1960 | Non, je ne regrette rien |
Filmography (Selected)
Year | Film Title | Role |
1941 | Montmartre-sur-Seine | Singer |
1954 | Si Versailles m'était conté... | Woman of the people singing |
Legacy and Impact
Édith Piaf remains one of France's most iconic and beloved singers. Her emotionally powerful voice and poignant songs, often reflecting themes of love, loss, and resilience, continue to resonate with audiences worldwide. She is credited with popularizing the French chanson genre and inspiring generations of artists.