Michel Berger
Early Life
Michel Berger was born Michel Jean Hamburger on November 28, 1947, in Neuilly-sur-Seine, a suburb of Paris, France. His father, Jean Hamburger, was a renowned nephrologist and his mother, Annette Haas, a concert pianist. Berger's early exposure to music, particularly classical music, deeply influenced his future career.
Career
Berger began his career in the mid-1960s as a singer and songwriter. However, he gained prominence in the early 1970s when he started writing songs for other artists, particularly for French singer Françoise Hardy. His collaboration with Hardy resulted in some of her most successful songs, such as "Message Personnel" and "Première Rencontre".
In 1973, Berger released his first solo album, "Michel Berger". While the album was not a commercial success, it established Berger as a talented songwriter and musician in the French music industry.
Berger's breakthrough came in 1978 with the rock opera "Starmania", which he co-wrote with lyricist Luc Plamondon. "Starmania" was a critical and commercial success, and it is considered one of the most important works in French musical theatre.
In the 1980s, Berger continued to write and produce songs for other artists, most notably for his wife, French singer France Gall. Their collaboration resulted in some of Gall's biggest hits, such as "Ella, elle l'a" and "Babacar".
In addition to his work with other artists, Berger continued to release his own albums throughout the 1980s and 1990s. His most successful album, "Beauséjour", was released in 1980 and included the hit single "La Groupie du Pianiste".
Personal Life
Berger married French singer France Gall in 1976. They had two children together, Pauline and Raphaël. The family lived in a suburb of Paris, where Berger continued to write and produce music until his death.
Death
Berger died of a heart attack on August 2, 1992, while playing tennis. He was 44 years old. His death was a great loss to the French music industry, as he was considered one of the most talented songwriters and producers of his time.
Legacy
Berger's music continues to be influential in the French music industry. His songs have been covered by numerous artists, and his rock opera "Starmania" has been performed numerous times since its original release.