366Art | Charles Aznavour

Today is the birthday of the legendary Charles Aznavour, French chansonnier, songwriter, actor, and diplomat of Armenian descent. The editing above and his portrait on the musical reference works/birthday calendars below are made by me, Frieke.

Aznavour was born as Shahnour Vaghinag Aznavourian on May 22, 1924, in Paris, to Armenian immigrants who had fled the Armenian genocide. In France, the Aznavourian family became involved in the cultural and social life of the Armenian community. Mischa and Knar, his parents, were active in supporting other Armenian refugees and promoting Armenian culture and music. This background had a significant influence on Charles Aznavour and his career, both in music and in his later humanitarian work. From a young age, Aznavour was introduced to the world of film and theater by his artistic parents.

His major musical breakthrough came in the 1950s when he collaborated with Edith Piaf, who took him on tour and introduced him to a wider audience. Aznavour experienced his big break with his performances at the famous concert hall L'Olympia, one of the most prestigious concert venues in Paris. His performances convinced both the audience and critics. His unique voice, emotional depth, and captivating songs made a lasting impression. After his breakthrough at L'Olympia, Aznavour began releasing a series of successful albums and singles. Songs like Sur ma vie (1956) became major hits. All of France embraced him. Aznavour quickly became one of the most beloved and respected singers in the country. His songs, often characterized by profound lyrics about love, loss, and life, resonated with many people. His musical style combines chanson with elements of pop, jazz, and traditional French music. He was also known for his narrative lyrics and the emotional charge he brought to his performances.

Aznavour wrote over 1300 beautiful songs, sang in six different languages, and sold over one hundred million records worldwide. His musical style blends chanson with elements of pop, jazz, and traditional French music. Some of his best-known songs include: Les Comédiens (1960), Je m'voyais déjà (1961), Et Pourtant (1963), For me formidable (1964), La Bohème (1965), Emmenez-moi (1967), Non je n'ai rien oublié (1971), Les Plaisirs Démodés (The Old Fashioned Way) (1972), She (1974) en Mes Emmerdes (1976)

Besides his musical career, Aznavour appeared in over 60 films. Some of his notable roles include in Shoot the Piano Player (1960) directed by François Truffaut and Ararat (2002) by Atom Egoyan. His acting talent was also appreciated.

Aznavour married three times. His first marriage was with Micheline Rugel Fromentin in 1946, but this marriage did not last long. He then married Evelyn Plessis in 1955, but this marriage also ended in divorce. In 1967, he married Ulla Thorsell, a Swedish model. He remained married to Ulla until his death. Aznavour had six children: Seda, Charles, Patrick, Katia, Misha, and Nicolas. His son Patrick tragically passed away in 1976.

Aznavour was proud of his Armenian heritage and maintained a strong connection with Armenia throughout his life. He spoke multiple languages, including French, Armenian, English, Spanish, and Italian. He also advocated for the Armenian cause and played a significant role in helping the country after the 1988 earthquake. In 2009, Aznavour was appointed as Armenia's ambassador to Switzerland and permanent representative to the United Nations in Geneva.

Just before his eightieth birthday, Aznavour began his La Dernière Tournée a concert tour that lasted over five years, during which he performed in sold-out venues worldwide, bidding farewell to his loyal fans. Despite his advanced age, he delivered energetic and emotionally charged concerts, singing his greatest hits and giving fans the chance to see him live one last time. Aznavour remained an icon of French chanson until his death. "Life has to be lived, I can relax eternally when I'm dead," said Aznavour.

Charles Aznavour passed away on October 1, 2018, at the age of 94. His death was mourned and commemorated by countless artists and fans worldwide. He is regarded as one of France's greatest singers.