French singer-songwriter Gilbert Bécaud was an electrifying entertainer who won
a devoted following in his homeland following his recording debut in the early
1950s. He co-wrote and recorded many songs that were popular in France and when
translated into English were hits for artists including Elvis Presley, Shirley
Bassey, Frank Sinatra, Judy Garland and Neil Diamond.
Born on the south coast of France, he learned to play the piano as a child and
studied at the Conservatoire de Nice. World War II interrupted his education but
when the conflict ended he performed professionally...