Edith Piaf - 10 things to know with detail
- 1. Edith Piaf was born on December 19, 1915, in Belleville, Paris, France. She was given the name Édith Giovanna Gassion at birth.
- 2. Piaf was known as "The Little Sparrow" (La Môme Piaf) due to her petite stature and powerful voice.
- 3. She had a difficult childhood, growing up in poverty and being raised by her paternal grandmother in a brothel. She lost her mother at a young age and her father was absent for most of her life.
- 4. Piaf began singing on the streets of Paris as a teenager and was discovered by a cabaret owner who helped launch her career.
- 5. She quickly rose to fame in the 1930s and 1940s with hit songs like "La Vie en Rose" and "Non, je ne regrette rien."
- 6. Piaf's personal life was tumultuous, with multiple marriages and relationships with famous men like boxer Marcel Cerdan and actor Yves Montand.
- 7. She struggled with addiction to alcohol and drugs throughout her life, which affected her health and career.
- 8. Despite her personal struggles, Piaf continued to perform and record music until her death in 1963 at the age of 47.
- 9. Her music and legacy have endured over the years, with her songs being covered by numerous artists and her story inspiring movies and stage productions.
- 10. Edith Piaf is considered one of the greatest French singers of all time, known for her emotional performances and powerful voice that continues to resonate with audiences around the world.