Gilbert Bécaud was a renowned French singer, songwriter, and composer, born on October 24, 1927, in Toulon, France. He became famous in the 1950s and 1960s for his powerful voice and charismatic stage presence. Bécaud wrote many popular songs, including "Nathalie" and "Et maintenant," which have been covered by various artists worldwide. Throughout his career, Bécaud released numerous albums and performed in prestigious venues, solidifying his status as a leading figure in French chanson. He was also known for his collaborations with other artists and his contributions to the music industry until his passing on December 18, 2001.