The world is full of talented people who have made a significant contribution to one or another field of activity. Today we will tell you about Charles Aznavour, a French singer, songwriter, and actor. But that’s not all, he is known not only for his contribution to world music culture, but also for his humanitarian activities.
Biography
Charles Aznavour was born in Paris to Armenian immigrants. His family moved there after the Armenian Genocide in the Ottoman Empire. His real name is Shanur Vagenovich Aznavuryan. He grew up in difficult circumstances. As a child, he studied theater and music, which became the impetus for a brilliant future. Thanks to his talent and perseverance, he began a professional career in music and theater in the early 1940s, during the Great Patriotic War. His musical career spans more than seven decades.
Merits of Charles Aznavour
Charles Aznavour has recorded over 1,200 songs in French, English, German, Italian, Spanish and Russian. His songs cover a variety of topics, from love and melancholy to social injustice and politics. Famous compositions include “La Bohème”, “She”, “Hier encore” and many others. He became famous for his expressive voice and original style. His career lasted over 70 years. His work received worldwide recognition and became an integral part of the musical culture not only in France, but also around the world.
In addition, he wrote songs for such famous singers as Edif Piaf, Dalida, and Mireille Mathieu. According to Charles Aznavour, he owes his popularity to Edith Piaf, who supported him in many ways. It was during this period that she was at the height of her fame and he learned everything from her.
In addition to his musical activities, Charles Aznavour also achieved significant success as an actor. He has starred in over 60 films and television works, where he demonstrated his acting talent and charisma. His most famous films are: “Two Orphans” (1961), “Taxi to Tahou” (1982) and “Armenia, My Love” (2016). Critics and audiences praised his acting talent.
Charles Aznavour also received recognition as a writer. His first literary experience was his travel diary in Spain. Then in 1991, he published a collection of song lyrics and short prose entitled “A Word for the Poster”. In 2003, a book of memoirs “Time of the Advanced” was published, and in October 2005, a collection of short stories “Pictures of My Life” was published. Subsequently, seven more books were published, including an autobiographical novel.
Humanitarian Activities
In addition to his musical and acting career, Charles Aznavour is also known for his humanitarian activities. He actively supported various charity initiatives. His assistance to Armenia, where he came from, was colossal.
His role in supporting Armenia during various crises and disasters became especially relevant. Charles Aznavour provided significant financial and moral support. He also used his popularity and influence to draw the attention of the world community to the problems of the Armenian people.
In 1988, when a terrible earthquake occurred in Armenia, Charles Aznavour organized a grand charity concert in Paris. He was able to raise significant funds to help the victims, because then almost the entire city was destroyed. This event became one of the brightest examples of his humanitarian activity.
In addition, Charles Aznavour was a member and active participant in many humanitarian organizations. They worked mainly with victims of various disasters and in the fight against diseases. Charles Aznavour also supported cultural and educational initiatives.
Diplomatic activities of Charles Aznavour
Charles Aznavour actively supported the recognition and condemnation of the Armenian Genocide committed by the Ottoman Empire in 1915. He used his popularity and influence to attract the attention of the international community to this issue. He also played a significant role in strengthening diplomatic relations between France and Armenia.
Charles Aznavour was a representative of Armenian culture outside the country. He constantly supported initiatives aimed at helping the Armenian people. Due to his international fame and respect, Charles Aznavour could act as a cultural mediator between France and other countries, including Armenia. He often performed concerts and held cultural events that contributed to the strengthening of cultural ties and understanding between peoples.
Pour toi, Arménie
Charles Aznavour wrote and performed several songs dedicated to his homeland – Armenia. One of the most famous and significant songs is “Pour toi Arménie” (“For you, Armenia”). Charles Aznavour released this song in 1989 as a sign of support for the Armenian people after the earthquake. He was able to gather a large number of famous French singers who performed this song together. Its lyrics express deep affection and pride for the homeland. The melody is accompanied by Charles Aznavour’s characteristic style, distinguished by its emotionality and melancholy.
In 2001, in recognition of all had done for Armenia, the Armenian government named a square in the center of Yerevan, the capital of Armenia, after Charles Aznavour. A statue of him was also erected in Gyumri, one of the cities most affected by the devastating 1988 earthquake.
End of life of Charles Aznavour
Charles Aznavour passed away on October 1, 2018, at his home in the Alps. He was 94 years old at the time. His passing was a huge loss for the world music scene and culture.
People take leave of to Charles Aznavour as a national symbol both in France and in Armenia. “In France, poets never die,” said French President Macron, standing in front of his coffin, draped in the blue, white, and red flag of France. A wreath in the colors of the Armenian flag lay next to the coffin. Having left this world, he left a bright mark in the hearts of fans. Charles Aznavour was not only a talented musician and actor, but also an outstanding personality whose contribution to world culture and diplomacy will remain in people’s memories for a long time.
Conclusion
Charles Aznavour remains a symbol of Armenian pride, world culture and an unwavering commitment to art and peace. He left an indelible mark on world music and culture, his songs and acting continue to inspire generations around the world.