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Belgian singer-songwriter, composer, and actor renowned for his poetic lyrics, powerful emotional delivery, and profound influence on French-language music.Jacques Brel rose from a conventional Belgian upbringing to become a towering figure in French chanson during the 1950s and 1960s. Despite initial family resistance, he pursued music in Paris, achieving immense success with iconic songs like "Ne me quitte pas" and "Amsterdam". He abruptly retired from performing in 1967 to focus on acting, film directing, and sailing, eventually settling in French Polynesia. He died of lung cancer in France at age 49, leaving behind a legacy as one of the greatest singer-songwriters of the 20th century.

• Brel's father pressured him to join the family cardboard manufacturing business. His early musical career was met with significant family disapproval.
• His initial attempts to break into the Parisian music scene in the early 1950s were difficult, playing in rough cabarets before gaining recognition.
• Brel achieved superstardom in the 1960s, performing sold-out concerts at prestigious venues like the Olympia in Paris and Carnegie Hall in New York, captivating audiences with his intense stage presence.
• In a shocking move at the height of his fame in 1967, Brel permanently retired from live performing and recording, seeking new challenges.
• He pursued acting seriously, starring in several successful films including "Les Risques du métier" and "L'Emmerdeur". He also directed two films.
• Fulfilling a lifelong passion, Brel purchased a yacht and spent significant time sailing. In 1974, he moved to the Marquesas Islands in French Polynesia with his partner, actress Maddly Bamy.
• Diagnosed with lung cancer, he returned to France for treatment in 1977. Despite being seriously ill, he recorded one final, critically acclaimed album ("Les Marquises") in 1977.
• Jacques Brel died from complications of lung cancer and a pulmonary embolism in Bobigny, France, on October 9, 1978. He was buried in Atuona, Hiva Oa, French Polynesia, near the grave of painter Paul Gauguin.