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Iconic French singer, songwriter, and composer, celebrated as one of the greatest figures in French chanson, known for his poetic lyrics, joyful melodies, and charismatic stage persona.Charles Trenet, nicknamed 'Le Fou Chantant' (The Singing Madman), was a prolific French artist whose career spanned over six decades. He composed and performed hundreds of songs, many becoming timeless classics of French popular music. Key works include 'La Mer', 'Que reste-t-il de nos amours?', 'Douce France', 'Boum!', and 'Y'a d'la joie'. He began his career in the 1930s, achieving massive popularity before, during, and after World War II. Trenet blended elements of French lyricism, jazz, and swing, creating a unique and influential style. He received numerous honors, including the Grand-Croix of the Légion d'honneur.

• Trenet served in the French military during World War II. While his songs were popular during the Occupation, he faced accusations of collaboration post-war. An investigation cleared him, finding his work apolitical and focused on escapism.
• His homosexuality was an open secret. In 1963, he was arrested in Paris on charges related to homosexual acts with minors, which were illegal at the time. He was convicted and sentenced to one year in prison (suspended) and a fine. This scandal caused significant personal and professional damage.
• Facing financial ruin from the legal case and heavy tax demands, Trenet went into self-imposed exile for several years, living mainly in the US and Switzerland during the mid-to-late 1960s.
• Despite the scandal and exile, Trenet experienced a remarkable career resurgence in the 1970s and 1980s, becoming a revered national icon. He performed well into his 80s.
• He suffered a stroke in 2000 and died of complications following another stroke on February 19, 2001, at the age of 87.