Georges Moustaki, the French singer-songwriter and composer of Greek origin, died on the morning of May 23 at the age of 79, his entourage said. Moustaki, who is best known for his poetic rhythm and simplicity, had written songs for Édith Piaf (including Milord), Dalida, Françoise Hardy, Barbara, Brigitte Fontaine, Herbert Pagani, France Gall, and Cindy Daniel, as well as for himself.
Georges Moustaki’s parents, Sarah and Nessim Moustaki came originally from the island of Corfu, Greece, and were Greek Jews, but moved to Alexandria, Egypt. Georges Moustaki’s real name was Yussef Mustacchi and he was born on May 3, 1934 in Alexandria, Egypt.
Moustaki went to Paris in 1951 and was inspired by the young Georges Brassens. He changed his name to Georges Moustaki, in honor of Brassens.
Moustaki penned around 300 songs including the 1958 hit Milord sung by Edith Piaf, which created a worldwide sensation. He also wrote the song Le Meteque in 1968, initially sung by Pia Colomba , whose refrain is known around the world.
Moustaki,who was also a painter, lived for more than 40 years in Île Saint-Louis, Paris.
See all the latest news from Greece and the world at Greekreporter.com. Contact our newsroom to report an update or send your story, photos and videos. Follow GR on Google News and subscribe here to our daily email!
