Born in Paris in 1947 and dying in the same city in 2009, Alain Bashung belongs to contemporary French chanson with an almost mythical aura. His Parisian haunts may not be as numerous as those of certain poets or authors, but the traces he left in the capital are well worth discovering.
From the Villa Poissonnière where he lived to the Square Alain-Bashung which pays homage to him, via his tomb in Père-Lachaise, Paris reveals here a few fragments of the memory of an extraordinary artist.
A singer-songwriter, actor and emblematic figure of French rock, Bashung was born in Paris in 1947. His deep voice, unique phrasing and constant quest for sonic and poetic innovation have left their mark on French music.
He made his debut in the 1960s, but didn't reach a wide audience until 1980 with "Gaby oh Gaby", followed by "Vertige de l'amour". He soon broke away from classic formats to offer albums with a darker, bolder aesthetic, such as Play blessures (1982), in collaboration with Serge Gainsbourg, or Osez Joséphine (1991), a cult album blending American rock and French elegance. He has established himself as a musical adventurer, flirting with new wave, blues, literate chanson and electronic sounds.
La Villa Poissonnière (18ᵉ arr.). One of the most personal places associated with Bashung is the Villa Poissonnière, in the Goutte d'Or district. He lived at number 8 of this villa, a charming cobbled passage surrounded by small terraced buildings. Accessible from 42 rue de la Goutte d'Or or via rue Polonceau, it comprises some twenty three-storey English-style houses, often embellished with antique floral decorations.
Ferber Studios (20ᵉ arr.). The song "Gaby oh Gaby", one of his first big hits, was recorded at Ferber Studios.
Père-Lachaise (20ᵉ arr.). Alain Bashung is buried in Père-Lachaise cemetery, in the 13ᵉ division, bordering avenue de la Chapelle. His tomb bears a sober sculpture, ornamented with arcs of circles evoking the grooves of vinyl records.
Square Alain-Bashung (18ᵉ arr.). To perpetuate his memory, the City of Paris inaugurated this square in his home district, accessible via 16 rue de Jessaint. Square Alain Bashung covers around 1,500 m² and features a variety of landscaped sections.
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Location
Square Alain Bashung
Square Alain Bashung
75018 Paris 18
Access
Metro La Chapelle (line 2) or Gare du Nord (lines 4 and 5)
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