NPR

'French Elvis' Johnny Hallyday Dies At 74

Born as Jean-Philippe Smet during World War II in occupied Paris, Hallyday latched on to American-style rock 'n roll in the 1960s and went on to sell 100 million albums over five decades.
French singer Johnny Hallyday smiles as he receives the best album award next to French TV host Virginie Guilhaume at the 31st Victoires de la Musique, the annual French music awards ceremony, last year at the Zenith concert hall in Paris.

Singer Johnny Hallyday, known as the "French Elvis," for his role in popularizing rock 'n roll in his country, has died of lung cancer at age 74.

Although little known to audiences

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from NPR

NPR3 min readCrime & Violence
Justice Thomas Decries 'Nastiness' And 'Lies' Against Him
The Supreme Court justice told attendees at a judicial conference that he and his wife have faced "nastiness" and "lies" over the last several years and decried Washington as a "hideous place."
NPR4 min read
Senate Passes FAA Reauthorization Bill, Sending Legislation To The House
The Senate passed a bill designed to improve safety and customer service for air travelers, a day before the law governing the Federal Aviation Administration expires.
NPR5 min read
Why Writing By Hand Beats Typing For Thinking And Learning
Researchers are learning that handwriting engages the brain in ways typing can't match, raising questions about the costs of ditching this age-old practice, especially for kids.

Related Books & Audiobooks