Nicole Croisille, a luminary of French entertainment for over six decades, passed away in Paris at the age of 87. Her career, a vibrant tapestry woven with threads of music, dance, film, and theatre, left an indelible mark on French culture. While celebrated for a diverse repertoire, Croisille’s international acclaim stemmed primarily from her contribution to the soundtrack of the iconic 1966 film “A Man and a Woman.” Her breathy rendition of the “chabadabada” refrain etched itself into the annals of French music history, becoming an instantly recognizable symbol of romantic French cinema. Even as she entered her eighties, Croisille maintained her vivacious spirit and dedication to her craft, embodying a lifelong passion for performance.
Croisille’s journey began early, with her first steps on stage at the tender age of eight at the Paris Opera School. This marked the beginning of a lifelong love affair with performance. Her talents extended beyond dance, however, and she soon discovered a passion for jazz during a tour of the Americas with Marcel Marceau’s mime troupe. This newfound love led her to the vibrant jazz scene of Saint-Germain-des-Prés in Paris, where she honed her vocal skills and established herself as a versatile performer. Her career encompassed a wide array of artistic expressions, from revue performances alongside Josephine Baker to roles in musicals like “L’Apprenti Fakir” with Jean Marais. This early period showcased Croisille’s multifaceted talent and laid the groundwork for her future successes.
The turning point in Croisille’s career arrived in 1966 with the film “A Man and a Woman.” While she had already begun her recording career in the early 1960s, struggling to find widespread recognition amidst the burgeoning yé-yé pop movement, the film’s soundtrack propelled her to international fame. Composed by Francis Lai, the film’s theme song, featuring Croisille’s distinctive vocals, became a global sensation. It not only became an international hit, but also the first French single to achieve gold certification in the United States. This success catapulted Croisille into the mainstream and solidified her status as a prominent figure in French music.
The 1970s witnessed Croisille’s ascent to the summit of French popular music. Signing with Philips Records provided her with a platform to further develop her unique chanson-pop style, often collaborating with renowned lyricists like Pierre Delanoë and Claude Lemesle. During this period, she released a string of hit singles, solidifying her popularity and cementing her place as a leading voice in French music. Songs such as “Téléphone-moi,” “Parlez-moi de lui,” and “Une femme avec toi” became staples of French radio and emblems of her captivating vocal style. Her success continued into the 1980s with hits like “Le Blues du businessman” from the musical “Starmania” which further solidified her enduring appeal.
Croisille’s artistic journey remained dynamic and diverse, demonstrating a continued exploration of her musical passions. While embracing pop, her love for jazz never waned. In 1987, she collaborated with prominent jazz musicians, culminating in the album “Jazzille” and a subsequent national tour. She also explored Brazilian music with her 2008 album “Bossa d’hiver,” testament to her wide-ranging musical interests. In addition to her musical achievements, Croisille maintained a respected acting career, appearing in several films by Claude Lelouch and on television. She even fulfilled a lifelong dream by starring in the American musical “Hello, Dolly!” in 1992.
Despite her enduring success, Croisille remained humble and focused on the joy of performance. She paid tribute to her fellow artists, such as Claude Nougaro, with dedicated stage shows and albums. Even into her eighties, she continued to grace the stage, embracing challenging roles and maintaining a playful attitude towards her craft. Right up until the end of her life, she expressed a deep appreciation for her long and fulfilling career, demonstrating a zest for life and a continued passion for entertaining audiences. Her contributions to French music and culture are undeniable, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to resonate for generations to come.
