MagSacem #101 - Autumn 2018

How did you meet Charles Aznavour?

Gérard Davoust: I met Charles in the early 70s through his brother-in-law, the great composer Georges Garvarentz, with whom I traded, when I directed the production Philips discs of film music projects. In 1972, when I took over the presidency of Éditions Chappell, we built together a new company called Chappell-Aznavour. Twenty Years Later, I left Chappell and we bought Raoul Breton Editions. It is thus forty-six years of collaboration and friendship! I talked to him almost every day all these years.

Your best memories with him?

I do not think I have bad memories with him ... With the exception of those painful moments, which we shared together: the disappearance of Georges Garvarentz, Gilbert Bécaud, Claude Nougaro, Marlene Dietrich and so many other friends. These were difficult moments. The rest of the time it was a permanent happiness to work with Charles Aznavour. He loved to laugh and we laughed all the time!

What do you think he left as a legacy for our musical heritage?

Very big songs! And its notoriety in the whole world.
If he sang in five languages, Charles made a point of honor to always integrate some French songs in his SongTour.
He is also the only French author, composer and performer to have his star in Hollywood. This represents an exceptional contribution, in terms of reputation and recognition of the French language.
He used to say: "There is nothing more interesting than to accomplish something when you have nothing to gain from it, the most beautiful act being often a free act." He will always live in the memories.

Published December 04 2018