On March 2, 2025, French music lost a major artist. Herbert Léonard, performer of the famous Pour le plaisir, passed away at 80 years old from lung cancer. He leaves behind a career full of twists and turns and an indelible mark on the Francophone scene. Thus, his life reminds us how perseverance can overcome all obstacles.
From Alsace to First Steps on Stage
Born on February 25, 1945 in Strasbourg, Hubert Lœnhard grew up in a modest household. His father was a garbage collector and his mother stayed at home. Very young, he discovered rock, rhythm and blues, and tried his hand at the guitar. Additionally, he joined various bands before becoming part of the Lionceaux in the 1960s. This Anglo-Saxon cover band gained fleeting notoriety. However, the deep voice of this young guitarist was already surprising professionals.
In 1967, he embarked on a solo career under the name Herbert Léonard and released Quelque chose tient mon cœur. Sales remained modest but allowed him to make contacts in the music industry. Thus, he patiently built the foundations of what would become a long artistic journey.
The Accident That Halts Momentum
In 1969, a car accident abruptly interrupted his rise. He suffered facial injuries and went through several months of convalescence away from the spotlight. He would later confide: “I feared I would never sing in front of an audience again.” During this forced rest, he discovered an unexpected passion: Soviet military aviation. He then wrote for Aviation Magazine, demonstrating his thirst for learning and his curiosity in all directions.
This period marked a turning point. Thus, he stepped away from the stage to return a few years later, armed with new determination.
The Hit That Changes Everything
In 1981, a chance encounter with Julien Lepers forever changed his career. This young composer offered him the song Pour le plaisir. Herbert Léonard recorded it without imagining the magnitude of the success to come. Moreover, this title turned into a national phenomenon and quickly exceeded 2.5 million sales.
His warm tone, reminiscent of American crooners, captivated a wide audience. The singer then followed up with hits, including Amoureux fous (a duet with Julie Pietri), Quand tu m’aimes, and Laissez-nous rêver. He became the iconic voice of the 1980s and sold nearly 10 million records. The public associated him with the image of a romantic singer, capable of enchanting crowds with timeless melodies.
Between Glory and Challenges
In the 1990s, the absence of new hits weakened his popularity. However, he remained active on the music scene and developed other projects. In 1999, he surprised with the role of Frollo in the musical Notre-Dame de Paris. This experience allowed him to return to the spotlight and reach a new audience.
The 2000s and 2010s were more challenging. In 2017, he suffered a pulmonary embolism and fell into a coma for 32 days. Then, in 2022, he contracted a severe form of COVID-19 which required a long hospitalization. Despite these trials, he continued to perform on stage, notably during the Âge tendre tours. The audience rediscovered his nostalgic repertoire and recognizable voice.
A Legacy for French Music
In 2014, his album Demi-tour testified to his attachment to rhythm and blues. He paid tribute to the sounds that had nurtured him during his Alsatian adolescence. Until his last days, Cléo, his wife, and their daughter Éléa accompanied him with tenderness.
Upon the announcement of his death, Julien Lepers declared: “Herbert knew how to convey emotion like no other.” Additionally, the Minister of Culture, Rachida Dati, praised “an unforgettable performer of French music.” The media and the public unanimously highlighted his essential role in the history of French pop music.
