
Jean-Jacques Goldman has been named several times as the favorite personality of the French. He is undoubtedly one of the most emblematic and influential artists on the French music scene. Singer, songwriter, composer, and producer of 300 songs, he has sold over 30 million records. Several generations have been marked by his catchy melodies and poignant lyrics. Despite his fame, he has always cultivated a certain discretion, thus maintaining the mystery around his person. A look back at the enigmatic life of this musical phenomenon.
A youth marked by tragedy
Jean-Jacques Goldman was born in Paris on October 11, 1951, into a family of Jewish immigrants. His father, Alter Mojze Goldman, was a Polish Jew, and his mother, Ruth Ambrunn, a German Jewish social worker. Both were resistance fighters during World War II and communist activists. Jean-Jacques grew up in an environment where culture and commitment were fundamental values.
His childhood was marked by tragic events. Among them, the violent death of his brother Pierre, who was assassinated in 1979 in Paris. This tragedy deeply affected Jean-Jacques, adding complexity to his personality.

The passion for music
From a young age, Jean-Jacques was passionate about music. He learned piano, violin, and guitar. His early influences included the Beatles, Bob Dylan, and James Taylor. After obtaining his baccalaureate, he joined the EDHEC Business School in Lille, where he earned a business degree while continuing to play in amateur bands.
From failure to success
After his military service, he worked in his parents’ sports shop. At the same time, he continued to play music as a hobby. His musical career had a difficult start, as the artist did not immediately captivate record companies. However, his perseverance and flair paid off.
In the 70s, he created the group Taï Phong, a progressive rock band that achieved some success with the song Sister Jane. In the 80s, his career took off with his solo album Jean-Jacques Goldman and the hit Il suffira d’un signe.

Terrible stage fright and unwavering passion
Goldman always suffered from terrible stage fright before going on stage, which often hindered his performances. Despite this, he gave in to the pressure from his team to perform. He preferred small or medium-sized venues that allowed him to disappear easily after his performances. His songs like Je te donne, Encore un matin, Là-bas, and Puisque tu pars are now classics.
Collaboration with Céline Dion
Goldman also wrote songs for other artists, notably Johnny Hallyday and Céline Dion. The latter, impressed by Goldman’s universe, agreed to collaborate with him for the album D’eux in 1995. This album became an instant success and was certified diamond. It quickly became the best-selling French-language album in history, with nearly 10 million copies sold.

Personal life and legacy
Despite his fame, Jean-Jacques Goldman is known for his discretion and reserve. Married twice and father of six children, he settled in London in 2002. He then moved to Marseille in 2004, gradually withdrawing from public life. In 2016, he announced his departure from Les Enfoirés, marking the end of an era. Despite this, his impact on French music and culture continues to be felt.
Jean-Jacques Goldman remains a respected and beloved figure in French music. His influence endures both through his own works and the many artists he has supported and influenced. His talent, integrity, and humanity make him a living legend of French song.

Until the end, Goldman maintained the mystery by retiring from the entertainment world at the height of his fame, without explanation or farewell tour. Now retired, the 72-year-old singer wishes to keep his private life away from the spotlight. Having not performed concerts since 2004, his songs continue to play on the radio hundreds of times a day.