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Johnny Hallyday, a pioneering heartthrob and a monumental figure in the realm of rock music, remains an eternal icon. Following an exhibition in Brussels, Paris is poised to host a tribute from December 22, 2023, to June 19, 2024, reigniting the stage monster’s vigor in the hearts of many.
Johnny Hallyday’s career spanned 57 years, encompassing 79 albums, over 110 million records sold, 3,257 performances and 187 tours, marking him as a global sensation. Nicknamed the French Elvis Presley, he was honored with the title of Knight of the Legion of Honor in 1997. His passing in 2017 left behind a legacy of cultural richness and exceptional artistic creation. The love of his last wife, Laeticia, whom he married in 1996, remains unwavering beyond time and death.
Johnny Hallyday: l’exposition will stretch over a 3,000-square-meter space. It will guide visitors through the life of this esteemed artist with scenic installations, including his Marnes-la-Coquette office, numerous archival photos, stage costumes, guitars and heartfelt testimonies alongside previously unseen backstage moments. This unique exhibition offers fans, old and new, a glimpse into the indelible impact of this idolized singer. The journey through his universe encompasses musical, stage and personal memories, presented through extraordinary spatial arrangements. The voice of actor Jean Reno, a friend of Hallyday, will accompany the tour. The exhibition also features a themed shop and a rock’n’roll bar.
Laeticia Hallyday, having endeavored to make this exhibition a reality, reflects, “This exhibition, I dreamed of it. To show the man he was, his simplicity, sentimentality, fragility, and approachability. To return to the essence, the music. To revive the memories and emotions he shared throughout his life with his audience. Johnny Hallyday remained a street child at heart, a self-made man who many saw themselves in. This is how the exhibition begins.” In today’s ever-changing world, Johnny’s timeless song, L’Envie, resonates, “Give me darkness and then give me light. Give me cold so that I may love the flame. Give me hate so that I may love Love.”
May we keep Johnny’s love, passion and fervor, but above all, may we keep the flame.
Marie-Christine Tayah
Instagram: @mariechristine.tayah
