Talented people often have to overcome difficulties on their creative path. The famous actor and singer Enrico Macias had to risk his life when moving from Algeria to France.
Starting conditions
For a long time, folk motives have served as the basis for modern songs and instrumental compositions. This approach is applied in all countries. Enrico Macias was born on December 11, 1938 in the family of a professional musician. Parents at that time lived in the city of Constantine on the territory of modern Algeria. My father played the violin in the orchestra of the famous composer Sheik Raymond. The repertoire of this group was formed on the basis of Arabic and Andalusian melodies. The venue where vocal and instrumental compositions were performed was located in one of the best restaurants in the city.
The child grew up under the supervision of the mother. He began to demonstrate musical talent at an early age. By the age of fifteen, Enrico had perfectly mastered the technique of playing the guitar. After completing his secondary education in college, he decided to make a living as a professional musician. At the request of his father, he was accepted into Raymond's team. To insure himself financially, Masias worked as a primary school teacher during the day, and went on stage with his guitar in the evening. It seemed to the young man that this would continue in the future.
Creative activity
The usual way of life in Algeria was disrupted in the early 60s. The national liberation war began and people were not up to songs. Moreover, the composer Sheik Raymond was brutally murdered. Only a hasty escape under cover of night allowed Enrico Macias and his wife to escape. They moved to France, where they began a new life. To make ends meet, the musician played on the street. He performed in small cafes. Attended private parties. After a while, the work of the "Algerian refugee" was noticed and accepted into the musical theater.
Macias's career began to take shape after he formed his repertoire taking into account European tastes and preferences. In 1962 he recorded his first disc. Three years later, the chansonnier made his first tour of the cities of France. The success exceeded all expectations. After that, Enrico had the opportunity to regularly record his singles and albums. The next big tour took place in Lebanon, Greece and Turkey. Then the singer visited the Soviet Union, where he was given a warm welcome.
Recognition and privacy
In 1966, Enrico Macias performed at Moscow's Dynamo stadium, where he was greeted by 120,000 spectators. The singer did not have such concerts in other cities and countries. In 1980, the UN Secretary General named him the "Singer of Peace".
The personal life of the famous chansonnier has developed well. He got married while still in his native Algerian land. The husband and wife experienced all the hardships and joys together. They have a son who is engaged in production activities.
