Gilbert Bécaud

Gilbert Bécaud (October 24, 1927 – December 18, 2001) was a French singer, composer and actor, known as Monsieur 100,000 Volts for his energetic performances. His best-known hit is probably "Et maintenant", a

Gilbert Bécaud (October 24, 1927 – December 18, 2001) was a French singer, composer and actor, known as Monsieur 100,000 Volts for his energetic performances. His best-known hit is probably "Et maintenant", a 1961 release that became an English language hit after being translated into "What Now My Love".

Born in Toulon, Bécaud learned to play the piano at a young age, and then went to the Conservatoire de Nice. In 1942, he left school to join the French Resistance during World War II. He began songwriting in 1948, after meeting Maurice Vidalin, who inspired him to write his early compositions. He began writing for Marie Bizet; Bizet, Bécaud and Vidalin became an extremely successful trio, and their partnership lasted until 1950.