French singer Sacha Distel has died after a long illness, he was 71. Distel, who recorded more than 200 songs after beginning his career as a jazz guitarist at the age of 16, died yesterday in Rayol-Canadel in the region of Var.
Tributes aplenty overnight for the singer who, despite being best known for his hits in the 60s and 70s, enjoyed a long successful career as a singer, actor and TV host.
French singer Mireille Mathieu told reporters she was "devastated" by Distel's death, adding: "I owe him so much. He gave me first chance to sing on the Sacha Show [Distel's US TV show] in 1965. He is the spiritual son of Maurice Chevalier. His songs enchanted us. Listening to his songs made us feel young again. He was an ambassador of charm and French romanticism. We will always remember Mr Scoubidou."
The producer of the West End musical Chicago - in which Distel appeared for three months in 2000 - told reporters: "I'm deeply saddened by the news of Sacha's passing. The West End company of Chicago was honoured to count him as a member of their family. His legendary talent, warmth and generous spirit will be greatly missed."