Jean-Pierre Ferland, the singer-songwriter who left an indelible mark on Quebec’s cultural scene over a career spanning six decades, passed away at the age of 89 on Saturday.
The agency representing Mr. Ferland confirmed his death due to natural causes after he was hospitalized earlier this year. His iconic song “une chance qu’on s’a” is considered a timeless classic in Quebec’s music landscape.
Born in Montreal on June 24, 1934, Ferland was a prolific artist who released around 30 albums, including the highly acclaimed “Jaune,” which sold 60,000 copies within a year of its 1970 release.
He was honored as an officer of the Order of Canada and a knight of the National Order of Quebec. In 2007, he was inducted into Canada’s Songwriters Hall of Fame.
In 2007, Mr. Ferland held a retirement concert at Montreal’s Bell Centre after a career spanning over four decades. However, he continued to perform and record music until 2021.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau paid tribute to Ferland, hailing him as a “giant” of francophone music.
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“He composed and performed songs that will forever be ingrained in Quebec’s culture,” Trudeau expressed. “His absence will be deeply felt.”
Quebec Premier François Legault hailed Ferland as a “pioneering figure in Quebec-French music,” revealing his personal fondness for the album “Jaune.”
Mr. Legault announced that the government is prepared to organize a state funeral for Mr. Ferland if his family agrees.
Canadian singer Roch Voisine paid tribute to Ferland, describing him as an “incomparable” artist.
“His album ‘Jaune’ was a game-changer,” Voisine remarked. “Rest in peace, Mr. Ferland.”
Although initially working as an accountant, Ferland transitioned into a prominent figure in Quebec’s cultural sphere after releasing his first songs in 1958.
By the 1960s, he had established himself in both Quebec and internationally, with the release of “Jaune” solidifying his reputation in 1970.
In the 1970s, Mr. Ferland ventured into television and film, showcasing his talents as an actor, scriptwriter, and host in various productions.
Despite officially retiring in 2006 following a stroke, Ferland continued to create music, giving notable performances such as the 2008 concert on Quebec City’s Plains of Abraham, celebrating the city’s 400th anniversary alongside other Quebec stars like CĂ©line Dion and Ginette Reno. He also released new albums like “Bijoux de famille” in 2009 and the live album “Les Noces d’or de jaune” in 2011.
“I thought I had left this profession, I stopped, I did a farewell show. But it didn’t last long,” he shared in a 2021 interview with Radio-Canada. “I felt ashamed, but I returned as quickly as possible. It’s the best job in the world.”
Mr. Ferland is survived by his partner, two children, four grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.
