Talented people often have to overcome difficulties on their creative path. The famous actor and chansonnier Enrico Macias had to risk his life when moving from Algeria to France.
Starting conditions
Folk motifs have long been 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 in the territory of modern Algeria. 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 platform where vocal and instrumental compositions sounded was located in one of the best restaurants in the city.
The child grew up under the supervision of a mother. At an early age he began to demonstrate musical abilities. By the age of fifteen, Enrico had mastered the technique of playing the guitar perfectly. After graduating from college, he decided to earn a living as a professional musician. At the request of his father, he was accepted into the Raymond team. To secure himself financially, Masias worked as a primary school teacher during the day, and went on stage with a 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 did not have time for songs. Moreover, the composer Sheik Raymond was brutally murdered. Only a hasty escape under cover of night allowed Enrico Masias 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 some time, the work of the "Algerian refugee" was noticed and accepted into the musical theater.
Masias' career began to take shape after he formed his repertoire taking into account European tastes and passions. In 1962, he recorded his first record. Three years later, the chansonnier made his first tour of the cities of France. Success exceeded all expectations. After that, Enrico got 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.
