He has been active for over 60 years, having written some of the most memorable French songs of the past century and establishing himself as one of the classic singers of the chanson genre. Besides his several solo tours, he has also performed with some of the most famous entertainers of the time, including Edith Piaf, Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles, Placido Domingo, Andrea Bocelli, Sting, Youssou N’Dour and Bob Dylan. 

After the massive earthquake in Armenia in 1988, he led a significant humanitarian effort to raise awareness and funds for those stricken.