Catherine Ringer, an icon of French alternative music, has left an indelible mark on the hexagonal pop rock. At 67, this tireless artist continues to illuminate the music scene. In 1979, she co-founded Rita Mitsouko, creating a unique style that still resonates today.
Her career, marked by twists and turns, illustrates exceptional resilience. After the death of Fred Chichin in 2007, Ringer continues her solo journey. She released two albums: “Ring n’ Roll” in 2011 and “Chroniques et fantaisies” in 2017.
Recently, her tour “L’Érotisme de Vivre” faced obstacles. Three concerts were canceled due to an accident causing a fracture and a shoulder dislocation. Despite these challenges, Ringer remains determined to honor the legacy of Rita Mitsouko.
Key Points to Remember
- Catherine Ringer, 67, is still active on the French music scene
- Co-founder of Rita Mitsouko in 1979
- Released two solo albums after the death of Fred Chichin
- Her recent tour “L’Érotisme de Vivre” started in September 2023
- Continues to pay tribute to the legacy of Rita Mitsouko in her performances
- Has overcome personal and professional challenges throughout her career
- Potentially considering a final performance with Rita Mitsouko at 80
Catherine Ringer's Artistic Beginnings
Catherine Ringer, born in 1957 in Suresnes, began her artistic career at a very young age. The daughter of a Polish Jewish painter, she developed an early passion for art and expression.
An Eclectic Artistic Training
Catherine Ringer's training is characterized by its diversity. At 8, she became a child model for fashion magazines. This experience introduced her to the camera and the stage.
The First Stage Experiences
At 13, Catherine left her family to live her life as an artist. Her first significant experiences took place at the Théâtre de Recherche Musicale of Michael Lonsdale.
In 1976, she danced with choreographer Marcia Moretto at the Café de la Gare. This experience would later inspire her song Marcia Baïla.
The Defining Encounter with Fred Chichin
In 1979, Catherine Ringer had a meeting that changed her life. During the show “Flashes rouges,” she met Fred Chichin, former guitarist of Gazoline.
This encounter marked the beginning of a fruitful artistic collaboration. It would give birth to Rita Mitsouko, an iconic duo of the French rock scene.
The Birth of Rita Mitsouko
In 1980, a new chapter opened in the history of French music. Rita Mitsouko, the emblematic duo formed by Catherine Ringer and Fred Chichin, was born. Their impact on the French music industry would be indelible.
The Origin of the Band's Name
The name Rita Mitsouko reflects the duo's creative and bold spirit. Rita evokes Rita Hayworth, a cinema icon. Mitsouko refers to the famous perfume by Guerlain.
This surprising association creates an intriguing international sound. It aligns perfectly with the group's unique artistic identity.
The First Steps in the Music Industry
Rita Mitsouko began by opening for the New York band Indoor Life. This French tour allowed them to get noticed. They refined their unique style, blending pop, rock, and various influences.
The Signing with Virgin France
The talent and originality of Rita Mitsouko caught attention. In 1981, the duo signed their first recording contract with Virgin France. This crucial collaboration led to their first single, “Minuit dansant.”
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1980 | Formation of the Rita Mitsouko group |
| 1981 | Signing with Virgin France |
| 1981 | Release of the first single “Minuit dansant” |
The Media Explosion and Success
Rita Mitsouko experienced a meteoric success in the 1980s. Their hit “Marcia Baïla,” released in 1984, propelled them to the forefront of the French music scene. This iconic track, taken from their first album, embodies their unique style.
The music video for “Marcia Baïla” left a lasting impression. Directed by Philippe Gautier, it features Catherine Ringer in a corset dress by Jean-Paul Gaultier. This bold image symbolizes the duo's originality and remains etched in collective memory.
Rita Mitsouko followed up with successes like “Andy” and “C'est comme ça.” Their music, a fusion of funk, new wave, and jazz, redefined the French musical landscape. The group's innovative music videos amplified their growing popularity.
| Title | Year of Release | Album |
|---|---|---|
| Marcia Baïla | 1984 | Rita Mitsouko |
| Andy | 1986 | The No Comprendo |
| C'est comme ça | 1986 | The No Comprendo |
| Les Histoires d'A | 1985 | Rita Mitsouko |
Catherine Ringer: A Unique Artist
Catherine Ringer, an icon of the French music scene, shines with her exceptional talent. Her career spanning over twenty years has left a mark. Her distinctive vocal style and remarkable stage presence make her an unmissable artist.
A Distinctive Vocal Style
Catherine Ringer's voice is her signature. Powerful and versatile, she explores a wide range of emotions. From dance hits to bittersweet ballads, she excels in conveying intense feelings.
A Remarkable Stage Presence
On stage, Catherine Ringer is a force of nature. Her overflowing energy and theatrical performances captivate the audience. She embodies the insolence and kitsch of the 1980s brilliantly.
Her lyrics tackle deep themes. Her unique stage presence has revolutionized French rock for three decades.
An Avant-Garde Artistic Personality
Catherine Ringer's avant-gardism is reflected in her musical approach and image. Her look, blending Japanese and Parisian influences, defies conventions. Her collaboration with Fred Chichin produced unique sound effects.
This artistic boldness allowed Rita Mitsouko to create a delirious aesthetic. Their style has profoundly marked the landscape of French pop.
| Artistic Aspect | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Vocal Style | Powerful, versatile, expressive |
| Stage Presence | Energetic, theatrical, captivating |
| Artistic Personality | Avant-garde, bold, unconventional |
Significant Collaborations
Catherine Ringer, an icon of French music, has forged numerous collaborations over the years. Her memorable duets and varied artistic projects illustrate her creative versatility. Her musical journey has been enriched by these unique experiences.
Memorable Duets
The collaboration with the American group Sparks stands out particularly. Rita Mitsouko created with this duo tracks that marked French music. Songs like “Singing in the Shower” and “Live in Las Vegas” were born from this stylistic fusion.
Parallel Artistic Projects
Catherine Ringer has explored horizons beyond Rita Mitsouko. In 2006, she composed for the show “Les Noces de l’Enfant-Roi” by Alfredo Arias. More recently, she released “Catherine Ringer sings Les Rita Mitsouko,” a double album and DVD.
A box set released in 2019 gathers the complete works of the seven albums and 80 songs by Rita Mitsouko. During her recent concerts, Catherine Ringer, 63, was accompanied by her son Raoul Chichin on guitar.
The Musical Legacy of Rita Mitsouko
Rita Mitsouko has marked the French scene since 1979. Their varied musical legacy still influences contemporary artists. The duo revolutionized French rock, leaving an indelible mark on the music industry.
Their discography includes seven remastered studio albums. “Marcia Baila,” released in 1984, achieved a resounding success on free radio. The album “The No Comprendo” from 1986 marked a turning point in their career.
Rita Mitsouko collaborated with renowned producers like Tony Visconti and Conny Plank. Their influence extends beyond music, with innovative videos showcasing the creations of Jean-Paul Gaultier and Thierry Mugler.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Studio Albums | 7 remastered |
| Available Vinyls | 13 |
| Content of the Complete Works | Includes unreleased tracks and rarities |
| Iconic Song | “Marcia Baila” (1984) |
The death of Fred Chichin in 2007 marked the end of the group. However, Catherine Ringer continues the legacy of Rita Mitsouko. She pursues tours, accompanied by her son Raoul on guitar, maintaining the duo's innovative spirit.
The Solo Career After Rita Mitsouko
The death of Fred Chichin in 2007 marked a turning point for Catherine Ringer. She embarked on a determined solo career, characterized by innovation and constant artistic evolution.
The New Musical Projects
In 2010, Catherine Ringer unveiled “Ring n’ Roll,” her first solo album. This ambitious project blends her musical heritage with new artistic directions. The album presents a series of tracks with varied atmospheres, reflecting the richness of her creative universe.
The Recent Tours
The stage remains Catherine Ringer's favorite playground. In 2008, she honored the legacy of Rita Mitsouko with a special tour. In 2023, she launched “L’Érotisme de vivre,” her new tour, showcasing her enduring passion for live performance.
The Artistic Evolution
Catherine Ringer's solo career is characterized by constant evolution. Her collaborations with RZA and John Frusciante enrich her musical style. Her eclectic approach, combining South American flutes and Egyptian music, illustrates her overflowing creativity.
| Year | Project | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| 2008 | Tour “Catherine Ringer sings the Rita Mitsouko and more” | Tribute to the duo and continuation of the musical legacy |
| 2010 | Solo Album “Ring n’ Roll” | Exploration of new musical directions |
| 2023 | Tour “L’Érotisme de vivre” | Artistic renewal and stage commitment |
The Influence on the French Music Scene
Catherine Ringer, an icon of French music, exerts considerable influence. At 65, she continues her creative journey boldly. Her originality inspires the new generation of artists.
The Impact on the New Generation
The legacy of Rita Mitsouko, founded in 1980 by Ringer and Chichin, endures. Their eclectic style blends hip-hop, funk, and world music. This bold fusion paves the way for innovative musical expression.
The group's influence is evident among young artists. Fans aged 17 to 25 flock to her recent performances, demonstrating her intergenerational appeal.
Institutional Recognition
The longevity and evolution of Ringer earn her undeniable recognition. Her album “Chroniques et fantaisies” (2017) illustrates her ability to reinvent herself. The show “L’érotisme de vivre” adapts the poems of Alice Mendelson.
The 40th-anniversary tour of Rita Mitsouko in 2019 confirms their lasting impact. Ringer's journey, starting at 13, inspires artists to overcome adversity.
Her collaboration with Tony Visconti, producer of David Bowie, shaped the unique sound of Rita Mitsouko. This indelible mark continues to influence contemporary French music.
Conclusion
Catherine Ringer, an icon of French music, leaves an indelible mark on the industry. At 65, this versatile artist constantly evolves, transitioning from Rita Mitsouko to a flourishing solo career. Her unique voice and captivating stage presence make her a living legend.
Her influence on the French music scene is undeniable. Her collaborations with Bernard Lavilliers and Marc Lavoine have created unforgettable tracks. Her 2020 album, “Catherine Ringer sings Les Rita Mitsouko at the Philharmonie de Paris,” reflects her rich artistic journey.
Despite the loss of Fred Chichin in 2007, Catherine Ringer has rebounded with determination. She passionately pursues her career, juggling music, theater, and television. Her show “L’érotisme de vivre” and her participation in “Capitaine Marleau” illustrate her artistic versatility.
Catherine Ringer remains an inexhaustible source of inspiration for the new generation of French artists. Her ability to reinvent herself and push artistic boundaries continues to fascinate audiences.
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