French Singer Herbert Léonard Dies at 80

Known for his iconic 1981 hit 'Pour le plaisir,' Léonard passed away from lung cancer after a storied career in music and beyond.

Herbert Léonard, born Hubert Lœnhardt in 1945 in Strasbourg, was a celebrated French singer who rose to fame in the 1980s.
He achieved massive success with 'Pour le plaisir,' composed by Julien Lepers, which sold over 2.5 million copies and became a cultural touchstone.
Léonard's career was marked by highs and lows, including a serious car accident in 1970 and a brief hiatus during which he pursued his passion for aviation journalism.
He passed away on March 2, 2025, at the age of 80 in Fontainebleau, succumbing to a battle with lung cancer that he had openly discussed in recent years.
Léonard's legacy includes a catalog of popular songs, collaborations with artists like Julie Pietri, and a lasting impact on French pop music.