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Serge Lama

Serge Lama is a French singer and songwriter born Serge Chauvier in Bordeaux in 1943.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated September 10, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Serge Lama (born Serge Claude Bernard Chauvier, 11 February 1943) is a French singer and songwriter known for his work in chanson. He became one of the best-known figures in the genre, with songs such as 'Je suis malade' and 'Les P'tites Femmes de Pigalle,' and represented France at the 1971 Eurovision Song Contest. His music has a strong audience in francophone Canada, especially Quebec.

Early life and background

Serge Lama was born Serge Claude Bernard Chauvier in Bordeaux, France, in 1943. Sources describe him as beginning to write songs in childhood before pursuing music professionally. He launched his recording career in 1964.

Music career

Lama launched his recording career in 1964 and became one of the most popular French singers of his generation. His repertoire helped define modern French chanson, and he released numerous studio and live albums over several decades. His catalogue includes widely known songs such as 'D'aventures en aventures,' 'Les Ballons rouges,' and 'Femme, femme, femme.'

Eurovision Song Contest

In 1971, Lama represented France at the Eurovision Song Contest with 'Un jardin sur la terre.' The song placed tenth in the contest.

Signature songs and legacy

'Je suis malade' is widely identified as his signature song and was originally written for Alice Dona before being performed by several artists. Other songs associated with him include 'Les P'tites Femmes de Pigalle' and 'Femme, femme, femme.' He announced the end of his stage career in 2023 for health reasons.

Key facts

  • He began his career in 1964 and became popular in French chanson from the late 1960s.
  • His best-known song is 'Je suis malade,' written with Alice Dona.
  • He represented France at the 1971 Eurovision Song Contest with 'Un jardin sur la terre,' which finished tenth.
  • His catalogue includes widely known songs such as 'D'aventures en aventures,' 'Les Ballons rouges,' and 'Femme, femme, femme.'
  • He announced the end of his stage career in 2023 for health reasons.
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Canadian context

Serge Lama is relevant to Canadian readers through the global French-language chanson tradition, which also has a strong audience in francophone Canada, especially Quebec.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Serge Lama?
Serge Lama is a French singer and songwriter known for his work in chanson and for songs such as 'Je suis malade.'
What is Serge Lama's birth name?
His birth name is Serge Claude Bernard Chauvier.
When was Serge Lama born?
He was born on 11 February 1943.
What song is Serge Lama best known for?
He is best known for 'Je suis malade,' written with Alice Dona.
Did Serge Lama take part in Eurovision?
Yes. He represented France in the 1971 Eurovision Song Contest with 'Un jardin sur la terre.'
When did Serge Lama end his career?
He announced the end of his stage career in 2023 for health reasons.

References

  1. Wikipediahttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Serge_Lama
    Supports: Birth name, birth date, birthplace, occupation, signature song, Eurovision participation, and song title.
  2. Radio Francehttps://www.radiofrance.fr/personnes/serge-lama
    Supports: Birth date and birthplace, early interest in songwriting, career background, and awards.
  3. French Wikipediahttps://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Serge_Lama
    Supports: Career start in 1964, major songs, and status in French chanson.
  4. Linternautehttps://www.linternaute.com/musique/magazine/2741973-serge-lama-malade-de-quoi-souffre-le-chanteur/
    Supports: Early biography, accident and health-related retirement, and career ending in 2023.
  5. AllMusichttps://www.allmusic.com/artist/serge-lama-mn0000003952
    Supports: Musical style, reputation, and significance as a French songwriter.
  6. Wikidatahttps://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q560248
    Supports: Birth name, date of birth, birthplace, nationality, and occupations.