Jacques Brel
Last updated: February 7, 2026 at 9:44 AM
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1929
Birth
Jacques Brel was born in Schaerbeek, Brussels, Belgium.
1950
Marriage
Brel married Thérèse "Miche" Michielsen.
1953
Move to Paris
Brel moved to Paris to pursue a music career and signed with Philips.
1957
Breakthrough Hit
Brel's song "Quand On N’a Que l’Amour" became a major hit.
1966
Retirement announcement
Brel decided to quit performing on stage in 1966, with his last performance taking place in 1967.
1967
Last Performance
Brel's last performance took place.
1973
Cancer diagnosis
He was diagnosed with lung cancer.
1976
Travel to Marquesas Islands
Brel traveled to the Marquesas Islands.
1978
Death
Jacques Brel died in Bobigny, France.