Robert Charlebois

Robert Charlebois is a Canadian singer-songwriter, composer, musician, performer, and actor from Montreal, Quebec.

Robert Charlebois is a Canadian singer-songwriter, composer, musician, performer, and actor from Montreal, Quebec. He is widely regarded as a major figure in Quebec music and francophone popular song, with a career spanning more than six decades.

Early life and beginnings

Robert Charlebois was born in Montreal on June 25, 1944. He began his career as a performer in the early 1960s, opening for Félix Leclerc in 1962. His early stage work quickly led to recognition in Quebec’s music scene.

Music career

Charlebois became known for blending rock, blues, folk, and chanson, and for using Quebec French in his lyrics. His work helped popularize rock-influenced Quebec chanson. He is often credited with helping reshape modern Quebec popular music, with genres including psychedelic rock, folk rock, rock, and chanson.

Acting and other work

In addition to music, Charlebois has worked as an actor and appeared in film and other screen productions. His career has included work as an author and composer as well as a performer.

Honours and legacy

Charlebois has received major Canadian and Quebec honours, including being named an Officer of the Order of Canada and an Officer of the National Order of Quebec. He was inducted into the Canadian Association of Broadcasters’ Hall of Fame in 2008. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential artists in Quebec francophone culture.