Among the Quebecers - 15

 

Trained as a lawyer, PIERRE ELLIOTT TRUDEAU (1919-2000) was a leader of the federal Liberal Party and Prime Minister of Canada during fifteen years, between 1968 and 1984. Several reproached him, especially the souverainists, not to have granted to Quebec a particular place in spite of his origins and his promises. On the other hand, everyone agree to recognize his charisma, his intelligence and his imposing presence which contributed to raise the fame of Canada on the world scene. Mr Trudeau was a Nana fan. He attended her concerts each time she performed in Ottawa. He also invited her to sing in the House of Commons.

Humorist since always, DANY TURCOTTE (1965- ) initially worked in trio "Le groupe sanguin" and in duet "Lévesque and Turcotte". After 20 years of show business and more than 2 000 performances from one end to another in Quebec, Dany became the court jester of the Quebec version "Tout le monde en parle". This talk show allowed him to meet Nana in 2006.

SERGE TURGEON (1946-2004) began his career as actor at 17 years old. He played as much in theatre as in the Television series. From the 1980’s, he continued a career of host and journalist on the radio. Burning defender of the creators and the culture, he chaired the Union des artistes from 1985 to 1998. Serge often commented Nana’s career and her songs on the radio. He also interviewed her after her show at the Olympia in Paris in 1982.

Since 1996, SONIA VACHON (1966- ) has a well filled diary while playing in TV series, in movies and in theatre. Talented actress, the press hailed the brilliance of her roles. Her expressivity, her naturalness and her simplicity make her one of the most likeable personalities of the Quebec Arts colony. During a TV show recording in 2003, Sonia had the surprise visit of Nana who sang a "Happy birthday" to her.

Recognized for her social involvement, MONIQUE VÉZINA (1935- ) has contributed to women's commitment in political life. Between 1984 and 1993, as member of the Conservative Party of Canada, she led several ministries. In 2007, she was elected Vice-President of the Board for the National Order of Quebec. This committee selects the personnalities who have participated in the influence and in the evolution of Quebec. She was alongside Nana when this one has been decorated with the medal of officer in May 2013. In her speech, Mrs. Vézina highlighted the contribution of her culture and ours that she defended, but also her bonds created with the Quebecers. She announced that her name will be engraved on a monument near the St. Lawrence River.

Chansonnier, composer, poet and storyteller, GILLES VIGNEAULT (1928- ) is the author of a colossal work including 400 songs and 40 books. He was the second, after Leclerc, to pave the way for Québécois artists towards France. A multitude of singers have also contributed to make known the work of the one who can write so well about the country, the people, the seasons and expeditions. Nana has a great respect for this artist whom she already crossed paths with on television sets in France. She often said that she would like to record one of his songs, but she did not dare doing so for fear not being authentic. However, she agreed with pleasure to take part in his first album of duets.

ROCH VOISINE (1963- ) was born in New Brunswick, but he began his career in Quebec. With "Helene" launched in 1989, he became the idol for the rising generation in France, phenomenon which had not been seen since Johnny Hallyday. Nana admires him. She attended his concerts and met him often. Their project to produce an album together was not realized. However, Nana recorded his song "Waiting" and they sang it in duet on stage in Paris, Montreal and in Ottawa. And in 2011, they united their voices on "Adieu Angelina", a Bob Dylan standard.

RUFUS WAINWRIGHT (1973- ) was born in New York State and spent most of his childhood in Montreal. He’s the son of folk singers Kate McGarrigle and Loudon Wainwright III. Rufus made his beginnings in music at the age of thirteen while composing a movie theme. Since 1998, he has an active career and performs regularly in concert. Depending on the occasion, he sings in front of the orchestra by accompanying himself on the piano, whether it be baroque, operatic or indie pop music. His albums appear in the Canadian, American, British, Dutch charts ...and get several awards. Rufus Wainwright is one of the greatest singers-songwriters of his generation. Nana attended some of his concerts in Paris.

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