Téléphone
The Greatest French Rock Band
Formation and Early Years
Téléphone was formed in Paris in 1976 by Jean-Louis Aubert (vocals, guitar), Louis Bertignac (guitar), Corine Marienneau (bass), and Richard Kolinka (drums). The band became one of the leading forces of French rock and new wave during the 1980s.
Success and Major Albums
From their self-titled debut album (1977), Téléphone established a style of energetic rock sung in French. Au cœur de la nuit (1980) and Dure Limite (1982) featured classics such as “Un autre monde”, “Ça (c’est vraiment toi)”, and “New York avec toi”.
The band filled Zénith arenas and stadiums across France.
Téléphone was the first French rock band to sell out the Palais Omnisports de Paris-Bercy, a remarkable achievement in a genre largely dominated by Anglo-American artists. Their powerful live performances and Jean-Louis Aubert’s lyrics, blending urban poetry with rock-driven intensity, resonated with an entire generation of young French fans.
Breakup and Legacy
Téléphone split up in 1986 at the height of its popularity. Jean-Louis Aubert and Louis Bertignac both went on to enjoy successful solo careers. Les Insus (without Corine Marienneau) reunited for a series of special concerts between 2015 and 2017.
Iconic Guitars
Louis Bertignac is closely associated with the Fender Telecaster and the Gibson Les Paul. Jean-Louis Aubert plays Fender Stratocasters as well as Martin acoustic guitars.
