- French rock star sold 110 million records during his illustrious career
- Launched to fame in the 1950s and became known for his rockabilly style
- Was seen as the biggest music star outside of the English speaking world
The French rock star and actor Johnny Hallyday has died aged 74, according Agence France Presse.
The music star who has sold more than 110 million records during his career had been battling lung cancer.
Known as the ‘French Elvis’, he popularized rock and roll by covering hit songs by American stars such as Gene Vincent, Eddie Cochrane and of course, Elvis.
The singer – real name Jean-Philippe Smet – was known for a while ‘as the biggest rock star you have never heard of’ and his success in the French-speaking world was unmatched for years.
Star: Johnny Hallyday is seen in this picture from September. He passed away after fighting lung cancer