Québec Bids Farewell to Legendary Composer Stéphane Venne

Québec Bids Farewell to Legendary Composer Stéphane Venne

Québec Bids Farewell to Legendary Composer Stéphane Venne

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Stéphane Venne, a monumental figure in Québec’s music history, has left us at the age of 83. A prolific songwriter and composer, Venne penned over 400 songs that became anthems of a generation, including Et c’est pas fini , Le temps est bon , and Un jour, un jour , the theme of Expo 67. His passing on January 17th, 2025, was marked by profound dignity, opting for medical assistance in dying after battling an incurable illness.

Born in Verdun in 1941, Venne’s career began in his teens, crafting melodies that resonated deeply with Québécois identity. By the 1960s, his songs had gained traction, amplified by collaborations with celebrated artists like Renée Claude and Isabelle Pierre. His music wasn’t just about entertainment; it reflected cultural shifts, becoming a soundtrack for the province’s evolving identity during the Quiet Revolution.

In addition to music, Venne was a man of many passions. He composed film scores, presided over SOCAN, and contributed significantly to Québec’s cultural legacy. He was known for his meticulous attention to lyrics and his ability to bridge chansonniers and pop culture, earning him a place in the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2017.

Venne’s influence extended beyond his music. He nurtured emerging talent, most notably Marie-Élaine Thibert, whose debut album he co-wrote. As Thibert recalls, he was a mentor and friend, guiding her to success with care and inspiration.

In his final moments, surrounded by his wife, Marie Dumais, and their children, Venne found peace. His legacy lives on through his timeless compositions and the indelible mark he left on Québec’s musical and cultural landscape. As his wife reflected, "Québec loses a great composer, but his work remains eternal."

With his passing, Québec mourns not only a remarkable artist but also a man whose art captured the soul of a nation.

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