Nicolas Peyrac

During his studies he discovered a passion for photography, which brought him into contact with the music business: through a family friend he had a chance to make record sleeves for artists like Alice Dona, Hervé Vilard and Gilbert Bécaud. The latter introduced him to producer Patrick Legrand (brother of composer Michel Legrand), to whom he showed some lyrics he had written. This started his career as a songwriter, writing for artists like Marie Laforêt and Gérard Lenorman. Soon after he signed a contract with Pathé-Marconi.

In 1974, Jean-Jacques, now using the stage name Nicolas Peyrac, released his first two singles, but to limited or no success.

Just when he was about to lose his record deal with Pathé due to failure of success, Nicolas released the critically acclaimed 1975 song So far away from L.A., which made him an overnight star. Dropping his medical studies almost near the end (in his sixth year), he concentrated on his musical career, releasing his next hit song Et mon père ("And my father") for which he received a 'French Grammy', the prix de l’UNAC. Within a few months, he became part of the most talented musicians of his generation.

Continuing the 1975 success, Nicolas released several albums, and was supporting act for stars like Serge Lama, Marie-Paule Belle et Dalida. He also regularly headlined, taking him all the way to Japan.