French conductor Paul Mauriat died on Nov. 3 in Perpignan, France, at the age of 81.
A composer and conductor who specialized in “light” music, Mauriat was known worldwide for his 1968 instrumental hit cover of “Love Is Blue,” composed by André Popp with original lyrics by Pierre Cour.
Along with composer Franck Pourcel and lyricist Jacques Plante, Mauriat also composed the song “Chariot,” which was later a hit for Little Peggy March in 1963 as “I will Follow Him”. The song was used in the 90’s movie “Sister Act,” starring Whoopi Goldberg.
Born 4 March, 1925 in Marseille, Mauriat achieved fame after World War II with his own orchestra. He notably toured and wrote arrangements for French superstar singer Charles Aznavour.
Mauriat last performed in 1998 but his orchestra has continued to travel the world.