Lou Deprijck obituary

Remembering Lou Deprijck: Belgian Pop Icon and Creative Genius

Belgium and the global music community are mourning the loss of a true legend with the passing of Lou Deprijck on September 19, 2023. Born on January 11, 1946, in Lessines, Belgium, Deprijck left an indelible mark on the world of music, particularly in the Belgian pop scene of the 1970s and 1980s.

Lou Deprijck’s musical journey was a remarkable one, characterized by extraordinary talent and groundbreaking achievements. With over 20 million copies of his compositions sold worldwide, he secured his place as one of the best-selling Belgian artists of all time.

Deprijck’s journey to stardom was marked by his role as the producer and the real singer behind Plastic Bertrand’s iconic 1978 hit, “Ça plane pour moi.” This electrifying track transcended the French-language music scene and soared to become a global sensation, captivating audiences around the world.

The song’s infectious energy and catchy lyrics propelled it to the top ten charts in the UK, the Netherlands, West Germany, Australia, and New Zealand. It achieved chart-topping success in France and Switzerland, showcasing the international appeal of Deprijck’s artistry. In his home country, Belgium, the song secured the eleventh spot, further cementing his status as a celebrated Belgian musician.

However, the song was not without its controversies. At the center of a legal dispute for years, the truth behind its creation and performance was finally resolved in 2010. While Plastic Bertrand, whose real name is Roger Jouret, toured the world performing the beloved hit, it was revealed that it was, in fact, Lou Deprijck who lent his voice to the iconic track.

“Ça plane pour moi” has etched itself into the annals of music history, garnering over 900,000 copies in global sales and earning its place as a “punk-new wave-pop classic.” The song’s enduring popularity continues to inspire and resonate with music lovers of all generations.

In his later years, Lou Deprijck had been battling health problems and was receiving medical care at a Brussels hospital. His passing marks the end of an era in the world of Belgian pop music, leaving behind a legacy that will forever be celebrated.

As the world remembers and pays tribute to Lou Deprijck, his contributions to the music industry will continue to reverberate through the melodies and rhythms that he gifted to the world. His unique talent and indomitable spirit will be dearly missed but never forgotten.