Renaud’s Triumphant Return: Three New Albums and a Milestone Concert
Paris, 16 January 2026 – French icon Renaud, the outspoken singer-songwriter known for hits like ‘Mistral Gagnant’ and ‘Dès que le vent soufflera’, is gearing up for a prolific year with three new albums and a spectacular 50th anniversary concert at the Zénith de Paris in May.
Three Albums in the Pipeline
Renaud, aged 73, revealed in November 2025 during an interview on France Inter that he is working on three distinct albums. The first, an original work, is currently in the writing phase, with three songs already completed and six or seven more needed to round it out. He aims to release it early in 2026, drawing inspiration from contemporary issues like the murder of George Floyd, as well as personal themes dedicated to his daughter and son.
The second album will feature reprises of Georges Brassens songs, following the success of his 1996 tribute album. Renaud expressed enthusiasm for this project, noting Brassens’ admiration for Charles Trenet, which inspired the third album: a collection of Trenet reprises. This ambitious endeavour, focusing on Trenet’s ‘pure poetry’, may take up to eight years, but Renaud remains optimistic about his long-term creative vision.
50th Anniversary Celebration at Zénith Paris
To mark 50 years in the music industry, Renaud will perform three sold-out concerts at the Zénith de Paris – La Villette on 14, 15, and 16 May 2026. The shows will feature special guests including Jean-Louis Aubert, Francis Cabrel, Nicola Sirkis from Indochine, Claire Keim, Emily Loizeau, Renan Luce, Mentissa, Pascal Obispo, Noé Preszow, Axelle Red, Jean-Paul Rouve, Olivia Ruiz, and Anne Sila. Vianney will appear on 15 and 16 May, while Hugues Aufray joins on those dates, and Bénabar on the final night.
The setlist promises classics such as ‘Morgane de Toi’, ‘Manhattan-Kaboul’, ‘Dès que le vent soufflera’, ‘Hexagone’, ‘Marche à l’ombre’, ‘Mistral Gagnant’, ‘Manu’, and ‘Laisse béton’. Tickets went on sale exclusively via Renaud’s website on 17 November 2025, with general sales following on 19 November.
Key Facts: Renaud’s Career Highlights
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Albums Sold | Over 20 million worldwide |
| Major Hits | ‘Mistral Gagnant’, ‘Manhattan-Kaboul’, ‘Toujours Debout’ |
| Awards | 5 Victoires de la Musique, including Male Artist of the Year in 2017 |
| Personal Life | Married to Cerise in May 2024; children Lolita and Malone |
| Health Update | Recovering from a stroke suffered years ago, with ongoing rehabilitation |
Frequently Asked Questions
When will Renaud’s new albums be released?
The original album is slated for early 2026, with the Brassens reprises following later, and the Trenet album potentially taking several years.
Who are the guests at the May 2026 concerts?
A star-studded lineup includes Jean-Louis Aubert, Francis Cabrel, Nicola Sirkis, Claire Keim, and others, varying by night.
How is Renaud’s health?
Despite a past stroke, Renaud is in rehabilitation and supported by his wife Cerise, allowing him to continue performing.