French Rockstar & Lifelong Harley Fan Johnny Hallyday Laid to Rest
Hundreds of Harleys roared down Champs-Elysées to say goodbye to French legend.
Johnny Hallyday was known as the “French Elvis,” and was one of France’s most beloved musicians; an icon and a household name. Hallyday passed away last week, and was honored this past weekend in a two day memorial that included one of his greatest passions in life: Harley-Davidson. Over one hundred thousand fans attended the memorial service, reports USA Today, including heads of state, stars, fans, and over 700 Harleys.
Hallyday rose to fame in 1960, and was credited with bringing rock-n-roll to France in its native tongue. He was a huge hit in music, hitting the top of the charts and staying there for decades. He recorded over 1,000 songs, sold hundreds of millions of records, and went on the road for over 100 tours. He also acted in several films as well. In his early days he was the rebellious face of counter-culture swagger, made all the more so by his love of motorcycles.
Harley-Davidson was as synonymous to Johnny Hallyday as purple was to Prince. Hallyday incorporated his passion for bikes and riding into his work, recording many songs about motorcycles, such as Pour Que Ma Harley Repose En Paix (May My Harley-Davidson Rest in Peace), and he would often ride onstage on one of his many Harleys. Hallyday had spent much of the last several years living in Los Angeles, recording music, performing, and riding his bikes in the desert.
At the memorial, fans lined the streets, singing his songs, many wearing motorcycle jackets in tribute. The procession included hundreds of motorcycles, and one very special bike stood out: a blue Harley-Davidson Softail Springer 89 that had once belonged to the singer.
We can’t think of a better send off for a true blue biker. Au revoir, Johnny.
