French singer and actress Catherine Ringer has died. Her family announced that she passed away on Monday at the age of 68, as Le Figaro reports. She was known to a wide audience as the voice of the duo Les Rita Mitsouko, which rose to fame in the 1980s with its distinctive blend of synth-pop, punk, and avant-garde influences. Ringer was not only known for her distinctive voice and songs, but also as an artistic figure who closely intertwined music, style, and performance.
Les Rita Mitsouko Began Their Career in 1979 With Fred Chichin
In 1979, Ringer formed the duo Les Rita Mitsouko with Fred Chichin. Chichin later died at the age of 53. Together, they developed a sound that blended progressive rock, avant-garde pop, and punk. Their music videos also stood out for combining art, kitsch, and satire. This set the duo apart from many other pop acts of the time and established a style that remains closely associated with their name.
“Marcia Baila” Made the Duo Famous Beyond France
In 1984, the duo scored a summer hit with “Marcia Baila.” This was followed by other successful songs such as “Singing in the Shower” and “C’est comme ça.” Their music brought the duo recognition beyond France, while Ringer’s distinctive voice and their unusual visual style became key elements of their performances. Their success extended well beyond a single hit and continued across several releases.
