In his new album, David Hallyday addresses a theme that is dear to him: filiation. This theme is not just an abstract concept for him, but a reality deeply rooted in his personal history. Part of his roots take him back to Belgium, where he had the opportunity to meet his grandfather, Léon Smet.
David Hallyday, son of the legendary Johnny Hallyday, remembers his meetings with his grandfather, Léon Smet, although these were rare and took place in special circumstances. “I was very small the first time, I was five or six years old, and then I must have been eight years old. I met him in an elevator and what struck me were really the eyes of family”he confides.
As a reminder, Johnny Hallyday grew up in a torn family without a father figure. He was abandoned by his father at the age of six months and his mother entrusted him to his aunt.
He did a lot of things
Died in 1989, Léon Smet rests in the Schaerbeek cemetery. David Hallyday recently took over the management of his grave, a step that he considers natural. “He was quite an exciting person, in that he was also an artist.”, he explains. Léon Smet was a versatile figure in the Belgian artistic world, having contributed to various fields: cinema, literature and theater. “He did a lot of things. I think he made the first silent film in Belgium. He was an actor, he wrote books and novels,” says David.
For David, taking over the management of his grandfather’s tomb is not only a family duty, but also a tribute to the artistic heritage he received. “I took part in this artistic fiber too,” he emphasizes. Recognizing the lonely end of Léon Smet’s life, David believes that caring for his memory is the least he can do to honor this family and artistic connection. “It’s true that he ended his life a little alone, but unfortunately, it was the least he could do to do that again, it was natural,” he says with emotion.
This reflection on filiation and family heritage finds particular resonance in his latest album “Requiem pour un fou”, where he explores these themes through his music. By paying tribute to his grandfather, David Hallyday celebrates not only his Belgian roots, but also the richness of a family history marked by art and creativity.
david hallyday
chanteur
Johnny Hallyday
