Nino Ferrer studied medicine

Nino Ferrer, a name synonymous with timeless hits like “Mirza” and “Le Sud,” is known for his soulful voice and remarkable songwriting skills. But did you know that before he embarked on his successful music career, Ferrer actually studied ? This lesser-known fact adds a fascinating layer to his already enigmatic persona.

Born on August 15, 1934, in Genoa, Italy, Nino Agostino Arturo Maria Ferrari (the artist later changed his surname to Ferrer) grew up in a multi-cultural household. His father, an Italian engineer, and his mother, a French journalist, instilled in him a love for art, music, and literature from a very young age.

Ferrer’s passion for music began to blossom during his teenage years when he started playing the guitar and singing. However, his parents had different plans for him. They wanted him to pursue a more stable career, which led him to enroll in medical school at the age of 17.

During his time at medical school in Paris, Ferrer found it increasingly difficult to suppress his true passion for music. He would often spend his free time playing in local clubs, honing his skills and experimenting with different musical styles. As his musical pursuits intensified, Ferrer’s focus on medicine began to wane.

In the late 1950s, Ferrer made a momentous decision. He put his medical studies on hold and moved to the United States to pursue a career in music. This audacious move marked the beginning of his journey as a musician, which would eventually lead him to become one of France’s most beloved artists.

Ferrer’s time in the United States deeply influenced his music, exposing him to various genres such as blues, jazz, and rock and roll. He soaked up the rich musical culture he encountered and incorporated these influences into his own unique style, blending different genres to create a sound that was undeniably his own.

After a few years, Ferrer returned to France and began recording his original compositions. His debut single, “Pour oublier qu’on s’est aimé,” was released in 1963, and while it did not achieve commercial success, it laid the groundwork for what was to come.

It was in the late 1960s and early 1970s that Ferrer truly established himself as a prominent figure in the French music scene. His breakthrough hit, “Mirza,” released in 1966, propelled him to stardom. The infectious rhythm and witty lyrics of the song struck a chord with audiences, making it an instant success.

Ferrer’s subsequent albums showcased his versatility as an artist. From the soulful ballads of “Le Sud” to the upbeat energy of “Metropolitan,” his music resonated with people of all ages and backgrounds. His exceptional songwriting skills, coupled with his distinct voice, made him a beloved and enduring figure in the French music industry.

Despite his immense success as a musician, Ferrer remained true to his multifaceted nature. He never completely abandoned his initial pursuit of medicine. He once stated in an interview, “I am a singer, but first and foremost, I am a man who studied medicine.” Ferrer’s knowledge of medicine would shine through in his lyrics, often delving into philosophical and existential themes.

Nino Ferrer left an indelible mark on the music industry, both in France and beyond. His unconventional journey from medicine to music showcases his determination to follow his true passion, and his ability to seamlessly merge different artistic influences led to the creation of timeless songs that continue to captivate audiences today.

In 1998, at the age of 63, Nino Ferrer tragically took his own life, leaving behind a legacy that will forever be cherished. His music continues to be celebrated, reminding us of the remarkable journey of a man who dared to forge his own path and left an indelible mark on the world of music.