Gabriel Yacoub, co-founder of the iconic French folk group Malicorne, passed away peacefully on January 22, 2025, at the age of 72. His death, confirmed by both his manager and Marie Sauvet, his former companion and collaborator, marked the end of an extraordinary era for French folk music. Just weeks shy of his 73rd birthday, Yacoub's legacy remains indelibly marked on the hearts of fans and fellow musicians alike.
Born on February 4, 1952, Gabriel Yacoub had deep roots connecting him to the rich musical traditions of Brittany. He rose to prominence as both a singer and multi-instrumentalist, becoming one of the foremost figures who successfully modernized folk traditions through innovative soundscapes. Forming Malicorne in 1973 with Sauvet, alongside musicians Laurent Vercambre and Hughes de Courson, Yacoub's vision was to breathe new lifeworthiness Africa folk music, contributing new lyrical and musical directions.
Before launching Malicorne, Yacoub and Sauvet experimented with the album Pierre de Grenoble which introduced rich traditional French music alongside progressive styles. The album became instrumental for the revival of French traditional music as it set the stage for what was to come.
Malicorne initially burst onto the scene at a time when folk music was experiencing substantial revival thanks to artists like Bob Dylan. The group distinguished itself by reinterpreting traditional songs through the lens of contemporary sound. By mixing modern technology with rare or traditional instruments—cromorns, bagpipes, hurdy-gurdies, harmoniums, and mandoloncelles—Yacoub and his bandmates created melodic pieces infused with vitality and nostalgia.
The band's success continued throughout the 1970s with several albums, including their critically acclaimed Almanach released in 1976, which became one of their hallmark records. By the 1980s, the band went through several line-up changes, yet they managed to consolidate their original formation for memorable performances, such as their celebrated return to stage during the 2010 Francofolies de La Rochelle.
Yacoub also carved out time for his solo career, creating music distinct from his work with Malicorne. Notably, his poignant song La colombe poignardée was featured prominently in Jacques Perrin's successful documentary Le Peuple migrateur. His forays often delved deep, exploring themes of love, nature, and spirituality intertwined within the magic of folk traditions.
Despite his passing, Yacoub's music will resonate with many. Marie Sauvet's heartfelt tribute on Facebook emphasized the depth of their partnership: "His music will always remain." Others echoed similar sentiments with many musicians and fans extending their condolences and memories of the impact Yacoub had on their own musical journeys.
Fellow Breton artists like Alan Stivell, with whom Yacoub collaborated early on, recognized their shared history, recalling poignant memories of performances as well as the artistic journeys they undertook—together and separately. Stivell once again positioned Yacoub as the heart of the folk music renaissance during their times at iconic venues.
Cécile Corbel also reflected on how Yacoub's work was central to her inspiration as she shared the emotional weight of losing such a revered figure. Many younger artists credited him as instrumental to their own paths, noting how his songs had shaped their artistic expressions and aspirations.
Across social media, numerous tributes have poured out from contemporary folk artists honoring Yacoub's legacy—highlighting the extraordinary influence he had over generations of musicians. His blending of modern rock influences with the deeply rooted traditions of French folk created timeless music, indicative of both artistic sensitivity and intellectual richness.
Yacoub's last public performance with Malicorne was at the festival du Chant de marin, held at Paimpol (Côtes-d'Armor) back in August 2017, where he and the band bid farewell to their fans after more than four decades of contributions to music. The closure of this chapter left many reflecting on the beautiful memories built through their music.
His work remains influential even now, bridging cultural divides and connecting fans through the universal language of music. With the passing of Gabriel Yacoub, the French music scene has lost not just a musician but also a poetic voice who breathed new life and vibrancy to the traditional forms—creating songs of cultural depth and emotional resonance.
While Malicorne's last chord has been struck, Gabriel Yacoub’s spirit and songs will undoubtedly continue to inspire countless artists, musicians, and fans around the world. His sound carries with it the narratives of traditions honored and genres transcended, ensuring he will not be forgotten.