‎Richard Clayderman on Apple Music

French pianist Richard Clayderman (born Phillipe Pagès) is said to have recorded more than 1,200 tunes in his “New Romantic” easy-listening style. Called “the most successful pianist in the world” by the Guinness Book of World Records, he’s sold more than 90 million records globally.

• After starting at the Conservatoire de Paris when he was 12, Clayderman seemed headed for a promising classical career. But he turned his focus to popular music and started a rock band with friends when he was a teen.
• Clayderman was working as an accompanist and session musician in 1976 when he auditioned to record the tune “Ballade pour Adeline,” written by French music producer Paul de Senneville for his baby daughter. The song was a huge international success, selling more than 22 million copies across 38 countries.
• In 1985, Clayderman was dubbed the “Prince of Romance” by First Lady Nancy Reagan.
• His catalog comprises originals, standards, and music from movies—everything from Italian composer Ennio Morricone scores to Harry Potter. He’s released dozens of albums since his self-titled 1977 debut.