A living legend of French rock, Louis Bertignac made his mark across generations with the band Téléphone before pursuing a rich and singular solo career. A guitarist, singer, songwriter and producer, he will come in September 2025 for a special concert in the San Francisco Bay Area, produced by French Talent USA. The artist will also tour in New York and Los Angeles. MerciSF had the pleasure of interviewing him ahead of his visit.
What still drives you, after all these years, to step on stage with the same energy?
It’s what brings me the greatest pleasure in my life. Playing music with my bandmates, in front of people, is pure joy every time. Since 
the beginning, I’ve chased one thing: the pursuit of pleasure. Even when I was a student hesitating between medicine and music, I chose what made me feel alive.
Even today, I do 60, 80, sometimes 100 shows a year, because it’s what I love most.
That pursuit of pleasure also guides my personal life. This year, I decided to travel with my family. My son will follow his classes remotely, and we’re going to discover Tahiti, India, and Nepal. It’s another way to fully enjoy life, open ourselves to the world, and share those experiences together.
You’ll be performing soon in the San Francisco Bay Area. What does this return to the United States mean to you?
I’ve long had a soft spot for the U.S. I first came when I was 18 and almost stayed! Coming back is always a pleasure. And I’ll play the same set as in France, without translation: my solo songs and, of course, Téléphone classics. And maybe a surprise: I’ve recorded an English-language album, still unreleased, and I might let the San Francisco audience hear a few excerpts.
How do you approach Téléphone songs today versus your more recent tracks?
For me, nothing changes. Whether it’s an old song or a recent one, I grab a guitar and play with my buddies. I often start my shows with tracks from my latest album, then dip into my solo catalogue, and finish with Téléphone classics.
Are there songs from your solo career you especially love to share on stage?
Yes, of course. Essentials like Ces idées-là, Vas-y guitare, ballads, more rock-oriented tracks… After all these years, I’m spoiled for choice!
You’ve also worked as a producer, notably for Carla Bruni. What draws you to that role?
Producing is a different job from the stage, but I love it too. I was lucky to work with top producers back in the Téléphone days, like Glyn Johns and Bob Ezrin. Their calm and command impressed me. When I had the chance to wear that hat myself, I was thrilled. I really enjoyed it, and I still produce today—including for my own work.
What are your main sources of inspiration these days?
My influences are mostly the “old guard”: the Beatles, the Stones, Hendrix, Otis Redding. They taught me everything. Of course, I also listen to current acts like Blackberry Smoke or Blake Shelton, but it’s different. My son listens to a lot of rap, and even though I try, it rarely wins me over… except for a few artists like MC Solaar or Eminem.
What message would you share with young musicians who see you as a model?
It isn’t something you pass on with words. You learn mainly by listening to and watching other musicians. I learned from the Beatles and the Stones without them having to tell me what to do. The only real advice I can give is: “keep going.” Those who truly love music are the ones who go the farthest.
A word for the San Francisco audience?
Come out in numbers! I like playing in packed rooms, not empty ones (laughs). And if you can bring a few American friends, even better. I’d love to win over francophiles and English speakers too.
Date: September 24, 2025
Address: Guild Theatre, Menlo Park
Tickets here
