The Paris-based singer Caroline Nin listens to those drawn to sing the music of the legendary French performer, born 100 years ago this week in the working class Parisian district of Belleville.
Edith Piaf's influence on French popular song and, more widely, on French and European culture has barely waned since she first found fame and, to this day, her legend lives on - in the myths that surround her life and in the songs that people still sing.
Caroline Nin is intimate with Piaf, through her own show based on the singer's legacy. For this anniversary programme, she meets some of those - including employees at the French National Library, a Japanese tribute singer, visitors to Piaf's grave in Père Lachaise Cemetery and a former prostitute who worked the bars of Pigalle - who can't resist singing Piaf ... with no regrets.
Produced by Catherine Guilyardi and Alan Hall
First broadcast 17th December 2015, BBC Radio 4
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