Thomas Bangalter
Thomas Bangalter, born on January 3, 1975, in Paris, France, is a renowned French musician, DJ, record producer, singer-songwriter, composer, director, and actor. He is best known as one half of the iconic French house music duo Daft Punk, alongside Guy-Manuel de Homem-Christo. Bangalter's musical journey began at a young age, influenced by his father, Daniel Vangarde, a French disco producer. He started playing the piano at the age of six, with lessons from a Paris Opera music staff member.
In 1987, Bangalter met de Homem-Christo at Lycée Carnot, and together with Laurent Brancowitz, they formed an indie rock band called Darlin'. A negative review of their music inspired the name Daft Punk, which Bangalter and de Homem-Christo adopted as they transitioned into electronic music. Daft Punk's first single, "The New Wave," was released in 1993, leading to a successful career that included the acclaimed album "Random Access Memories."
Aside from Daft Punk, Bangalter pursued solo projects and collaborations. He was part of the group Stardust, releasing the hit "Music Sounds Better With You," and produced music under his own label, Roulé. He is credited with contributing to the development of "filtered house" music. Bangalter also worked with artists like Pharrell Williams and The Weeknd, and composed soundtracks for films such as "Irréversible" and the ballet "Mythologies."
Bangalter is married to French actress Élodie Bouchez, with whom he has two sons. Known for valuing his privacy, he has largely stepped back from public performances due to hearing issues but continues to influence the music industry through his innovative work.