It is with deep regret and profound sadness that we inform you of the passing of Gérard Pelletier, one of our most beloved artists and founder of the French synthpop duo known as Deux. Gérard was born on January 15th, 1952 and passed away on January 1st, 2013 at 8:30 in the morning, quietly and without suffering, in his home in Cannes.

When asked about Deux several years ago, Gérard recalled, “I was in Germany when I heard Kraftwerk for the first time. It was a revelation for me… and I thought “I want to make electronic music” ! A month later, I took the train to Strasbourg with the intention of buying a synthesizer and I found my first electronic machine, a Kawai made of metal and wood. It was a sound research machine, not very easy to use but I found it very powerful to create my own sounds. I began to sing with other friends of mine every Saturday night and so started the beginning of what would become Deux. In 1979, I decided to leave Germany and return to France. I found a work place in Lyon (the 2nd largest city in France). I was also working on my music every weekend but I was alone. Then one day, I met Cati and I spoke with that magical girl about music the entire night. Deux was born”

May his spirit live on through the beautiful music he created with Cati Tête. Rest in peace Gérard Pelletier (1952-2013), you will never be forgotten.

Listen to the special Minimal Wave show on East Village Radio, archived from January 6th, 2013. http://www.eastvillageradio.com/shows/player/main.php?p=1280&f=1280-45887-20130106

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