Jewish French singer and composer Georges Moustaki, who sang in several languages and whose romantic ballads won him global fame, died on Thursday at the age of 79, his entourage said, according to the AFP news agency.

Born on May 3, 1934 to an immigrant European Jewish couple who had settled in Egypt, Moustaki — whose real name was Giuseppe Mustacchi — penned some 300 songs including the 1958 hit “Milord” sung by Edith Piaf which created a worldwide sensation.

Moustaki changed his name in honor of his idol, French singer Georges Brassens, after he moved to Paris in 1951. His repertoire included songs in French, Italian, English, Greek, Portuguese, Arabic and Spanish.

Leading French stars sang his compositions including Yves Montand, Barbara, Juliette Greco and Pia Colomba.