Catherine Ringer

Catherine Ringer is a French singer-songwriter, composer and actress whose career crosses experimental theater and music. Born in Suresnes, France, on October 18, 1957, she began professional stage work in 1975 and performed as a singer and actress in experimental musical theater through 1978. Her early career also included dance and film, and during the late 1970s and early 1980s she appeared in adult productions under her own name and several aliases, including the 1982 film Mélodie pour Manuella. She later discussed that chapter publicly after becoming a mainstream music star.

In 1979, Ringer met Fred Chichin, and together they formed Les Rita Mitsouko, with Ringer as co-founder and lead voice. Their partnership lasted nearly three decades and produced a catalog at the intersection of French pop, rock, funk and experimental music. The 1984 single Marcia Baïla became a breakthrough hit for the group and was inspired by the dancer and mentor Marcia Moretto.

After Chichin died in 2007, Ringer continued composing, recording and touring under her own name. She released the solo album Ring n' Roll in 2011, her first solo studio album after the Les Rita Mitsouko era. She has remained active across music, film and television projects, and her career has also been associated with Paris. Her work is known for experimental theater and music, early adult-film appearances and a solo career.