In pictures: The life of Sacha Distel

1 of 8 Renowned French singer Sacha Distel has died at the age of 71 after a long illness.

2 of 8 Starting out as jazz guitarist, his first hit single was Scoubidou in 1958. His only UK hit Raindrops Keep Falling On My Head hit the top 10 in 1970.

3 of 8 During his early days in the music business he gained a reputation as a ladies' man. Here he is seen dancing with singer Laura Villa in a club in her native Brazil in 1962.

4 of 8 Charles Aznavour and Sacha Distel were two of France's greatest musical exports to the world.

5 of 8 His heart-throb looks launched him into a television and film career in France and the US.

6 of 8 Distel had a high-profile relationship with French actress Brigitte Bardot in 1958...

7 of 8 ...with fans and the media following their every move.

8 of 8 Distel joined the cast of sexy West End musical Chicago in 2000, playing the part of smooth-talking lawyer Billy Flynn.