'Square Maurane' inaugurated in Schaerbeek

A square in Schaerbeek has been named in honour of the late Belgian singer Maurane on the first anniversary of her death.

Square Maurane is located on the corner of Rue Jacques Rayé, where the singer lived for more than 20 years.

Maurane, who was 57, was found dead in her home in May 2018 just days after making a concert comeback.

She began her career singing on the streets and in Brussels cafes and had released 10 albums, performing with the likes of Celine Dion and Johnny Hallyday.

She was forced to take a break in 2016 because of problems with her vocal cords - and had returned to the stage a few days before her death in a Jacques Brel tribute concert, performing a duet with young singer-songwriter Typh Barrow.

At the time her death was announced, prime minister Charles Michel described Maurane as "a committed artist, an outstanding singer, an inspiring voice and an endearing personality".

Photo: Benoit Toussaint/Belga