Rene was the only man I had ever kissed, the only man I had ever truly loved. Our love story began when I was only 12 years old and he was 38. There was a 26 year age difference between us, but from the moment we met, something deep and undeniable bound us together.
In 1981, when I was just starting to dream of a career in music, René first heard one of my demo recordings. He was so moved by what he heard that he made the selfless decision to mortgage his house to finance my first album.
We didn’t know at the time that this gesture would become the foundation of my career, long before I reached the $500 million fortune I have today.
Our relationship, both personal and professional, lasted 21 wonderful years. Together we had three children. Rene was the only man with whom I had a romantic and intimate relationship.
He was my partner in every sense of the word – supporting, loving and guiding me through all of life’s and career ups and downs.
Rene passed away in January 2016 after a courageous battle with cancer. After his death, I never looked for another love. I still love him deeply.
I carry him with me every day, finding love in my children, fans, and people who stand by my side. But as far as romantic love goes, he will always be the one I cherish the most.
When I fall asleep, I imagine him next to me.
Even on stage, I feel his presence beside me – guiding me, supporting me, as he always did. In a way, I am still married to him, bound by the love we shared and the life we built together. It is a love that transcends time and death, and I will always carry it in my heart.
