Stromae (real name Paul Van Haver) was born on March 12, 1985 in Brussels, Belgium. At 12, he learnt music & drums at Jette's Musical Academy. In 2000, he chose the name Opmaestro & later, Stromae. At 18, he founded the hip-hop band Suspicion. Later, he performed in festivals.
In 2008, Stromae signed to Kilomaître Music & composed Mélissa M.'s song "Cette Fois". In 2009, he signed to Mercury & the following year, his single "Alors On Danse" has been N°1 in France, Germany, Belgium & Switzerland. His first album Cheese came out on June 21, 2010. On February 9, 2011, Stromae received a Victoire de la Musique for "Electronic Album".