“Autumn Leaves”, with lyrics by the great French poet Jacques Prévert, was initially made famous by Yves Montand, but it has been covered many times over the years, being the most famous those by Nat King Cole, Miles Davis and Eric Clapton.ġ0) Jean Bretonnière – “Sous le ciel de Paris” (1951) It has been covered by several artists over the years, including a 1950 version by Louis Armstrong a cover version in 1977 by Grace Jones was also an international hit.ĩ) Yves Montand – “Les feuilles mortes” (1949) It has been recorded in many languages (“Beyond the sea” in English) and featured in numerous films. Right after its release, “La mer” became a massive hit, and has remained a chanson classic ever since. Marjane’s song (she’s now 104 years-old!) would become one of the best-loved songs of its time, as it captured the feelings of the many people who were experiencing wartime separation (the title means “Alone Tonight”). It has been covered many times -the most popular was Dalida’s– and has featured in several films. “I will wait” became the big French song during World War II (is actually a French version of the Italian song “ Tornerai“). This oh-so-Parisian song (means “Paris will always be Paris”) was recently recorded by Zaz. Parisian singer Fréhel, one of the most famous singers of the 30s -also known for her tormented personal life- sings this beautiful song, which was featured in the soundtrack of the film Amélie.Ĥ) Maurice Chevalier – “Paris sera toujours Paris” (1939)įrench actor, cabaret singer and entertainer, Maurice Chevalier was also a Hollywood star.
This was her fétiche song, which contained the famous lines: “I have two loves, my country and Paris”.ģ) Fréhel – “Si tu n’étais pas là” (1934) This beautiful song (means “Tell Me About Love”) gained wide recognition after featuring in the film Casablanca you may have also heard it in Woody Allen’s Midnight in Paris. It was also recorded by other French singers, maybe the best known is the cover by Dalida.Ģ) Josephine Baker – “J’ai deux amours” (1931)Īlthough American-born, Josephine Baker became best known in France. The list is divided by the year the songs were released:ġ) Lucienne Boyer “Parlez-moi d’amour” (1930)
Whether you need to practise your French, you want to (try to) understand French people’s personnalité, or you just love French music -like I do-, check out these 100 beautiful songs that are really representative of France’s rich culture and history. So, today I propose you to time travel to France! Music can touch our deep feelings, it can make us cry or smile, it empowers us… A melody can also transport us: by just listening to it, we can be right away elsewhere, or find ourselves in another time! Moreover, music helps us deepen into a country’s culture (so does cinema, or gastronomy).
100 Essential French songs you must hear – Part 6: The 2000s.100 Essential French songs you must hear – Part 5: The 1990s.100 Essential French songs you must hear – Part 4: The 1980s.100 Essential French songs you must hear – Part 3: The 1970s.100 Essential French songs you must hear – Part 2: The 1960s.
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