Like many other European countries outside of the UK, France has always struggled with it’s own musical identity. In the second half of the 20th century, the music scene in France ended up mimicking the sounds of popular American and British artists. Starting in the 1980’s, France saw an influx of new and distinctive rock bands like Telephone and later Pigalle that carved out the path for a new breed of artists that were uniquely French in attitude and sound. During the explosion of “French Touch” in the early 1990s, electro and house artists like Daft Punk and Air invaded the world’s dance floors, bringing attention to the overlooked Country.
Primarily due to the language barrier, many French artists have trailed behind their American and Britain counterparts in both sales and reach. In order to reach a wider audience many French rock bands are abandoning their native language in order to reach the English-speaking music market. While many French nationals hold disdain for this trend, it’s the lure of gaining international exposure and tapping a larger fan base.
Adding to the identity issues plaguing French bands is the French radio quota system, which states that 40 percent of tracks played on the radio must be sung in French. Originating in the 1990s, these new requirements were a form of affirmative action meant to preserve a sense of musical nationalism and help offset what was deemed the unfair advantage of the marketing machine of the English-speaking market. This leaves French artists struggling with the difficult decision of targeting a larger audience or taking advantage of the enacted quota requirements. In an attempt to take advantage of both outlets, rather than limiting themselves to one specific language, some French artists have opted to release discs that incorporate both French and English sometimes going so far as releasing singles in both languages. While the French music scene has always faced difficulties expanding their reach, in the last 10 years French and French-speaking artists have gained in popularity worldwide.
For those interested in discovering the next great French band, grab the latest issue of the Pariscope weekly and check the listings to see what bands are playing around town. If none of the listings strikes a chord, simply venture up to the 11th arrondissement with it’s plethora of hip boutiques, local restaurants and dive bars. Staring on Rue Oberkampf, venture into the popular Café Charbon (109 Rue Oberkampf) as well the club’s discreet basement venue Nouveau Casino, which is known for featuring some of the most edgy bands France has to offer. However, the entrance is hidden and only reachable through an unmarked door at the back of the Charbon. Le Pop In (105 Rue Amelot) is a popular dance club among locals, complete with cheap booze, great DJs, and no entrance fee. There are also a number of other up and coming clubs in the immediate area that cater to the trendy French hipsters. Simply wander a few blocks along Rue Oberkampf, Ru
e St. Maur, and Rue Jean-Pierre Timbaud and on the right night you might just discover the next great French indie-rock band.
Some of the more interesting bands to hit the music scene of late:
Phoenix - Hailing from the Parisian suburb of Versailles towards the end of the 90’s, Phoenix gained notoriety while performing as a backing band for the hugely popular band Air’s “Kelly Watch the Stars” single. They quickly followed with the album “United,” which became an underground hit. Their latest album “It’s Never Been Like That” has all the makings for refined, slick French indie-rock. According to Stylus magazine, “Phoenix have shown us once again that much of the best “American” radio-friendly pop music is being made in places where the Euro, soccer, and litre rule over the dollar, football, and gallon.” Definitely a band to catch if they’ve got any local shows lined-up.
The Prototypes - The Prototypes are a fun and energy-driven electro-pop band from Paris. Singing exclusively in French, the band produces a collage of genre-blending sound incorporating indie-rock, electro-pop and classic R&B all with a with a fun “punky” edge! Their song “”Je ne te connais pas” sounds like an over-driven 1960’s beach party. This band is planning a North American tour in 2007, but if you happen to be in Paris when they are on a hiatus, definitely check these guys out!
A.S Dragon - Something like a hybrid of early New Wave Blondie and Glam-era Bowie, and 1960 soul, A.S Dragon has gained a world-wide following for their catchy pop songs and energetic lives shows. Fronted by Natacha Le Jeune who sings in both French and English, this is definitely a band to keep your eye on.
Air - By now most of Generation X knows of this aptly named band called Air. This French-based electro-pop duo has long been fixture in both France and the world. With lustrous, dreamy song arrangements characterized by the use of Vocoder, Fender Rhodes and Moog synthesizers, Air has attracted fans director Sofia Coppola (who used the bands music in 3 of her films) with breezy, melodic pop that incorporates the best of trip-hop, and electro. This is a hard band to see at a small venue, but definitely keep your eyes open for a sighting.
Camille
About the author: C. Jason is a contributing writer for Welcome2France a Paris Apartment Rental service. © 2007 All rights reserved.
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