French Music Around The World

 The most iconic French artists

OK, so you might think that the United States has been home to some of the world's greatest artists, that it's the country that has influenced the world's music the most, and we all have names in mind. But today, I'm going to prove you wrong, and show you that French music could also lay claim to the title of greatest country in music, by naming the greatest French musicians who have influenced the world for centuries with their artistic genius.

Classical music :

Claude Debussy revolutionised harmony long before jazz or American rock. ‘Clair de lune’ and “La Mer” influenced generations of composers and even bands like the Beatles and Radiohead. Maurice Ravel, with his ‘Bolero’, created one of the world's most recognisable pieces, even inspiring Hollywood arrangements. As for Berlioz, his ‘Symphonie fantastique’ inaugurated programme music, which the Americans simply recycled decades later.

Best of French Classical Music

French chanson :

Édith Piaf conquered the world with ‘La Vie en rose’, transcending language barriers long before the age of globalisation. Charles Aznavour, with 1,000 songs and 180 million records sold, far surpasses the longevity of any American star. And Gainsbourg? He was a provocateur before Madonna or Lady Gaga made provocation commercial.

Charles Aznavour - Emmenez-moi

Electronic music :

Detroit may have invented techno, but it was Daft Punk who truly globalised it. ‘Get Lucky’ and “Around the World” have become universal anthems without sacrificing their French originality. Jean-Michel Jarre was already filling entire squares with his grandiose shows when America was just discovering synthesizers.

- Daft Punk -

Jazz and World Music :

Django Reinhardt reinvented jazz with just two working fingers, creating a style so distinctive that American musicians came to France to study it. Michel Petrucciani, despite his handicap, became one of the most acclaimed pianists in the world, proving that French jazz could rival the best of America.

Contemporary music :

Air defined the sonic aesthetic of an entire era with ‘Moon Safari’, influencing music, film and advertising worldwide. Phoenix conquered America on its own turf, winning a Grammy and dominating American festivals, demonstrating that French pop can triumph even in the heart of the American music empire.

Conclusion :

If America industrialised music, it was France that gave it its soul. From classical impressionism to modern electro, French musicians have systematically pushed back the boundaries of art. The next time you listen to a global hit, ask yourself how much of its musical DNA contains French genius...

If you want to read more about : Victor Wembanyama