French Music

French music is many people’s first dive into French culture. It definitely was one of mine. I remember sitting in my room one day, bored, wishing I could find something fun to do. I decided to hop on YouTube and a French singer popped on my feed. I ended up clicking on the video just to find out that it was the most wonderful song my young ears had heard. This song is one that everyone knows, even if not by the name, but the melody. Now that’s enough suspense. The song is “La vie en rose” by Edith Piaf. In the moment I felt like I found some hidden treasure and I was so impressed by Piaf’s voice and the lyrics I must have replayed the song ten times. This experience has led me to this moment right now !

Some notable French singers today are Stromae, Indila, Aya Nakamura, Videoclub, and Angèle. While not all of these singers originally come from France they have made a name for themselves among the French community. Today you will see Angèle in Ads for Chanel not only in France but globally. The songs I recommend most by these artists are “Love Story” by Indila and “Ta Reine” By Angèle. I find these two songs to be my absolute favorites within all the music I have found from French speaking countries. I would definitely recommend all the other artists listed above as they are extremely talented but these two songs are just so stunning and both of these singers have the most angelic voices. 

During my time in France I have found it to be helpful to listen to music in French as I have been using it as a learning tool. I use music as a form of oral comprehension. After the first listen I will look up any words I didn’t know. After my second listen I will try and understand the story behind the song and then finally I’ll look at the lyrics. I have also found that listening to music in French really helps me focus in the morning. I re-center my brain and I’m ready to use "my French thinking brain.” It can be a little hard to switch back and forth between French and your native language and often it can throw you off while you are in France. What I have found to help is resetting with a song or two in French and you should be ready to go. Trust me it works. But I know what you’re saying, “but I don’t even know where to start? Or if I’ll even like the music.”

The culture of French music is so fascinating in the way that there is so much diversity in their music not only today but throughout history. If you are taking your first dive into French culture you cannot go wrong with whatever path you take. You could go take a path that is heavily influenced by Celtic culture, or something simple like French pop. Other genres like metal or reggae are also great ways to find what type of music you are looking for. All together there is something for everyone and listening to French music is a great first step into immersing yourself into French culture. I one hundred percent recommend adding some French music to your playlist… ASAP!

Alice Swartvagher

Siena College

CIEE-Rennes Liberal Arts Fall 2025