Chanson française—a distinct musical genre that directly translates to “French Song”—is the paragon of poetic art.

In fact, this form of music dates back to the 12th century and continues to transform over the years. Notably, an article by MasterClass gives a brief history of chanson music. It reads like this:

Medieval chanson: Music took on two forms—the chanson de geste (celebrated legendary heroes and noble deeds) and chanson courtoise (romantic music).

Early Renaissance chanson: During this time, there were three prominent forms of poetic french music—known as formes fixes. These included the rondeau, ballade, and virelai.

High Renaissance chanson: This was when composers such as Clément Janequin, Pierre Certon, Philippe Verdelot, and Claudin de Sermisy developed the Parisian chanson—a more open-ended compositional style of music.

Baroque chanson: Baroque music originated in Italy and tended to have religious themes.

Chanson réaliste: Commonly performed by female singers, this style of music was popular during World War II.

Nouvelle chanson: Mixes nineteenth-century chanson techniques and pop music.

French music is enriched with sophistication and melodic language. And while this timeline of Chanson française may seem a bit muddy or confusing, the central theme is that music is about pleasure. And while it’s helpful to understand its historical significance, all that really matters is that you feel good (or any type of emotion, rather) while listening to it.

Photo Retrieved from Britannica “Édith Piaf”

Now that we’ve gotten the basics out of the way, let’s discuss some notable Chanson Music artists—from the past and present.

The quintessential blueprint for Chanson française is: Édith Piaf. And if this name doesn’t strike a chord, perhaps her song “La Vie en Rose” does. Written in 1945, this song has played in familiar films such as The Bucket List and Wall-E. Yet, it was in Lady Gaga’s A Star is Born that I remember hearing this song for the first time—where I was inspired to listen to Piaf’s version on Spotify on repeat.

Piaf’s music is coated with love, loss and sorrow. An influential figure in the music industry, Piaf inspired famous musicians such as Marianne Faithfull to Anna Calvi, and Elton John.

Music really does have the power to alter the vibe of a room. There’s a reason why coffeehouses play indie songs, jazz clubs play jazz, nightclubs blast EDM, honky tonks play country, and libraries have no music at all. Music sets the tone for a place—and it just so happens that vinyl shops or that little french bakery on the corner can feel just that much classier, with the right music of course.

Let’s not forget about French singer-songwriter and actress, Françoise Hardy. Even after her death at the age of 80, this musical icon continues to have over 3 million monthly listeners on Spotify. Songs such as “Le temps de l’amour” and “Tous les garçons et les filles” are the top picks among listeners.

Photo Retrieved from Vogue “Françoise Hardy”

Some more classic singers that may spark your interest are Brigitte Bardot, Yvves Montand, Jane Birkin, Juliette Gréco and Jaques Brel.

If you’re on social media, I’m sure you’ve noticed an uprising in French TikTok sounds. Whether you know French or not, you may have found yourself singing along to songs such as “Paro” by Nej’ and “Bad Boy” by Marwa Loud. But, it’s Indila who's taking the cake in the current Chanson française. With songs such as “Love Story,” “Dernière danse” and “Tourner dans le vide,” Indila is the face to many popular TikTok French songs—and I’m sure you’ve heard at least one.

While many current French songs tend to have a pop-esque vibe, Pomme is an artist who brings back the old-school feel. With songs like “Ceux qui rêvent” and “Soleil soleil,” Pomme marries the genres of folk and rock.

Some more artists include Serge Lama, Coeur de Pirate and Pascal Obispo who all use poetic lyrics to tell a story—much like many of the old-school French singers who sing to express the nuances of love and heartbreak. So, if you’re interested in broadening your music taste, these artists are worth listening to.

While trends come and go, music is timeless. Whether Chanson française has always been your thing—or if you’re just getting into it, this is an elegant style of music that really does take you back to the golden days.

Written by Brya Sheridan, Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine
Tearsheets by Georgia Wallace, Graphic Design Intern, PhotoBook Magazine

These Current Old-School French Singers will Transport You Back in Time