Not your typical French music
I’m sure you’re aware of Edith Piaf’s La Vie en Rose, probably La Mer from Charles Trenet and likely Serge Gainsbourg’s famous Bonnie & Clyde. These are the classic songs that have crossed over French borders into our own speakers. Being a pretty well-versed music person, I thought I had a decent handle on international hit music, but since living in France, I’ve been exposed to some real gems that I had no idea existed.
I discovered many of these tunes at parties or clubs where everyone in the room knew all the lyrics while I’m scratching my head wondering “what the hell is this song?” So I’m digging into the crates here to share some my favorite obscure 80s songs with you. If you’re not feeling the music, at the very least you’ll get a kick out of the rad fashion, wild sets and interesting dance moves. PROFITEZ (enjoy)!
Les Rita Mitsouko - Marcia Baïla
I love everything about this song and video. It’s SO 80s. And SO French! Those were the days of classic music videos when all you needed was a simple soundstage along with some random props, costumes and dancers (and a rocking cowbell). OOOWAH-OOWAH!
Richard Gotainer - Le Youki
Maybe one of the strangest videos ever but includes everything that makes for a great 80s music video - odd choreography, wild 80s sets and super weird dog costumes. I would have totally rocked one of those poodle outfits in my former “sexy halloween costume” days.
Niagara - L’amour a la plage
A must-play if you’re headed to the beach! AH-OO-CHA CHA CHA
Desireless - Voyage Voyage
This is the perfect pre-vacation song to get you in the mood.
Les Rita Mitsouko - Andy
Another classic from the formidable group. This is one of those songs at French parties that everyone knows every word. “Dis-moi OUI, ANDY” It’s SO FUN!
Plastic Bertrand - Ça Plane Pour Moi
Pre-80s new wave verging on pop punk, this song is pure raw energy and oh so catchy. It’s actually been featured in a bunch of films and TV shows so it may sound familiar.
Lio - Banana Split
One the silliest songs from the list but totally one of my favorites. Lio is actually Belgian and was 16 at the time this was released. If you can’t already guess, it has obvious sexual undertones. But she’s so damn cute in her innocent 80s pink jumpsuit and awkward not-so-sexy dance moves. Bah-nah-nah-nah, bah-nah-nah.
