Nouvelle Chanson

Nouvelle Chanson (, meaning "New Song"), derived from the French expression nouvelle scène française, sometimes anglicized as New Chanson, is a musical genre of Chanson which emerged in France in the

Characteristics#

Nouvelle Chanson, whilst influenced by the forefathers of French Chanson (cited above) has developed through modern influences such as rock and electronica. There is a tendency for theatricality and the adoption of personas, alongside intensely poetic lyrics incorporating surreal and metaphorical elements. Wry, intelligent humour is also often prevalent. However the defining characteristic of Chanson, both old and new, is that it focuses on the French language as vehicle and instrument. There is an emphasis on craftsmanship with many of the artists classically trained and/or having studied music academically (cf. Benjamin Biolay studied at the National Conservatoire, Lyon, Emilie Simon studied musicology at the University of Montpellier, and Ana Silvera has performed with the English National Opera and at the Royal Opera House) giving an intellectual aspect that sets this style of music apart from other genres such as pop, rock and ‘anti-folk’.

Subgenres#

Nouvelle Chanson artists can be divided into the following genres: ;Trip-Hop/Electronica influences: Emilie Simon and Francoiz Breut belong in this group, and Camille, though she uses few electronic effects. ;Updated Traditional Chanson: The second group seek to refine traditional Chanson, usually accompanied by a solo guitar or piano. This includes Anais (Croze) and Pauline Croze ;Bossa Nova and Samba influenced musicians include: Olivia Ruiz, Coralie Clement, Benjamin Biolay, Emily Loizeau, and Les Blaireux. ;Nouvelle Vague :Artists such as Cibelle and Amel Bent are examples of the chanson form with Latin and/or African influences. :Keren Ann, Vanessa Paradis, and Les Blaireaux represent the chanson form mediated through pop/rock sensibilities.

Literary and artistic influences#

Nouvelle Chanson takes its inspiration artistically from Dada and Surrealism. Lyrically, inspiration is also drawn from fairy tales, contemporary poetry, and magical realist literature. It is also theatrical, and draws on the adoption of various personas.

External links#

Region: France