The French have always had a sophisticated air about themselves. Their pop music truly resembles their au courant attitude. I've included a few (modern-ish) French pop artists that are worth checking out even if you aren't planning a lavish trip to Paris anytime soon.
1. Garra - Tahiti 80
Founded in 1999, this French pop band from Rouen knows how to pen irresistibly catchy tunes. With six consistently solid albums under their belt, Tahiti 80 has no signs of waning. Check out the single Garra, and then backtrack their entire catalog.
2. Time of the Assassins - Charlotte Gainsbourg
Film star and singer/songwriter Charlotte Gainsbourg has won the French pop genetic lottery. Her dad was Serge Gainsbourg, one of the most important French pop figures. Having worked with the musical likes of Air and Beck, Gainsbourg knows how to use her breathy voice to evoke soul-searching contemplation.
3. Too Young - Phoenix
By now, most Americans are familiar with the Versailles band Phoenix. Perhaps the fact that the group is named after an American city certainly doesn't hurt. (It also doesn't hurt when your lifetime partner is Sofia Coppola). Listen to their 2000 single 'Too Young' which would later become featured on the 'Lost in Translation' soundtrack.
Go ahead and create your very own French pop playlist while you munch on some macarons. :::Bon appetite:::
See also: Music Discovery Mondays - Brit Pop Edition
Photo credit: Rock Made in France
Macarons French Made
