Popular French Songs Lyrics to Learn French

Image
Singer on stage © Photo by Antoine J. on Unsplash
Singer on stage © Photo by Antoine J. on Unsplash
Singer on stage © Photo by Antoine J. on Unsplash

Using French song lyrics as learning tools can be incredibly effective, whether they're from theme songs of famous French movies, French R&B, French world music, or even children's songs like "Alouette." It's a fantastic way to complement the 212 free interactive French language exercises with "Paroles de Clips" on the website "Learn French with TV5MONDE". 

 

Copyright for the main image of this article:
Singer on stage © Photo by Antoine J. on Unsplash

Using French song lyrics as learning tools can be incredibly effective, whether they're from theme songs of famous French movies, French R&B, French world music, or even children's songs like "Alouette." It's a fantastic way to complement the 212 free interactive French language exercises with "Paroles de Clips" on the website "Learn French with TV5MONDE". 

Today, let's dance and improve your French as we explore the poetic depths of iconic French songs.

 For those who wish to dive deeper, consider subscribing to TV5 Monde USA for even more enriching French language content.

1. "Ne me quitte pas" by Jacques Brel

Jacques Brel's heart-wrenching plea, "Ne me quitte pas" (Don't leave me), released in 1959, is a masterclass in conveying emotion through music. It is a beloved part of French musical heritage, often covered and referenced in various art forms. The emotional depth of the lyrics makes it perfect for learners to explore complex feelings and poetic language.

 

French Lyrics:


"Ne me quitte pas, il faut oublier, tout peut s'oublier qui s'enfuit déjà."


English Translation:


"Don't leave me, we must forget, everything can be forgotten that has already fled."

 

2. "La Vie en rose" by Edith Piaf

Édith Piaf's "La Vie en rose" paints life in rosy hues and expresses a joyful and optimistic outlook on love. Released in 1946, this song has become synonymous with French cultural identity, portraying the quintessential Parisian romance.

French Lyrics:


"Quand il me prend dans ses bras, il me parle tout bas, je vois la vie en rose."


English Translation:


"When he takes me in his arms, and speaks to me softly, I see life in rosy hues."

 

3. "Je t'aime... moi non plus" by Serge Gainsbourg and Jane Birkin

The controversial yet undeniably captivating duet "Je t'aime... moi non plus" features Serge Gainsbourg and Jane Birkin in a dialogue of love that transcends the mere physical, released in 1969. This song challenged societal norms and remains a landmark in French musical history for its boldness and lyrical intimacy.

French Lyrics:


"Je t'aime, je t'aime, oh oui je t'aime! Moi non plus. Oh mon amour..."


English Translation:


"I love you, I love you, oh yes I love you! Me neither. Oh my love..."

 

4. "Le Vent Nous Portera" by Noir Désir

"Le Vent Nous Portera" by Noir Désir, which translates to "The wind will carry us," is a poetic reflection on fate and the transient nature of life, released in 2001. It combines a rock sensibility with deeply poetic lyrics, making it a favorite among those looking to explore philosophical themes in French music.

French Lyrics:


"Le vent nous portera"


English Translation:


"The wind will carry us"

 

5. "Alors on danse" by Stromae

Stromae's 2009 hit, "Alors on danse," captures the essence of finding escape through dance amid life's challenges. It topped the charts across Europe, resonating with a wide audience thanks to its catchy beat and relatable lyrics.

French Lyrics:


"Alors on danse, alors on danse, alors on..."


English Translation:


"So we dance, so we dance, so we..."

 

6. "Papaoutai" by Stromae

Stromae’s powerful hit "Papaoutai," released in 2013, delves into the profound and often unspoken issues of paternal absence. The title itself is a play on the French phrase "Papa, où t'es?" which translates to "Dad, where are you?" This song combines a catchy rhythm with deeply personal and societal lyrics, making it a poignant commentary on the roles and expectations of fathers. Stromae uses his signature blend of dance music and thoughtful lyrics to challenge and address the gaps left by absent parents.

French Lyrics:


"Dites-moi où est ton papa?"


English Translation:


"Tell me, where is your dad?"

 

7. "Dernière danse" by Indila

"Dernière danse" by Indila is a lyrical journey through loneliness and resilience. Released in 2014, it combines Indila’s powerful vocals with evocative lyrics to create a moving narrative about overcoming personal despair.

French Lyrics:


"Oh ma douce souffrance, pourquoi s'acharner tu recommences."


English Translation:


"Oh my sweet suffering, why persist you begin again."

 

8. "Tous les mêmes" by Stromae

This 2013 hit by Stromae, "Tous les mêmes," critiques gender stereotypes with sharp wit and a catchy rhythm. Stromae uses his music to challenge societal norms and provoke thought.

French Lyrics:


"Vous les hommes êtes tous les mêmes, macho mais cheap."


English Translation:


"You men are all the same, macho but cheap."

For a deeper dive into the enigmatic lyrics explore our article Learn French from Music: Decoding the Enigmatic "Les Mêmes" in Stromae's Captivating Lyrics

 

9. "Tourner dans le vide" by Indila

"Tourner dans le vide," Indila’s poetic exploration of emotional turmoil and artistic expression, offers a rich lyrical landscape for French learners. The song achieved widespread acclaim in France and serves as an excellent example of contemporary French music's lyrical depth.

French Lyrics:


"Tourner dans le vide, vide, Tourner dans le vide, vide, Tourner dans le vide, il me fait tourner."


English Translation:


"Spinning in emptiness, emptiness, Spinning in emptiness, emptiness, Spinning in emptiness, he makes me spin."

For an in-depth analysis of "Tourner dans le vide," check out our feature article Understanding French Song Lyrics to Learn French: Analyzing Indila's "Tourner Dans Le Vide"

 

10. "Sous le vent" by Garou and Céline Dion

In "Sous le vent," Garou and Céline Dion sing about enduring love and resilience. Released in 2001, this romantic duet has touched the hearts of many with its melodious harmony and lyrical warmth.

French Lyrics:


"Et si tu crois que c'est fini, jamais. C'est juste une pause, un répit."


English Translation:


"And if you think it's over, never. It's just a break, a respite."

 

Each song listed offers a unique window into the French soul, allowing learners to immerse deeply into the poetic and rich world of French language and culture. For those keen to expand their understanding, consider exploring more of the 212 free interactive French language exercises with "Paroles de Clips" on the website "Learn French with TV5MONDE". 



Here are some questions we received from our TV5 Monde USA audience and answers:

1. What is the one French song?

There isn't "one" French song that epitomizes the entire French music scene, as France has a rich and diverse musical heritage spanning many genres and decades. However, one of the most iconic and internationally recognized French songs is "La Vie en rose" by Édith Piaf. Since its release in 1946, it has come to symbolize French musical artistry and the romantic image of Paris worldwide.

2. What kind of music is famous in France?

France is known for its wide variety of musical styles. Historically, the chanson française, a lyrical driven French song style, has been very popular. Other genres that have enjoyed significant popularity include French pop, known as "Chanson Populaire," electronic music with pioneers like Daft Punk, and hip hop, which has become increasingly influential since the 1990s. French rock and the newer electropop scenes also hold significant places in the contemporary French music landscape.

3. What is French pop music called?

French pop music is often referred to as "Chanson Française" or simply "French pop." This genre includes a broad range of pop styles that are distinctly French, characterized by their use of the French language, and often incorporating elements of traditional French chanson. Over the decades, French pop has evolved, blending with other styles and reflecting global influences, yet it maintains a unique identity that resonates both in France and internationally.