Discover French music through its greatest classics

If you’re curious about French music but don’t know where to begin, the best place to start is with the classics. These are the songs that shaped generations, that are still played at family dinners, on the radio, and in films. They carry emotion, storytelling, and a very distinct French sensibility.

Instead of giving you a long history lesson, here’s something more enjoyable: a playlist. Ten essential songs that offer a real taste of French culture through music.

The essential French classics

These songs are part of France’s musical DNA. Even if you don’t understand every lyric, you’ll feel the emotion behind them.

• La vie en rose - Édith Piaf
  
• Ne me quitte pas - Jacques Brel
  
• La bohème - Charles Aznavour
  
• Je t’aime… moi non plus - Serge Gainsbourg
  
• Avec le temps - Léo Ferré
  
• Amsterdam - Jacques Brel
  
• Le métèque - Georges Moustaki
  
• Comme d’habitude - Claude François
  
• L’hymne à l’amour - Édith Piaf
  
• La chanson des vieux amants - Jacques Brel
  

Why start with these songs?

French music has always placed emotion and storytelling at its center. These classics talk about love, longing, passion, memory, and life itself. They’re intense, poetic, and deeply human.

For someone discovering French culture, this playlist is a perfect first step. You don’t need to overthink it. Just listen. Let the melodies and voices guide you.

Put on your headphones, press play, and let yourself travel. No plane ticket required!