French Playlist for Language Learners

Have you ever wanted to discover francophone music to help you on your French learning journey? Listening to music can help familiarize yourself with a new language. It works best if you genuinely enjoy the music so you can get those French words and phrases stuck in your head. Here are some of the most famous French artists both new and old!

The French Greats:

First we will start with classic French artists! You will likely recognize many of these singers, especially Édith Piaf who is famous for her songs La Vie en rose and Non, je ne regrette rien. Another French great is Jacques Brel, who helped define the modern “chanson” genre in France characterized by intense emotions and poetic lyrics. Some of the singers on this list, including Johnny Hallyday and Jacques Dutronc, incorporate a 60s rock and roll feeling into their music. 

• Édith Piaf
  
• Jacques Brel
  
• Charles Azanavour
  
• Johnny Hallyday
  
• Jacques Dutronc 
  
• Serge Gainsbourg
  
• Brigitte Bardot
  
• Georges Brassens
  

• France Gall
  
• Françoise Hardy
  
• Sylvia Vartan 
  

Modern Pop:

There is something for everyone on this list of modern French pop artists. Angèle is a Belgium pop singer known for her powerful ballads and collaborations with other artists such as Dua Lipa and Swing (who is also on this list). You may have already heard of Daft Punk, the famous electronic duo known internationally for their dance music. If you like American rhythm and blues music you will definitely enjoy Yseult, a talented singer songwriter and Swing who also takes inspiration from hip hop. 

• Angèle
  
• Stromae
  
• Aya Nakamura
  
• Daft Punk
  
• Dadju
  
• Yseult
  
• Swing
  
• Clara Luciani
  
• Christine and the Queens
  

Modern Rap:

One of the most popular genres of francophone music is rap and it has gained widespread international success. A notable example is GIMS who at 36 years old has released numerous hits and is the first francophone rapper to ever sell out the Stade de France. Another popular rapper is Damso whose song Macarena became a global hit in 2022. 

• MC Solaar
  
• Maître Gims
  
• PNL
  
• Damso
  
• Josman
  
• Zola
  

Enjoy listening and let us know who your favorites are!