Benjamin Biolay has a hushed, sensual, “talk-singing” style similar to Serge Gainsbourg and Etienne Daho. Even before he became a popular French singer, he had gained a reputation as a sought-after songwriter and producer, having launched the career of Keren Ann and written 4 songs on the successful 2000 comeback of singer Henri Salvador.
In addition to co-writing, producing, and playing instruments (including piano, guitar, and trumpet) on Keren Ann’s first two albums, Biolay has worked with Raphael, Carla Bruni, Francoise Hardy, Jane Birkin, and Vanessa Paradis, to name a few. He’s also the older brother of French singer Coralie Clement, whose albums he co-wrote and produced.
Ready to lend his own voice to his lyrics, he released Rose Kennedy in 2001. It was a tender, intimate concept album inspired by Serge Gainsbourg’s own concept album, Histoire de Melody Nelson. The single “Les Roses et Les Promesses” gives you a flavor of the feel of the album.
La Superbe
His 2009 album, La Superbe won the Victoires de la Musique (French Grammys) for Best Male Artist and Best Album of Songs/Variety in 2010. What I love most about the leadoff single “Padam” is the lush musical arrangement (which is always something to look forward to on a Biolay production), the way he explodes into the chorus after being all blase’ in the verse, and of course, the killer dance moves he busts out in this one-take video. He’s much more committed to the dancing than the singing, as you’ll see below.
I spied the James Brown, the Michael Jackson hat throw, the Moonwalk, the “Beat It” arm reach (at 2:30) and some other trademark MJ moves, plus the Curly Stooge (at the 2:52 mark). What other dance moves can you spot? Let me know in the comments.
Porquoi tu Pleures?Biolay has respectable film career as well. In 2011, he starred in a French comedy called Porquoi tu Pleures?, and he released a jazzy album “inspired by the film.” It’ not an actual soundtrack, per se: Some music from the movie isn’t on the album, and some music on the album never appears in the movie.
There are duets, guest vocals by actresses from the film, and a lovely Cole Porter remake, so be sure to give the whole album — even if you don’t care for Biolay’s singing style. You’re sure to find something you like.
VengeanceBiolay’s latest album, Vengeance was released in 2012. Here’s the duet “Profite” featuring Vanessa Paradis, whose latest album he produced.
What do you think of this French singer? Leave a comment below.
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