Raphael

With two albums already to his credit, young French singer-songwriter Raphael released his third album - 'Caravane' earlier this year. Many observers expect this new album to propel Raphael into the realms of French pop stardom.

The title track 'Caravane' was released as a single a few months ago and with its dreamy melody, gently driving rhythm, intricate guitar and Raphael's matchless vocals, 'Caravane' unsuprisingly became a huge hit in France.

Official Raphael website

Raphael at iTunes

Raphael bio at Radio France International










'Caravane', Raphael at amazon.co.uk or amazon.com

Corneille

When R&B singer Corneille released his debut album 'Parce qu'on vient de loin', he was immediately taken to the hearts of the French music loving public. In addition to his wonderfully smooth silky voice, the songs on the album contained a very personal account of the tragedy that befell him when he lost his family and close friends during the Rwandan genocide.

Undoubtedly moving at times, 'Parce qu'on vient de loin' is also an album of hope and contains uplifting tracks accompanied by smooth beats and rhythms.

Corneille's wonderful vocals and heartfelt lyrics ensure that 'Parce qu'on vient de loin' is no run of the mill R&B album. Add to this Corneille's musical mastery and 'Parce qu'on vient de loin' can be enjoyed by all listeners, French speakers and non French speakers alike.

Official Corneille website

Corneille at iTunes

Corneille bio at Radio France International



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'Parce qu'on vient de loin' - Corneille at amazon.co.uk or amazon.com

Indochine

Despite being around since the early 1980's, no anthology of contemporary French music would be complete without a mention of giant stadium fillers - Indochine.

Originally a synth/punk type pop band, Indochine have survived knocks and blows that would have ended the lifespan of many successful bands. Yet Indochine have persevered and after more than 20 years in the music business they are set to release their new double album 'Alice & June' in December 2005 (France).

Official Indochine website

Indochine bio at Radio France International

'Alice & June' - Indochine at iTunes

Amel Bent

Amel Bent's rise to stardom is the stuff of modern day fairytales. A semi-finalist in France's own version of 'Pop Idol' (Nouvelle Star) in 2004, Amel Bent went on to release her debut album - 'Un Jour D'Eté' in 2005, which earned her a gold disc.

A soul and R&B diva in the making, Amel's stunningly beautiful voice also sent her first single 'Ma philosophie' into the number 1 position in the French charts.

Visit the official Amel Bent website to listen to clips from her debut album - 'Un Jour D'Eté' : Le droit a l'erreur, Le temps passe, Ne retiens pas tes larmes, J'attends. There's also a chance to view the full length video of the hit single 'Ma philosophie'.

Amel Bent at iTunes










'Un Jour D'Eté' by Amel Bent at amazon.co.uk or amazon.com

Pascal Obispo

Prolific singer, songwriter and composer, Pascal Obispo is a pop heavyweight on the French music scene. Recording successfuly since 1992, Pascal Obispo has produced a huge body of work including 7 albums and has written a number of successful songs for other famous recording artists and performers.

His most recent albums, 'Superflu' and 'Fan' have been critically acclaimed and he sells out concerts when ever and where ever he performs.

At the Pascal Obispo website check out the video section to get a taste of what this extraordinarily multi-talented performer has to offer. Top tracks include 'Fan', 'La prétention de rien' and the anthemic 'Zinedine', homage to Zinedine Zidane.

Pascal Obispo at iTunes

Pascal Obispo bio at Radio France International


'Fan' by Pascal Obispo at amazon.co.uk or amazon.com



'Superflu' by Pascal Obispo at amazon.co.uk or amazon.com

Kyo

Kyo are probably the most fantastic pop and rock band in the world (well, in the French speaking world anyway). With three top selling albums and an impressive clutch of awards, including three 'Victoires de la musique', Kyo continue to go from strength to strength.

With their beautiful vocal harmonies and catchy pop melodies, Kyo's second album 'Le Chemin' ensured their place in French music history. Their follow up album, '300 Lésions', is more edgy and rock led but still contains Kyo's exquisite trademark harmonies. Even if you are not a French speaker, it's simply impossible not to sing along to Kyo's music.

Check out the music and video section on the Kyo website to listen to top tracks including: 'Tout envoyer en l'air', 'Contact', 'Je cours', 'Le chemin', 'dernière danse', and 'Je saigne encore'.

Kyo at iTunes

Kyo bio at Radio France International


'Le Chemin' - Kyo at amazon.co.uk or amazon.com



'300 Lésions' - Kyo at amazon.co.uk or amazon.com

Calogero

Winner of both the NRJ Music Awards, Male Artist of the Year and Male artist of the year at the Victoires de la Musique in 2004, Calogero is one of France's most popular artists.

With sales of his latest album topping 1,002,085 copies worldwide, composer-songwriter Calogero produces beautiful French music interlaced with powerful vocals and dreamy rock melodies.

Visit the official Calogero website or pop over to TV5 to listen to clips from Calogero.

Top tracks to check out include: 'Face à la mer' (duet with Passi), 'Yalla' and 'Un jour parfait'

Calogero at iTunes (France)

Calogero bio at Radio France International


'L'Album' by Calogero from amazon.co.uk or amazon.com


'3' the latest album by Calogero from amazon.co.uk or amazon.com