Listening to up-tempo French pop music always makes me sing along. No, I don’t speak French, but that can’t stop me from joining in, especially on the choruses, which catch my ear the same as American pop songs do.
At first, I feel the mood of the song and that sets off a
story in my mind. Then, I begin to hear patterns in the music and certain tones
to the voices and before I know it, I’m singing French—or at least French-sounding
“words” that seem to fit the musical story I’ve created.
Singing this way is pure joy. I strongly suggest you let yourself
go with the melody and mood of a French pop song, then open your mouth and sing.
Here are a couple of French pop songs that get me going
vocally. The first is Amandine Bourgeois
singing “Sans amour.” Start by just listening. That’s what will really get you singing—the
music bounces around and you can feel the fun of the sound and pretty soon
you’ll want to join in. https://myspace.com/mandinote/music/song/sans-amour-86349312-96545248
Next, try the more “Gypsy jazz” French pop that is performed
by Zaz singing “Je Veux”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aT8ZoRLiJf0
She adds a bit of the chanteuse to her styling. Listening with eyes closed I want to pick up a microphone and add some accompanying vocals. Maybe you will too.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aT8ZoRLiJf0
She adds a bit of the chanteuse to her styling. Listening with eyes closed I want to pick up a microphone and add some accompanying vocals. Maybe you will too.
Didja Know?
Gypsy jazz is
said to have had its beginnings in France in the 1930s with guitarist Jean “Django”
Reinhardt. It is also known as hot club jazz and gypsy swing.
Give them a listen and let us know Didja feel it, and Didja
sing along?
Just wanted to share this great comment from David Benders via me at Facebook:)))
ReplyDeleteDavid Benders via Diane Taber
Great site" "open your mouth and sing." -- You mean like in the shower?! While the vacuum is running?! In the car with he windows rolled up?! (This is what the g-kids were doing yesterday in the car!) (Yes maybe re-discover that child-like wonder of how sound comes out of YOU.) Inspirational stuff Diane Taber.