My 29 Modern French Songs

Bonjour, Bonjour !

After some research and articles about old French songs, here’s a post about more modern French songs.

So you can discover French chanson through my article My 23 Best French Songs 80s or My 21 Most Popular French Songs 2000s.

I’ve selected for you One song per year since 1994 to explore the modern french music.

Enjoy!

— Louise

Read Also : top 25 French rappers: my hall of Fame

Modern French Songs : Methodology And Dataset

The ranking is from :

• the French IFOP before 1984 : Institut Français d’Opinion Publique
• the French SNEP after 1984 : Syndicat National de l’Edition Phonographique.

The SNEP is an interprofessional association that has been defending the interests of recorded music in France since 1922.

I have manually selected the best singles each year from 1994 to 2022 according to the SNEP and IFOP.

My 29 Modern French Songs

Here is my 29 Modern French Songs :

29. 1994 – 7 seconds

• Category: Modern french songs
• Language of song: French, English and the West African language Wolof
• Editor: Squatt
• Annual rank: 1
• Artist: Youssou N’Dour & Neneh Cherry
• Gender: Male & Female
• Nationality: French

• Presentation of the artist: Youssou N’Dour and Neneh Cherry, two dynamic musicians, collaborated to bridge genres and cultures. Senegalese star Youssou N’Dour’s African rhythms fused seamlessly with Swedish singer Neneh Cherry’s pop and hip-hop influences in their 1994 hit “7 Seconds.” This collaboration not only created a chart-topping single but also showcased a harmonious blend of musical traditions, making a global statement about cross-cultural unity and the power of music.

• Youtube:

28. 1995 – POUR QUE TU M’AIMES ENCORE

• Category: Modern french songs
• Language of song: French
• Editor: Columbia
• Annual rank: 11
• Artist: Dion, Celine
• Gender: Female
• Nationality: French

• Presentation of the artist: Celine Dion, a vocal powerhouse from Canada, not France, has left an indelible mark on the global music scene. With her emotive delivery and a string of hit like “Pour que tu m’aimes encore” or “s’il suffisait d’aimer”, Dion has transcended linguistic boundaries, becoming a beloved figure in Francophone regions and around the world. Her ability to blend pop with romantic ballads has cemented her status as one of the most revered and successful artists in contemporary music.

• Youtube:

27. 1996 – SOIREE DISCO

• Category: Modern french songs
• Language of song: French
• Editor: Versailles
• Annual rank: 11
• Artist: Boris
• Gender: Male
• Nationality: French

• Presentation of the artist: “Soiree Disco” is a notable track by French DJ Philippe Dhondt, who went by the pseudonym Boris. Released as the inaugural single from his self-titled debut album in 1996, the song quickly climbed the charts, reigning atop in France and Belgium’s Wallonia region, showcasing Boris’s captivating musical prowess.

• Youtube:

26. 1997 – SAVOIR AIMER

• Category: Modern french songs
• Language of song: French
• Editor: Mercury
• Annual rank: 6
• Artist: Florent Pagny
• Gender: Male
• Nationality: French

• Presentation of the artist: Florent Pagny is a revered French singer and actor known for his powerful baritone voice. He’s celebrated for his diverse music, delving into pop, classical, and even opera. Over the years, Pagny has not only amassed a dedicated fan base in France but also across the Francophone world, showcasing an enduring appeal. His body of work reflects a profound artistic versatility, contributing significantly to contemporary French music and culture.

• Youtube:

25. 1998 – BELLE

• Category: Modern french songs
• Language of song: French
• Editor: Pomme
• Annual rank: 1
• Artist: Lavoie Daniel & Garou & Fiori
• Gender: Male
• Nationality: Canadian & French

• Presentation of the artist: Daniel Lavoie, Garou, and Patrick Fiori are esteemed French-speaking singers, each with a unique musical style. They notably collaborated in the musical “Notre-Dame de Paris,” where their distinct vocal textures harmonized beautifully, bringing the characters to life. This collaboration showcased a blend of their individual artistry, contributing to the musical’s success and further enriching the French musical landscape. Through their collective efforts, they displayed a shared commitment to storytelling through music, embodying the narrative’s emotional essence and evoking a timeless resonance with audiences.

• Youtube:

24. 1999 – MAMBO N 5

• Category: Modern french songs
• Language of song: French
• Editor: Vogue
• Annual rank: 1
• Artist: Bega Lou
• Gender: Male
• Nationality:

• Presentation of the artist: Lou Bega, a German musician and singer, shot to international stardom with his catchy single “Mambo No. 5” in 1999. His unique blend of mambo, jazz, and pop, along with his charismatic performances, brought a refreshing vibe to the global music scene. Bega’s retro style and engaging tunes continue to entertain audiences, showcasing his distinctive take on contemporary music by infusing it with a nostalgic yet vibrant flair.

• Youtube:

23. 2000 – CES SOIREES LA

• Category: Modern french songs
• Language of song: French
• Editor: EGP
• Annual rank: 1
• Artist: Yannick
• Gender: Male
• Nationality: French

• Presentation of the artist: Yannick, known for his lively track “Ces Soirées Là,” brought a burst of energy to the French music scene. This song, with its infectious rhythm and upbeat melody, became emblematic of festive nights out. Yannick’s performance and engaging musical style in “Ces Soirées Là” reflect a blend of modern pop with a touch of classic French lyrical charm, making him a notable figure in France’s contemporary musical landscape.

• Youtube:

22. 2001 – LA MUSIQUE

• Category: Modern french songs
• Language of song: French
• Editor: Mercury
• Annual rank: 1
• Artist: Star Academy
• Gender: Male & Female
• Nationality: French

• Presentation of the artist: Star Academy, a prominent televised music competition in France, has been a stepping stone for aspiring artists. Through rigorous training and live performances, contestants hone their skills under the guidance of experienced mentors. The show, with its blend of entertainment and professional development, not only propels budding talents into the music industry but also captures the hearts of audiences, making it a cherished platform for discovering and nurturing new musical talents in France.

• Youtube:

21. 2002 – STACH STACH

• Category: Modern french songs
• Language of song: French
• Editor: M6 Interactions
• Annual rank: 2
• Artist: Bratisla Boys
• Gender: Male
• Nationality: French

• Presentation of the artist: The Bratisla Boys is a fictional French band, known for their humorous and catchy song “Stach Stach.” Created as a spoof by comedians Michael Youn, Vincent Desagnat, and Benjamin Morgaine, the act satirized pop bands and quickly became a cultural phenomenon in France. Their playful antics and memorable performance showcased a creative, comedic facet of the French music scene, underlining the country’s appreciation for humor and satire in music.

• Youtube:

20. 2003 – HEY OH

• Category: Modern french songs
• Language of song: French
• Editor: UP MUSIC
• Annual rank: 2
• Artist: Tragédie
• Gender: Male
• Nationality: French

• Presentation of the artist: Tragédie is a French R&B duo that gained popularity in the early 2000s with their hit single “Hey Oh.” Their smooth melodies and soulful vocals resonated well with audiences, earning them a notable place in the French urban music scene. The duo’s music, often centered around themes of love and relationships, showcased a modern take on R&B, contributing to the genre’s appeal and growth in the French music market.

• Youtube:

19. 2004 – FEMME LIKE U

• Category: Modern french songs
• Language of song: French
• Editor: UP MUSIC
• Annual rank: 2
• Artist: K-Maro
• Gender: Male
• Nationality: French

• Presentation of the artist: K-Maro, a Lebanese-Canadian singer-rapper, made waves in the French music scene with his unique blend of hip-hop and pop. His catchy tunes like “Femme Like U” found a significant audience in France, showcasing his bilingual prowess and knack for creating infectious rhythms. K-Maro’s music bridges cultural gaps and brings a distinctive, energetic flair to the Francophone urban music, contributing to the evolving global reach of modern hip-hop and pop.

• Youtube:

18. 2005 – UN MONDE PARFAIT

• Category: Modern french songs
• Language of song: French
• Editor: Scorpio
• Annual rank: 1
• Artist: Ilona Mitrecey
• Gender: Female
• Nationality: French

• Presentation of the artist: Ilona Mitrecey, a French singer, charmed audiences in the early 2000s as a child star with her hit single “Un Monde parfait.” Her youthful voice and upbeat, whimsical music videos captured a sense of innocence and joy, resonating with both young and adult audiences. Although her stint in the music scene was brief, Ilona’s cheerful tunes provided a refreshing, optimistic backdrop during her peak popularity, making her a beloved figure in French pop music of that era.

• Youtube:

17. 2006 – PAS LE TEMPS

• Category: Modern french songs
• Language of song: French
• Editor: M6 Interactions
• Annual rank: 1
• Artist: Faf Larage
• Gender: Male
• Nationality: French

• Presentation of the artist: Faf Larage, a notable French rapper, has made substantial contributions to France’s hip-hop scene. Known for his articulate lyrics and rhythmic flow, Faf Larage explores various social and personal themes in his music. His track “Pas le temps” gained acclaim as the title song for the French version of the TV series “Prison Break,” showcasing his ability to craft compelling narratives through rap, and reinforcing his standing as a significant figure in the French urban music sphere.

• Youtube:

16. 2007 – DOUBLE JE

• Category: Modern french songs
• Language of song: French
• Editor: Vogue
• Annual rank: 1
• Artist: Christophe Willem
• Gender: Male
• Nationality: French

• Presentation of the artist: Christophe Willem, catapulted to fame by winning “Nouvelle Star” in 2006, has since become a cherished figure in the French music. His emotive voice and eclectic musical style, ranging from pop to jazz, resonate with a broad audience. Willem’s authenticity and engaging performances continue to endear him to fans, marking him as a notable artist who brings a blend of passion and innovation to the contemporary French music scene.

• Youtube:

15. 2008 – RAYON DE SOLEIL

• Category: Modern french songs
• Language of song: French
• Editor: Warner
• Annual rank: 2
• Artist: William Baldé
• Gender: Male
• Nationality: French

• Presentation of the artist: William Baldé is a French-Guinean singer-songwriter known for his catchy melodies and emotive lyrics. His single “Rayon de Soleil,” a cheerful and upbeat track, found success in the French music scene, showcasing his ability to create relatable and enjoyable music. Baldé’s style, which blends pop with a touch of reggae and folk, offers a warm and inviting musical experience, reflecting his diverse cultural background and his knack for crafting tunes that resonate with a wide audience.

• Youtube:

14. 2009 – CA M’ENERVE

• Category: Modern french songs
• Language of song: French
• Editor: Sony Music Strategic Marketing
• Annual rank: 1
• Artist: Helmut Fritz
• Gender: Male
• Nationality: French

• Presentation of the artist: Helmut Fritz is known in the French music scene for his 2009 hit single “Ça m’énerve,” which captured the collective frustrations of daily life in a playful and catchy tune. The track’s quirky lyrics and upbeat tempo brought a fresh, humorous perspective to French pop, showcasing Fritz’s ability to blend satire with catchy beats. His witty take on modern life’s annoyances resonated with listeners, making him a distinctive figure in the contemporary French music.

• Youtube:

13. 2010 – MIGNON MIGNON

• Category: Modern french songs
• Language of song: French
• Editor: Fox Mobile Group
• Annual rank: 1
• Artist: René la Taupe
• Gender: Male
• Nationality: French

• Presentation of the artist: René la Taupe, a virtual French singer, created a buzz with amusing and catchy songs like “Mignon Mignon.” This anthropomorphic mole character, introduced in 2010, quickly became an internet sensation in France. René’s playful tunes and whimsical persona brought humor and light-heartedness to the French music scene, showcasing the creative and entertaining potential of virtual performers.

• Youtube:

12. 2011 – A NOS ACTES MANQUÉS

• Category: Modern french songs
• Language of song: French
• Editor: Capitol Music
• Annual rank: 2
• Artist: M Pokora
• Gender: Male
• Nationality: French

• Presentation of the artist: Matt Pokora, a versatile French singer, has garnered a wide following with his appealing blend of pop, R&B, and dance tunes. Known for his energetic performances and charismatic stage presence, Pokora has released several chart-topping albums and singles, solidifying his status as a prominent figure in the French music industry. His talent and dedication to his craft continue to resonate with fans, making him a beloved and influential artist in contemporary French pop culture.

• Youtube:

11. 2012 – MA DIRECTION

• Category: Modern french songs
• Language of song: French
• Editor: Jive Epic Group
• Annual rank: 17
• Artist: Sexion d’Assaut
• Gender: Male
• Nationality: French

• Presentation of the artist: Sexion d’Assaut, a highly influential French rap collective, brought a fresh narrative to the urban music with their striking lyrics and unique sound. Known for their socially conscious themes, the group garnered widespread acclaim and a loyal fan base. Their impactful music, which often delves into societal issues, has left a lasting imprint on the French hip-hop scene, showcasing the power of collective creativity in addressing contemporary topics through music.

• Youtube:

10. 2013 – BELLA

• Category: Modern french songs
• Language of song: French
• Editor: Sony Music Entertainment
• Annual rank: 10
• Artist: Maître Gims
• Gender: Male
• Nationality: French

• Presentation of the artist: Maître Gims, a charismatic French singer and rapper, has captivated audiences with his distinctive voice and a mix of hip-hop, pop, and R&B. With hits like “Bella” and “J’me tire,” he’s carved a significant place in the French music history. His poetic lyrics and compelling visuals in music videos contribute to his broad appeal, making Maître Gims a notable figure in the contemporary Francophone musical landscape, where his tunes continue to resonate with a diverse listener base.

• Youtube:

9. 2014 – ZOMBIE

• Category: Modern french songs
• Language of song: French
• Editor: Sony Music Entertainment
• Annual rank: 14
• Artist: Maître Gims
• Gender: Male
• Nationality: French

• Presentation of the artist: see above

• Youtube:

8. 2015 – CHRISTINE

• Category: Modern french songs
• Language of song: French
• Editor: nc
• Annual rank: 12
• Artist: Christine And the Queens
• Gender: Female
• Nationality: French

• Presentation of the artist: Christine and the Queens, the moniker of French singer Héloïse Letissier, is known for her electropop tunes and androgynous image. Her music, often exploring themes of identity and gender, resonates globally. With hits like “Tilted” and “5 dollars,” she’s not only a significant figure in the French music scene but also a compelling representative of modern pop with a thoughtful twist, bridging cultural and musical boundaries. Her engaging performances and authentic narrative continue to garner international acclaim, showcasing the evolving face of contemporary French pop.

• Youtube:

7. 2016 – SAPES COMME JAMAIS

• Category: Modern french songs
• Language of song: French
• Editor: nc
• Annual rank: 22
• Artist: Maître Gims feat. Niska
• Gender: Male
• Nationality: French

• Presentation of the artist: Maître Gims and Niska, two powerhouse figures in the French music rap, collaborated to create dynamic tracks that resonate with fans. Their combined musical prowess—Maître Gims’ melodic rap and Niska’s energetic flow—results in a captivating blend of styles. Their collaborative work exemplifies the evolving nature of French urban music, showcasing a seamless fusion of distinctive artistic expressions. Through such collaborations, they continue to contribute to the rich tapestry of contemporary French hip-hop, engaging a wide spectrum of listeners.

• Youtube:

6. 2017 – RESEAUX

• Category: Modern french songs
• Language of song: French
• Editor: Millenium
• Annual rank: 3
• Artist: Niska
• Gender: Male
• Nationality: French

• Presentation of the artist: Niska is a notable French rapper. He has captured audiences with his energetic beats and compelling narrative in tracks like “Réseaux.” His music, often reflective of urban life and societal issues, resonates with the youth. With a distinctive style that blends street rap with catchy rhythms, Niska has carved a significant place in the French hip-hop scene, contributing to its vibrancy and relevance to contemporary audiences. His bold lyrics and dynamic performances continue to underline his status as a force in the evolving landscape of Francophone urban music.

• Youtube:

5. 2018 – LA MEME

• Category: Modern french songs
• Language of song: French
• Editor: nc
• Annual rank: 2
• Artist: Maître Gims & Vianney
• Gender: Male
• Nationality: French

• Presentation of the artist: Maître Gims and Vianney, two accomplished French musicians, collaborated on the track “La Même,” blending their distinct styles to create a hit. Their complementary talents—Maître Gims’ rhythmic rap and Vianney’s melodic pop—resulted in a catchy tune that resonated widely with audiences. This collaboration showcased a harmonious fusion of genres, underlining the rich diversity within the contemporary French music scene, and the endless possibilities that come from artistic melding.

• Youtube:

4. 2019 – AU DD

• Category: Modern french songs
• Language of song: French
• Editor: Qlf Records
• Annual rank: 2
• Artist: PNL
• Gender: Male
• Nationality: French

• Presentation of the artist: PNL, a French rap duo comprised of brothers Tarik and Nabil Andrieu, has captivated audiences with their emotive lyrics and ethereal beats. Known for their unique “cloud rap” style, they often delve into personal and societal themes. Hits like “À l’Ammoniaque” and “Deux Frères” reflect their poetic storytelling, making them a significant and enigmatic presence in the French hip-hop scene. Their ability to articulate complex emotions through music continues to resonate with fans, showcasing the introspective and innovative facet of modern French rap.

• Youtube:

3. 2020 – BANDE ORGANISÉE

• Category: Modern french songs
• Language of song: French
• Editor: RIEN 100 RIEN
• Annual rank: 1
• Artist: JUL FEAT. SCH, NAPS, KOFS, ELAMS, SOLDA, HOUARI & SOSO MANES
• Gender: Male
• Nationality: French

• Presentation of the artist: The French group “Bande Organisée” is a collective ensemble featuring artists JUL, SCH, Naps, Kofs, Elams, Solda, Houari, and Soso Maness. Their collaboration led to the creation of a hit single also titled “Bande Organisée,” showcasing a blend of their unique rap styles. This assembly of talented individuals brought forth a raw and energetic sound, contributing a powerful and resonant track to the French hip-hop scene, showcasing the collaborative spirit and the diverse range of lyrical and musical prowess among contemporary French rappers.

• Youtube:

2. 2021 – LA KIFFANCE

• Category: Modern french songs
• Language of song: French
• Editor: Ok Many Industrie Et 13ème Art Music
• Annual rank: 1
• Artist: Naps
• Gender: Male
• Nationality: French

• Presentation of the artist: Naps, a proficient French rapper, is known for his catchy tunes and relatable lyrics. With a knack for crafting tracks that resonate with the urban youth, his music often explores the realities and challenges of daily life. His engaging narrative style, coupled with rhythmic beats, has established him as a significant voice in the French hip-hop scene.

• Youtube:

1. 2022 – TOUT VA BIEN (FEAT. NAPS & NINHO)

• Category: Modern french songs
• Language of song: French
• Editor: Only Pro
• Annual rank: 1
• Artist: Alonzo
• Gender: Male
• Nationality: French

• Presentation of the artist: see above

• Youtube:

I’m at the end of my classification of modern French songs.

I hope you’ll find your way into my ranking.

See you soon.

— Louise

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People also ask about modern french songs :

What are the most popular French songs right now?

The most popular French songs at the moment are many and can vary.

But we can mention :

• Retiens les rêves – Grand Corps Malade.
• Je n’oublie pas – Vitaa
• Je reste calme – Camélia Jordana.

What is the French song that everybody knows?

The French song that everyone has known for years is by Édith Piaf: La vie en rose.

Coming to the hits of the moment, I can confirm that the best songs known to all come from artists like: GIMS, NISKA, DADJU and others rappers.

What is the French TikTok song called?

On the most widely used social networks TikTok, several french songs are used by audience. The most popular is “Dernière danse” singing by Indila.

This being said, this social network is used by everyone, and doesn’t have its own songs.

What is the most viewed French song?

The most watched French song for decades is: Dernière danse by Indila.

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About Culture In France :

• 
  My 27 French Songs 2023
• 
  My 27 Top French Love Songs
• 
  My Top 27 Popular French Singers Today
• 
  My 29 Modern French Songs
• 
  Top 25 French Rappers: My Hall Of Fame
• 
  My Best Of French Rap (Official Top 23 Songs)