My Top 27 Popular French Singers Today

Updated :
| By : Louise
Born in Cameroon and adopted at 1 year in France. I spent all my childhood in Alsace before studying in Paris. I like to defend my beautiful country with its strengths and weaknesses. Find me on Linkedin and CV.

Bonjour, Bonjour,

France is a beautiful country that appeals to people in virtually every field.

On the musical front, it boasts some very talented artists who are recognized the world over.

In this article, I propose a top 27 list of the most popular french singers today.

But first, check out My 23 Best French Songs 80s

— Louise

Read also: My 30 Best French Songs 2010s

My top 27 popular French singers today

27. Edith PIAF

  • Category : popular French singer
  • Decade: 50s
  • Gender : Female
  • Presentation : Edith Piaf, often hailed as France’s national chanteuse, holds an indelible legacy in the realm of music. Her evocative vocals and earnest delivery in songs like “La Vie en Rose” and “Non, Je Ne Regrette Rien” convey a timeless resonance. Piaf’s music, imprinted with her tumultuous life experiences, continues to echo through the alleys of Montmartre, capturing the essence of old Paris with a poignant charm.
  • Top 3 Most popular singles :
  1. La vie en rose
  2. Non, je ne regrette rien
  3. Milord
  • Youtube about the most popular single of Edith Piaf:

26. Georges Brassens

  • Category : popular French singer
  • Decade: 50s
  • Gender : Male
  • Presentation : Georges Brassens, with his distinctive baritone voice and poetic lyrics, remains an emblematic figure in French chanson. His songs often carry a sharp wit and societal critique, delivered with a gentle yet firm conviction. Tunes like “Le Gorille” and “Chanson pour l’Auvergnat” reflect Brassens’ unique blend of humor and humanism, rendering his work as intellectually engaging as it is melodically pleasant.
  • Top 3 Most popular singles :
  1. Les copains d’abord
  2. Le gorille
  3. Chanson pour l’Auvergnat
  • Youtube about the most popular single of Georges Brassens:

25. Jacques Brel’s

  • Category : popular French singer
  • Decade: 50s
  • Gender : Male
  • Presentation : Jacques Brel’s music transcends borders, embodying a fervor that strikes a chord in every listener’s heart. Known for his passionate performances and lyrical genius, Brel’s songs like “Ne Me Quitte Pas” and “Amsterdam” explore the depths of human emotions with a captivating intensity. His storytelling prowess and keen observational insight position Brel as a luminary in the galaxy of French musical legends.
  • Top 3 Most popular singles :
  1. Ne me quitte pas
  2. Amsterdam
  3. Le Moribond
  • Youtube about the most popular single of Jacques Brel:

24. Johnny Hallyday

  • Category : popular French singer
  • Decade: 60s
  • Gender : Male
  • Presentation : Johnny Hallyday, often dubbed as the “French Elvis,” was a cornerstone of the country’s rock and roll scene. His high-energy performances and classic hits like “Que je t’aime” and “L’Envie” showcased a flamboyant stage presence alongside a gritty vocal style, cementing his legacy as a trailblazer in French music.
  • Top 3 Most popular singles :
  1. Que je t’aime
  2. L’envie
  3. Allumer le feu
  • Youtube about the most popular single of Johnny Hallyday:

23. Claude François

  • Category : popular French singer
  • Decade: 60s
  • Gender : Male
  • Presentation : Claude François is synonymous with pop culture in France during the 60s and 70s, his catchy tunes and flashy attire capturing the zeitgeist of the era. Known for hits like “Comme d’habitude,” which was adapted into “My Way” by Frank Sinatra, François’ music and flamboyant performances continue to be celebrated nostalgically.
  • Top 3 Most popular singles :
  1. Comme d’habitude
  2. Alexandrie Alexandra
  3. Cette année-là
  • Youtube about the most popular single of Claude François:

22. Charles Aznavour

  • Category : popular French singer
  • Decade: 60s
  • Gender : Male
  • Presentation : Charles Aznavour’s eloquent lyricism and expressive baritone voice have left an indelible mark on the French chanson genre. His emotionally charged songs like “La Bohème” and “She” transcend linguistic boundaries, offering a universal exploration of love, loss, and the human experience, earning him a revered spot in global music history.
  • Top 3 Most popular singles :
  1. La Bohème
  2. Emmenez-moi
  3. Hier encore
  • Youtube about the most popular single of Charles Aznavour:

21. Joe Dassin

  • Category : popular French singer
  • Decade: 60s
  • Gender : Male
  • Presentation : Joe Dassin’s melodic and lyrical charm brought a tender warmth to the French music scene. With hits like “Les Champs-Élysées” and “L’Été Indien,” Dassin’s music encapsulates a timeless romanticism and a gentle nostalgia, evoking the quintessential Parisian ambiance in the hearts of his listeners.
  • Top 3 Most popular singles :
  1. Les Champs-Élysées
  2. L’été indien
  3. À toi
  • Youtube about the most popular single of Joe Dassin:

20. Dalida

  • Category : popular French singer
  • Decade: 60s
  • Gender : Female
  • Presentation : Dalida’s illustrious career is a blend of cinematic glamour and vocal prowess. Her hits like “Paroles Paroles” and “Helwa Ya Baladi” reflect a cross-cultural appeal, embodying a melodious journey from the heart of Paris to her Egyptian roots. Dalida’s tragic life adds a layer of melancholy to her timeless tunes.
  • Top 3 Most popular singles :
  1. Paroles, paroles
  2. Gigi l’amoroso
  3. Bang Bang
  • Youtube about the most popular single of Dalida:

19. Serge Gainsbourg

  • Category : popular French singer
  • Decade: 60s
  • Gender : Male
  • Presentation : Serge Gainsbourg was a musical chameleon, continually evolving his style from sultry chansons to reggae. His provocative lyrics and public persona often courted controversy, yet his genius in compositions like “Je t’aime… moi non plus” and “La Javanaise” showed a profound understanding of musical and lyrical artistry.
  • Top 3 Most popular singles :
  1. La Javanaise
  2. Bonnie and Clyde
  3. Je t’aime… moi non plus
  • Youtube about the most popular single of Serge Gainsbourg:

18. Michel Sardou

  • Category : popular French singer
  • Decade: 70s
  • Gender : Male
  • Presentation : Michel Sardou’s robust career is highlighted by a plethora of hits that have become anthems in the French-speaking world. Known for his powerful voice and emotive performances, songs like “La Maladie d’Amour” and “En Chantant” resonate with a wide audience, portraying everyday sentiments with a unique fervor.
  • Top 3 Most popular singles :
  1. La Maladie d’amour
  2. Les lacs du Connemara
  3. En chantant
  • Youtube about the most popular single of Serge Gainsbourg:

17. Plastic Bertrand

  • Category : popular French singer
  • Decade: 70s
  • Gender : Male
  • Presentation : Plastic Bertrand brought a burst of punk energy to the French music scene with his hit “Ça Plane Pour Moi.” His energetic performances and catchy tunes infused the post-punk era with a whimsical, irreverent spirit. Bertrand’s work reflects a playful side of French music during a time of musical exploration.
  • Top 3 Most popular singles :
  1. Ça plane pour moi
  2. Stop ou encore
  3. Le Petit Tortillard
  • Youtube about the most popular single of Plastic Bertrand:

16. Jean-Jacques Goldman

  • Category : popular French singer
  • Decade: 80s
  • Gender : Male
  • Presentation : Jean-Jacques Goldman’s profound songwriting and melodious tunes have established him as a revered figure in French pop music. With hits like “Je te donne” and “Quand la musique est bonne,” Goldman has a knack for crafting songs that resonate on a personal level, while his collaborative spirit has also enriched the musical landscape, showcasing his versatility and genuine love for music.
  • Top 3 Most popular singles :
  1. Quand la musique est bonne
  2. Envole-moi
  3. Je te donne
  • Youtube about the most popular single of Jean-Jacques Goldman:

15. Mylène Farmer

  • Category : popular French singer
  • Decade: 80s
  • Gender : Female
  • Presentation : Mylène Farmer is often hailed as a mystical figure in the realm of French music. Her ethereal voice, combined with a penchant for theatrical visuals in songs like “Désenchantée” and “Pourvu qu’elles soient douces,” creates a unique musical experience. Farmer’s work often explores dark and erotic themes, wrapped in beautifully melancholic melodies, which has garnered her a devoted following.
  • Top 3 Most popular singles :
  1. Désenchantée
  2. Pourvu qu’elles soient douces
  3. Sans contrefaçon
  • Youtube about the most popular single of Mylène Farmer:

14. Céline Dion

  • Category : popular French singer
  • Decade: 90s
  • Gender : Female
  • Presentation : Céline Dion, though Canadian by birth, has a significant place in the heart of the French music scene. Her powerful vocals and emotive delivery in French ballads like “Pour que tu m’aimes encore” and “Je sais pas” exhibit a deep connection to the Francophone audience. Dion’s ability to evoke raw emotion with her voice has cemented her status as a global music icon with a strong French legacy.
  • Top 3 Most popular singles :
  1. Pour que tu m’aimes encore
  2. My Heart Will Go On (Titanic OST)
  3. The Power of Love
  • Youtube about the most popular single of Céline Dion:

13. Zaz

  • Category : popular French singer
  • Decade: 2010s/2020s
  • Gender : Female
  • Presentation : Zaz’s music is a delightful fusion of jazz, soul, and French chanson, which she delivers with a charismatic energy. Known for her raspy vocals and vivacious performances, songs like “Je Veux” and “Le Long de la Route” are imbued with a spirited joie de vivre. Zaz’s eclectic sound and down-to-earth persona breathe fresh air into the contemporary French music scene, making her a beloved figure among audiences.
  • Top 3 Most popular singles :
  1. Je veux
  2. On ira
  3. Le long de la route
  • Youtube about the most popular single of Zaz:

12. Stromae

  • Category : popular French singer
  • Decade: 2010s/2020s
  • Gender : Male
  • Presentation : Stromae’s electro-pop sound and poignant lyrics tackle modern societal issues, making him a standout artist. Songs like “Papaoutai” and “Formidable” exhibit his ability to blend catchy beats with reflective storytelling, striking a chord with a global audience.
  • Top 3 Most popular singles :
  1. Alors on danse
  2. Papaoutai
  3. Tous les mêmes
  • Youtube about the most popular single of Stromae:

11. Matt Pokora

  • Category : popular French singer
  • Decade: 2010s/2020s
  • Gender : Male
  • Presentation : Matt Pokora, with his R&B infused pop, brings a modern groove to the French music scene. His charismatic performances and chart-topping hits like “Elle me contrôle” and “Juste une photo de toi” showcase a vibrant musical persona that captivates audiences.
  • Top 3 Most popular singles :
  1. Elle me contrôle
  2. Juste une photo de toi
  3. On est là
  • Youtube about the most popular single of Matt Pokora:

10. Sexion d’Assaut

  • Category : popular French singer
  • Decade: 2010s/2020s
  • Gender : Male
  • Presentation : Sexion d’Assaut’s rap narratives provide a gritty commentary on urban life. Their lyrical prowess in tracks like “Désolé” and “Ma direction” combined with a dynamic group synergy, reflects a contemporary pulse of French hip-hop, resonating with the younger generation.
  • Top 3 Most popular singles :
  1. Désolé
  2. Ma direction
  3. Wati by Night
  • Youtube about the most popular single of Sexion d’Assaut:

9. Louane

  • Category : popular French singer
  • Decade: 2010s/2020s
  • Gender : Female
  • Presentation : Louane’s mellifluous voice and emotive ballads create a heartfelt musical landscape. With hits like “Avenir” and “Jour 1,” she navigates themes of love and self-discovery, embodying a youthful spirit that connects deeply with listeners, both in France and beyond.
  • Top 3 Most popular singles :
  1. Jour 1
  2. Avenir
  3. Si t’étais là
  • Youtube about the most popular single of Louane:

8. Christine and The Queens

  • Category : popular French singer
  • Decade: 2010s/2020s
  • Gender : Female
  • Presentation : Christine and The Queens, helmed by the charismatic Héloïse Letissier, embodies a blend of electro-pop and lyrical introspection. Her fluid expression of gender and identity in tracks like “Tilted” and “5 dollars” challenges conventional norms, whilst her stylized visuals and earnest performances offer a refreshing narrative in the modern music realm.
  • Top 3 Most popular singles :
  1. Tilted (or “Christine” in FR)
  2. Doesn’t matter (voleur de soleil)
  3. 5 dollars
  • Youtube about the most popular single of Christine and The Queens:

7. Maître Gims

  • Category : popular French singer
  • Decade: 2010s/2020s
  • Gender : Male
  • Presentation : Maître Gims’ eclectic musical style bridges hip-hop, pop, and R&B, creating a sound that’s uniquely his. Known for hits like “J’me tire” and “Est-ce que tu m’aimes?”, his emotive delivery paired with catchy melodies has positioned him as a formidable voice in the Francophone music world, resonating with a broad spectrum of listeners.
  • Top 3 Most popular singles :
  1. J’me tire
  2. Bella
  3. Est-ce que tu m’aimes?
  • Youtube about the most popular single of Maître Gims:

6. Niska

  • Category : popular French singer
  • Decade: 2010s/2020s
  • Gender : Male
  • Presentation : Niska’s energetic flow and gritty lyrics provide a bold representation of French trap music. With hits like “Réseaux” and “Bâtiment”, Niska’s audacious style has significantly impacted the urban music scene in France, drawing a loyal following who appreciate his unapologetic authenticity and rhythmic ingenuity.
  • Top 3 Most popular singles :
  1. Réseaux
  2. Bâtiment
  3. M.L.C
  • Youtube about the most popular single of Niska:

5. Damso

  • Category : popular French singer
  • Decade: 2010s/2020s
  • Gender : Male
  • Presentation : Damso’s introspective lyricism and smooth flow offer a deep dive into his contemplative world. Tracks like “Θ. Macarena” and “Θ. Mosaique Solitaire” exhibit his ability to traverse complex emotions with a poetic finesse, making him a significant figure in the Francophone hip-hop community, revered for his thoughtful exploration of life’s intricacies.
  • Top 3 Most popular singles :
  1. Macarena
  2. Θ. Macarena
  3. Mosaïque Solitaire
  • Youtube about the most popular single of Damso:

4. Vald

  • Category : popular French singer
  • Decade: 2010s/2020s
  • Gender : Male
  • Presentation : Vald brings a provocative and audacious flair to the French rap scene. His lyrical explorations in tracks like “Désaccordé” and “Journal Perso” often delve into societal and personal tumult, showcasing a complex yet compelling narrative. His unfiltered style has garnered a dedicated following, appreciating his fearless artistic expressions.
  • Top 3 Most popular singles :
  1. Désaccordé
  2. Journal Perso II
  3. Bonjour
  • Youtube about the most popular single of Vald :

3. Vianney

  • Category : popular French singer
  • Decade: 2010s/2020s
  • Gender : Male
  • Presentation : Vianney’s soulful voice and poetic songwriting create a tender musical haven. Through hits like “Je m’en vais” and “Pas là,” he explores themes of love and loss with a comforting sincerity. His acoustic-driven sound and heartfelt lyrics resonate with those seeking solace in melodious storytelling.
  • Top 3 Most popular singles :
  1. Je m’en vais
  2. Pas là
  3. Dumbo
  • Youtube about the most popular single of Vianney:

2. Angèle

  • Category : popular French singer
  • Decade: 2010s/2020s
  • Gender : Female
  • Presentation : Angèle, with her catchy melodies and witty lyrics, reflects the modern-day sentiments of youth. Her songs like “Balance ton quoi” and “La Loi de Murphy” encapsulate a blend of social commentary and relatable narratives, making her a vibrant and relevant voice in the contemporary French pop scene.
  • Top 3 Most popular singles :
  1. La Thune
  2. Tout oublier
  3. Balance ton quoi
  • Youtube about the most popular single of Angèle:

1. Booba

  • Category : popular French singer
  • Decade: 2010s/2020s
  • Gender : Male
  • Presentation : Booba’s impact on the French rap landscape is indelible. Known for his hard-hitting lyrics and robust persona, tracks like “DKR” and “Ratpis” exemplify a fierce narrative that explores urban tales with a gritty realism. His influential presence continues to shape the trajectory of Francophone hip-hop, fostering a legacy of audacious artistry.
  • Top 3 Most popular singles :
  1. DKR
  2. Oklm
  3. Éléphant
  • Youtube about the most popular single of Booba :

And so ends my list of popular French singers today.

I hope you enjoyed it.

— Louise



People also ask about Popular french singers today :

Who is the most popular French singer now?

The most popular French singer of our time remains Jul.

He tops the list with his rap style.

But let’s not forget Céline Dion, Garou and many others who are world-famous for their classical music.

What are the top songs in France right now?

The most popular songs in France at the moment are numerous.

Many artists have raised their musical standards, so popular songs are everywhere.
But as an example :

  • Dernière Danse 2023 – Kyo Coeur De Pirate
  • On ne pleure pas dans l’eau
  • Je reste calme. Camélia Jordana

Who is the biggest singer in France?

The biggest singer in France is the famous artist Céline Dion.

But we can also mention others such as :

  • Edith Piaf
  • Mireille Mathieu
  • Diam’s

Who is the most streamed French female artist?

It’s hard to find a French artist ranked among the top French songs streamed.

But the only one to come out on top actually is Angèle.

Who is the most streamed French artist?

The most streamed French artist is Jul, with nearly 7 billion streams.

After Jul, we had Ninho and Damso with 6.8 and 4 billion streams respectively.


About Culture In France :

Note :