The French House Music Scene: A Groovy Journey

Origins and Influences

French house, also known as French touch, filter house, or tekfunk, emerged in the 1990s as a distinctive style of electronic dance music (EDM). French musicians played a pivotal role in shaping this genre, drawing inspiration from various sources:

1. Euro Disco and Space Disco: French house was influenced by Euro disco, particularly the space disco subgenre that gained popularity in France during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Artists like Cerrone and Sheila and B. Devotion contributed to this cosmic sound.

2. American P-Funk: The funkadelic vibes of American P-Funk, championed by artists like George Clinton and Bootsy Collins, also left their mark on French house. P-Funk was often played alongside disco in French clubs.

3. Jacking Aspect of Chicago House: French house incorporated elements from Chicago house, with “jack house” briefly becoming a descriptive term for the sound in the UK.

4. 1970s French Pop Music: The influence of French pop music from the '70s, represented by musicians like François de Roubaix, Jean-Michel Jarre, and Serge Gainsbourg, is evident in the genre.

Defining Characteristics

So, what makes French house unique? Let’s break it down:

1. Sample-Based Grooves: French house tracks heavily rely on samples from late 1970s and early 1980s European disco tunes. These samples are often filtered and processed, creating a distinct sound.

2. Filter and Phaser Effects: The genre is characterized by its use of filter and phaser effects, both on the samples and alongside them. These effects add texture and movement to the music.

3. Original Hooks: French house producers often create original hooks inspired by the sampled material. These hooks provide a richer harmonic foundation compared to earlier house music styles.

4. Steady Four-on-the-Floor Beats: Most French house tracks maintain a steady 4/4 time signature, with beats ranging from 110 to 130 BPM.

Iconic Artists

Several iconic artists contributed to the French house movement:

• Daft Punk: Perhaps the most famous duo in electronic music history, Daft Punk’s innovative approach to French house left an indelible mark. Tracks like “Around the World” and “One More Time” epitomize the genre.

• David Guetta: Known for his crossover success, David Guetta seamlessly blended French house with mainstream EDM. His impact on the global dance scene cannot be overstated.

• Bob Sinclar: With hits like “Love Generation” and “World, Hold On,” Bob Sinclar brought infectious grooves to dancefloors worldwide.

• Martin Solveig: His playful and energetic tracks, such as “Hello” and “Intoxicated,” resonate with fans of French house.

• Cassius: The duo behind classics like “Feeling for You” and “1999,” Cassius embodied the spirit of French house.

Paris: The Epicenter

When discussing French house, we can’t ignore Paris—the beating heart of the scene. Here are some legendary Parisian venues where house music enthusiasts gather:

1. Wanderlust: This riverside club hosts unforgettable house music nights, featuring both local talents and international DJs.

2. Nouveau Casino: A hotspot for underground electronic music, Nouveau Casino keeps the French house flame alive.

3. Le Duplex Paris: A historic venue, Le Duplex has witnessed countless dancefloor moments fueled by infectious beats.

Conclusion

French house remains a timeless genre, blending nostalgia with innovation. Whether you’re grooving to Daft Punk’s robot funk or discovering fresh tracks at Parisian clubs, the spirit of French house lives on.

So put on your dancing shoes, embrace the filter sweeps, and let the music transport you to the heart of the French house movement! 🎶💃

Sources:

1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/French_house
2. https://www.nightflow.com/house-music-clubs-in-paris/
3. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gMJOqIEf-Kw