France often prides itself for its large array of singers using French lyrics, this method was supposed to preserve the French culture faced with an increasing influence from American music.
“La chanson” has been part of French culture since the Middle Ages. However, when speaking of the chanson today, it is more likely to refer to famous 20th century singers than to Guillaume de Machaut or early modern artists. 20th century singers are classified in the “nouvelle chanson” genre.
Here are five of them you may not know. Remember that this list is entirely subjective, not exhaustive and without any particular order.
Are you looking for French books to read this summer?
Either in French or simply from French authors?
If you have already read all of Proust, Maupassant and Verne or do not feel ready yet to embark in Hugo’s LesMisérables, Alain Fournier’s LeGrandMeaulnes or Albert Camus’ L’Etranger, here are some non-classic suggestions of lesser known French books and authors, recent or not.
The small city of Kayserberg is a must-see in the region. Located in the Kayserberg valley between the Vosges and the Alsatian plain, this medieval city with a population of 2,700 inhabitants is typical of the local architecture.
Alsace is a famous region of Eastern France, having been a buffer between France and Germany for several centuries. As such, the region has a lot to offer about historical tourism. Interested in medieval architecture? Alsace abounds castles and old towns. Interested in World War One? Like during the previous war of 1870, France and Germany fought for almost every square kilometer of the land. Interested in the Second World War? It was the theater of bitter fighting between the Allies and Nazi Germany. But Alsace is also famous for its wine and vineyards, for its urban architecture, its vernacular languages, its cultural identity(ies) and its storks.
In May 2017, six history students made a trip to Alsace, visiting towns, castles and old battlefields. Here is a glimpse of what they visited.
