Nouvelle Chanson[1] (French pronunciation: [nuvɛl ʃɑ̃sɔ̃], meaning "New Song"), derived from the French expression nouvelle scène française, sometimes anglicized as New Chanson, is a musical genre of Chanson which emerged in France in the 1990s and developed in the 2000s. This genre takes inspiration from such forefathers of French Chanson as Jacques Brel, Georges Brassens or Barbara, albeit in a more soft-pop music style. However, the principal influences appear to be rockier artists such as Serge Gainsbourg or Brigitte Fontaine. Principal French exponents of Nouvelle Chanson include artists such as Benjamin Biolay, Émilie Simon, Coralie Clément, Keren Ann, Françoiz Breut, Olivia Ruiz, Dominique A, and Camille. The term Chanson Nouveau is also used, and as a developing genre, there is considerable disagreement even in France about who belongs in this genre and how it is to be described.[2]
Well-known contemporary English speaking artists who might also be termed New Chanson in that their musical style is clearly traceable to this same Chanson lineage include artists such as New York-based Rufus Wainwright, his sister Martha Wainwright (who has recorded Barbara's song 'Dis, quand reviendras-tu ?'),[3] Regina Spektor (showing French influence in songs such as 'Après moi' and 'Ne me quitte pas'), CocoRosie (originally American, now Paris-based) and London-based singer-songwriter Ana Silvera.[4]
Nouvelle Chanson, whilst influenced by the forefathers of French Chanson (cited above) has developed through modern influences such as rock and electronica. There is a tendency for theatricality and the adoption of personas, alongside intensely poetic lyrics incorporating surreal and metaphorical elements. Wry, intelligent humour is also often prevalent. However the defining characteristic of Chanson, both old and new, is that it focuses on the French language as vehicle and instrument. There is an emphasis on craftsmanship with many of the artists classically trained and/or having studied music academically (cf. Benjamin Biolay studied at the National Conservatoire, Lyon,[5] Emilie Simon studied musicology at the University of Montpellier,[citation needed] and Ana Silvera has performed with the English National Opera and Royal Opera House[citation needed]) giving an intellectual aspect that sets this style of music apart from other genres such as pop, rock and 'anti-folk'.
Nouvelle Chanson artists can be divided into the following genres:
Nouvelle Chanson takes its inspiration artistically from Dada and Surrealism. Lyrically, inspiration is also drawn from fairy tales, contemporary poetry, and magical realist literature. It is also theatrical, and draws on the adoption of various personas.