yéyé

Yéyé is a French music genre that emerged in the early 1960s. The term "yéyé" itself is derived from the English exclamation "yeah, yeah," which was frequently featured in many of the songs of the era. This musical style was heavily influenced by American and British rock and roll, pop music, and beat music.

The Yéyé era coincided with a period of significant social and cultural change in France, particularly among youth. The music was characterized by its upbeat tempo, simple melodies, and often catchy, repetitive choruses. Lyrically, Yéyé songs typically dealt with themes of young love, school, dancing, and everyday life, reflecting the concerns and aspirations of teenagers.

Key artists associated with the Yéyé movement include Françoise Hardy, Sylvie Vartan, Sheila, Johnny Hallyday, and Eddy Mitchell. These artists, often young and charismatic, became idols for a generation. The fashion and visual style of the Yéyé artists also played a significant role, with trends like mini-skirts, go-go boots, and beehive hairstyles becoming popular.

While the peak of Yéyé was in the 1960s, its influence persisted. The genre helped to democratize popular music in France and paved the way for future developments in French pop and rock. It remains a nostalgic and cherished part of French cultural history, often revisited through compilations and retro-themed events.