Music of a wonderful world

Popular French bands. Recommended groups.

Former vocal coach specializing in Western musicRyo
With the motto “Learn the basics and enjoy putting them into practice,” I worked as a vocal coach specializing in Western music. As a teen, I questioned the idea that “Western music equals English,” and started listening to songs from around the world. Today, I devour music from over 80 countries and run a personal blog introducing tracks. I often listen to genres like nuevo flamenco, bolero, canzone, and R&B. I’ll keep updating articles daily to find the one perfect song you’re looking for!
music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.

Many Western music fans might be thinking, “I know American, British, and Scandinavian rock, but I’m not really familiar with French bands…” Quite a few of you may picture French electro when you think of France’s music scene.

So this time, we’ve gathered popular French bands and recommended groups from across the decades.

While the focus is on rock, the lineup is diverse—ranging from classic progressive rock and, of course, electro, to cutting-edge metal.

Take this opportunity to discover the unique charm of France’s distinctive band sounds.

Popular bands from France. Recommended groups (61–70)

Oh Yeah!Housse de Racket

Housse de Racket – ” Oh Yeah !” [Official Video]

Oh Yeah!Housse de Racket

This track from the album “Forty Love” features a sound that evokes unpolished yet striking electro, delivering a strong pop vibe that feels uplifting right from the intro.

The vocals give it an adorably charming touch.

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Dernière danseKyo

Kyo – Dernière danse (Clip officiel)

Dernière danseKyo

Kyo is a French four-piece rock band famous for their song Dernière Danse, which means “Last Dance.” Their music is pop-leaning yet lets the natural sound of the instruments shine through, with melancholic choruses that pair perfectly with slow-tempo drums to create a distinct flavor.

If you enjoy the vibe of the American rock band Red Hot Chili Peppers’ classic Californication, you’ll likely fall in love with Kyo’s songs as well.

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FouL’impératrice

L’Impératrice — Fou

FouL'impératrice

Formed in Paris in 2012, the French pop band L’Impératrice is known for catchy tracks that incorporate elements of nu-disco.

Their music strikes a perfect balance: whispery female vocals, clean guitar tones without excessive distortion, a groovy yet understated bass, and drums that quietly support the songs.

With a sound that feels both airy and rhythmic, they’re well worth checking out if you like ambient, funk, or fusion.

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Hortz Fur Dëhn Štekëhn ẀeštMagma

Hortz fur dëhn stëkëhn west (2017 Remastered Version)

Hortz Fur Dëhn Štekëhn ẀeštMagma

Magma is a relatively rare progressive rock band in France.

The most astonishing point about this band is that its leader and drummer, Christian Vander, developed a fictional language called Kobaïan, and the lyrics are written in that language.

This leads to the curious situation where even French listeners can’t understand the lyrics, which is kind of amusing.

Musically, they’re close to the American progressive rock band Tool.

If you like the chaotic sound of Tool, I highly recommend this band!

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Got to belongNatas Loves You

Natas Loves You – Got To Belong

Got to belongNatas Loves You

With fresh, gentle vocals and synth sounds that evoke a vast, cosmic atmosphere, this synth-pop wraps you in a sense of bliss.

It also carries a touch of nostalgic retro charm, and the music video is stylish in a distinctly French way.

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You and IPapooz

Papooz – You and I (Official Video)

You and IPapooz

If you’re looking for a French band that plays stylish, tasteful pop, we recommend Papooz, an indie-pop duo from Paris.

Formed in 2012 by two childhood friends, they released their debut album, Green Juice, in 2016.

With a minimalist, tropical rhythmic sensibility typical of post-2010 groups, paired with refined melodies and string arrangements in the French pop tradition, their work showcases exceptional taste and results in pop albums that many listeners can enjoy.

Thanks to their good looks, they’ve attracted attention early on in Japan as well, visiting several times and releasing music videos shot during their trips, much to the delight of their Japanese fans.

They’ve also covered the classic Lovely by Shibuya-kei pioneer Kenji Ozawa, so be sure to check that out too!

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On the road againRockets

On the Road Again

On the road againRockets

The Rockets are a band formed in 1974, and as their name suggests, they’re a French group whose songs and music videos mainly revolve around a space theme.

Although they’re a French band, they’ve been especially popular in Italy, and many of their tracks still sound modern and cutting-edge today, making them easy to listen to without any quirks.

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