Christophe Maé on New Album and Collaboration with Francis Cabrel
Did turning fifty serve as a catalyst for recording this new album?
Christophe Maé: Not necessarily, not entirely. When I say “not necessarily,” it’s because for the past twenty years, I’ve been following a three-year cycle between two records. I release an album, go on a year and a half tour, then I take a break at home with the family before getting back to work and composing. With “Fête Foraine,” I fully respected this cycle, as “C’est drôle la vie” came out in 2023.
Does your youthful appearance make it hard for people to believe that you turned fifty on October 16?
People often tell me that (laughs). They forget that I was only 32 when I released my first album. Today, new artists are, what, 18, 20 years old? It’s crazy.
Christophe Maé reflects on his collaboration with Francis Cabrel: “He’s the artist I’ve listened to the most”
Did you have a specific musical direction in mind for “Fête Foraine”?
Normally, I’m all over the place, drawing inspiration from different directions. This time, I wanted to make this record at home or close by. Once I wrote and composed, I went with a small group of musicians, including brass, to immerse myself for three weeks at La Fabrique studios in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. On “Fête Foraine,” there’s everything I love, like the guitarist from Togo. In two notes, he takes you to his country. On the track “50 ans,” I brought in a Cuban artist. As soon as he opens his mouth, you’re transported to his world. And on “Adieu, mon amour,” you hear a traditional flamenco singer. I conceive my music as an invitation to travel no matter what happens. Even though, this time, I didn’t move. I make French songs colored with world music. And I’m fortunate to be surrounded by virtuoso musicians. And when I talk about virtuoso, I’m obviously thinking of Francis Cabrel, who lends his voice to one of my songs, “La Boutique des rêves.” For me, there’s nothing more beautiful. He’s the artist I’ve listened to the most, the one who has inspired me the most.
“Fête Foraine,” out on WEA. Touring across France starting from May 28.
