Javanaise

Serge Gainsbourg

About Javanaise

"La Javanaise" is a song written and composed by Serge Gainsbourg originally for Juliette Gréco, and interpreted by both her and Serge Gainsbourg in 1963. The first recordings of both artists constituted the B-sides of each of the two 45s.


Year:
2005
91 

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J'avoue j'en ai bavé pas vous mon amour
Avant d'avoir eu vent de vous mon amour
Ne vous déplaise
En dansant la Javanaise
Nous nous aimions
Le temps d'une chanson

À votre avis qu'avons-nous vu de l'amour?
De vous à moi vous m'avez eu mon amour
Ne vous déplaise
En dansant la Javanaise
Nous nous aimions
Le temps d'une chanson

Hélas avril en vain me voue à l'amour
J'avais envie de voir en vous cet amour
Ne vous déplaise
En dansant la Javanaise
Nous nous aimions
Le temps d'une chanson

La vie ne vaut d'être vécue sans amour
Mais c'est vous qui l'avez voulu mon amour
Ne vous déplaise
En dansant la Javanaise
Nous nous aimions
Le temps d'une chanson

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Serge Gainsbourg

Serge Gainsbourg, born Lucien Ginsburg (French pronunciation: ​[sɛʁʒ ɡɛ̃sbuʁ]; 2 April 1928 – 2 March 1991) was a French singer, songwriter, poet, composer, artist, actor and director. Regarded as one of the most important figures in French popular music, he was renowned for his often provocative and scandalous releases, as well as his diverse artistic output, which embodied genres ranging from jazz, chanson, pop and yé-yé, to reggae, funk, rock, electronic and disco music. Gainsbourg's extremely varied musical style and individuality make him difficult to categorize. His legacy has been firmly established, and he is often regarded as one of the world's most influential popular musicians. more »

1 fan

Written by: Serge Gainsbourg

Lyrics © WARNER CHAPPELL MUSIC FRANCE, RESERVOIR MEDIA MANAGEMENT INC

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


20 facts about this song

Artist Collaboration
"La Javanaise" is a song originally written and composed by Serge Gainsbourg for Juliette Gréco. It represents one of the iconic collaborations in French music history.
Release Year
The song was first released in 1963 and quickly became a popular choice among singers and audiences alike.
Language
Sung in French, 'La Javanaise' is famed for its lyrical allure and emotional effect. The song beautifully embodies the charm and essence of French music.
Indirect Inspiration
The title 'La Javanaise' refers to the French rendition of a slow, stylized form of the waltz called the Java dance. However, the song does not speak about the dance itself directly.
Popularity
Over the years, "La Javanaise" has been covered by numerous artists around the world, indicating its lasting popularity. Notable artists include Iggy Pop and Madeleine Peyroux.
Lyrics
Serge Gainsbourg's lyrics in 'La Javanaise' feature complex rhyme schemes and nuanced vocal expression, central to the songwriter's style.
Film Use
"La Javanaise" has been used in various film soundtracks, including in 2006's "A Good Year" and 2012's "Shadow Dancer".
Evergreen Appeal
Even decades after its release, "La Javanaise" continues to be a popular choice in music competitions like 'The Voice: la plus belle voix', the French version of the international franchise, highlighting the song's timeless appeal.
Artistic Critique
Despite its popularity, "La Javanaise" has also faced criticism from some corners for being an imitation of certain South American music styles. Nevertheless, the song has stood the test of time and is regarded as a classic in French music.
Legacy
The song's enduring popularity has led to its inclusion in 'Best of' and 'Greatest Hits' compilines by both Juliette Gréco and Serge Gainsbourg, fortifying the song's place in both artists' legacies.
Song Origins
"La Javanaise" was originally written and composed by Serge Gainsbourg in 1962. It is one of the well-known and influential pieces of his work.
Significant Performer
The version of "La Javanaise" sung by Juliette Gréco became more famous. She was a popular singer and actress, often associated with the Bohemian lifestyle of post-war Saint-Germain-des-Prés.
Lyrics
The name "La Javanaise" comes from 'Java', a type of French popular dance. This makes sense as the song explores the theme of dance, both literal and metaphorical, throughout.
Style
The song is a good example of Gainsbourg's early style, blending Chanson Française — a style of singing that is distinctly French — with elements of jazz.
Use in Popular Culture
"La Javanaise" has been used in several films and TV series, including Les Tuche 3 (2018), Flawless (2007), A Self Made Hero (1996), and The Bureau (2015-2020).
Covers
The song has been covered by many artists, including Madeleine Peyroux, Jane Birkin (who was Serge Gainsbourg's lover), and Zaz. All of these artists emphasized the serene melody and reflective tone of the song.
Tribute to Gréco
After Juliette Gréco's death in September 2020, French radio stations played "La Javanaise" in tribute, further cementing its status as one of her signature songs.
Significance of Song
The song is often seen as a symbol of the hip, bohemian lifestyle of 1960s Paris. It also explores themes of love and loss, typical of both Gainsbourg and Gréco's work.
Language Play
The song is known for its linguistic playfulness. For instance, Serge Gainsbourg's subtlety in playing with the sounds of French language is particularly visible when he rhymes "d'avance" with "dance".
Legacy
"La Javanaise" remains one of the most popular French songs, both in France and abroad, and is frequently referred to when discussing the pair's artistic legacy.

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