Javanaise
Serge Gainsbourg
Struggling with Javanaise? Become a better singer in 30 days with these videos!
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
Struggling with Javanaise? Become a better singer in 30 days with these videos!
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.
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Release YearThe song was first released in 1963 and quickly became a popular choice among singers and audiences alike.
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LanguageSung in French, 'La Javanaise' is famed for its lyrical allure and emotional effect. The song beautifully embodies the charm and essence of French music.
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Indirect InspirationThe 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.
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PopularityOver 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.
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LyricsSerge Gainsbourg's lyrics in 'La Javanaise' feature complex rhyme schemes and nuanced vocal expression, central to the songwriter's style.
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Film Use"La Javanaise" has been used in various film soundtracks, including in 2006's "A Good Year" and 2012's "Shadow Dancer".
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Evergreen AppealEven 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.
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Artistic CritiqueDespite 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.
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LegacyThe 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.
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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.
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Significant PerformerThe 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.
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LyricsThe 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.
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StyleThe 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.
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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).
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CoversThe 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.
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Tribute to GrécoAfter 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.
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Significance of SongThe 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.
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Language PlayThe 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".
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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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Citation
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"Javanaise Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 28 May 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/15823757/Serge+Gainsbourg/Javanaise>.
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