The Toubon Law on Francosonic: All French, all the time
This Sunday we’re diving into a mix from various French
artists, shining a spotlight on the ’70s.
Back then, most French musicians sang in their native tongue. Over time, however, the influence of the English language grew, and the French government enacted laws to prevent the “McDonaldization” of francophone culture and perceived decline of French. This led to the restriction of English language songs on French radio stations. In 1994, the Toubon Law went into effect, mandating that at least 40% of the songs on the air be in French.
Stations were up in arms about this limitation, particularly since musicians were producing fewer songs in French and opting for English to increase their global appeal. The French government has only compromised a bit on the law since ’94, reducing the francophone song requirement to 35 percent.
Here at WRIR 97.3 FM, it’s great to play French music by choice, if only for a couple of hours, so let’s dive right in!
Show archive
Playlist
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Claude Bolling, “Le magnifique: Pop mod”
from Le magnifique / Louisiane (bandes originales des films)
Polydor - 2004
-
Martin Circus, “Je m'éclate au Sénégal”
from Nostalgie les plus grandes chansons françaises
Universal Music Distribution Deal - 2016
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Martin Circus, “Français, français (du rock opéra "La révolution française")”
from Les grands succès du Martin Circus
Vogue - 1976
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Chagrin d'Amour, “Chacun fait (c'qui lui plaît) [Version originale 1981]”
from Best of Chagrin d'Amour (Le meilleur des années 80)
Musiques & Solutions - 1981
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Debut de Soirée, “Nuit de folie (UK Single Remix)”
from Best of Début de Soirée Collector (Le meilleur des années 80)
CBS - 2011
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Miossec, “Non, non, non, non (Je ne suis plus saoûl)”
from "Brest of" (Tout ça pour ça)
PIAS France - 1995
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Marjo, “À bout de ciel”
from Tant qu'il y aura des enfants
Productions musicales Celle qui va - 1990
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Taxi Girl, “Aussi belle qu'une balle”
from Aussi belle qu'une balle / Je suis déjà parti - Single
[PIAS] France - 1986