Jean-Pierre Savelli: "Music evolves, but emotion remains"

In this final meeting of the summer, he shares his perspective on current trends, the impact of television shows, and musical heritage. You have lived through several musical eras. How do you perceive the evolution of music today? JPS.

Music has changed, of course, but I am not nostalgic for the 70s or 80s. Each decade had its own color: disco, ballads, slow songs... Slow songs, moreover, have practically disappeared.

Yet, as soon as a singer dares to release a real romantic ballad, it is a huge hit. Emotion does not grow old; it just takes on new forms. On stage, how do you adapt to this transformation of public taste?

JPS.

You need rhythm to carry the audience, songs that make them clap their hands. But as for me, I remain faithful to my DNA as a ballad singer. I do not go towards what I do not master: rock, for example, is not my terrain.

On the other hand, I am curious about what is being done. Between you and your daughter Lola, there seems to be a real musical dialogue. What place does she occupy in your current sound discoveries?

JPS.

Huge. She is at a music school in Paris, training to be a sound engineer, and thanks to her, I discover current artists whom I would have never listened to on my own. I introduced her to Nat King Cole, Sinatra, Dean Martin...

Monsters of the voice. As a child, she fell asleep to my ballads and those of my father. Today, she listens to everything except rap, which she leaves aside a bit.

Let's talk about the current scene: talent shows have given way to formats like The Voice. What do you think of this evolution? JPS.

It reflects its era: more show, more immediate impact. But I am skeptical about the freedom of the judges. I sometimes wonder if they are "directed", if what they say is truly spontaneous.

I have a lot of admiration for Florent Pagny, his voice is incredible, but you can feel that he is always waiting for the "strong" note. It is worth remembering that you can sing perfectly well without necessarily going into the high notes. And what about artists from these shows, like Jenifer?

JPS.

Jenifer is a fine example. She comes from Star Academy, that was 25 years ago, she is fabulous on stage. She does not compose, but she knows how to surround herself.

And that is essential: knowing your strengths, working with the right authors and composers. This applies to any artist. You are one of the few of your generation to continue actively producing...

JPS.

It is my nature. I am a craftsman of melody. I move at my own pace, free. I depend on no one. And above all, I still do what I love. You have to believe in your ideas. Any advice for those starting out in the business?

JPS. Keep believing in yourself and remain faithful to your uniqueness. Even if it is difficult, even if it is "too original" as some say... One day, it will end up touching someone. What are the next dates where the public can find you? JPS.

On August 29, it will be the big date with our show Les Décennies. A musical journey from the 50s to the 2000s, with 14 artists on stage, magnificent costumes, singing, dancing... A real celebration.