An oriental version of the mythical “Prince Actarus” by Jean-Pierre Savelli

At 76 years old, Jean Pierre Savelli continues to surprise. Between Japan, manga conventions, bold remixes and TV projects, the performer of "Prince Actarus" proves that Goldorak is not just a memory: it is an adventure that is constantly reinventing itself. Between meeting Go Nagai, manga conventions and bold remixes, the iconic singer talks about an adventure that continues to surprise.

You just got back from Japan. What was the goal of this trip? Jean-Pierre SAVELLI. It was very short, only four days, but intense. We were there for Goldorak's 50th anniversary. I met the patriarch, the creator, Mr. Go Nagai. He doesn't know Jean Pierre Savelli any more than the German, Italian, or Spanish singers, but he was adorable.

I presented my oriental version. He was amazed. We visited the studios, the archives, the effigies, the gold records. Over there, it's nothing but Goldorak. It's impressive.

Did you tell him about your new version of "Prince Actarus"? JPS. Yes, and I made him laugh a lot.

I explained to him that I had made an oriental version, with a Moroccan singer, Arabic-style violins, an electric guitar. The translator made me repeat it three times. He wasn't even aware that Go Nagai had sold the rights to the Middle East.

When he listened to the version, he was amazed.

Why this oriental version? JPS. Because the melody is French, like all the European versions. In Italy, Spain, Portugal, everyone has their own Goldorak. Personally, I wanted to bring something new. The "purist" fans might not like it, but if I start saying to myself "they won't like it", I won't do anything anymore.

Is the Goldorak craze continuing in France? JPS. More than ever. There are about a hundred conventions in France, and we do about thirty of them. Starting in September, we're heading out on a new tour. And in June, this oriental version of "Prince Actarus" will be released. DJs are going to have fun, that's for sure.

You will soon be on FR3 Marseille in quite an original show? JPS. Yes, lying on a bed! (laughs...) It's a Frédéric Lopez-style show, where we trace your life, anecdotes, career. We started in Toulon, then Paris.

At one point, the host asked me: "How old are you?" I told him 76. "And how long do you plan to keep singing?" I replied: "I'm going to try to beat Henri Salvador... or Hugues Aufray"!