|
Log in to post
|
Print Thread |
|
|
|
|
|
User Showcase
|
Joined: May 2014
Posts: 4,067
Veteran
|
OP
Veteran
Joined: May 2014
Posts: 4,067 |
Hi fellow forum members, This time something completely different: a french chanson... Rue du Nord I was experimenting with the BIAB horn section RT's and came up with the idea of creating a French song. It's loosely inspired by Serge Gainsbourg's very distinct 'pop chanson style' back in the 70/80s. I watched a documentary/film about him a couple of years ago which was very interesting (here in Europe the song: 'Je t'aime, moi non plus' was a big hit). Anyway, it was a real challenge for Anne-Marie and myself to sing in French and make it really sound like... French. Although we are European, our (Dutch) language is completely different from French. Writing lyrics in that language also took quite an effort.. where would we be without Google translate. But that didn't completely cut it, the lyrics were also revised by forum members Cavalier Blanc and FredM, thanks guys! (Check out the English translation below every French line in the lyrics). Hope you like it, as always comments are welcome! Rob Song specifics: Style is _SPOPTTS.STY (SlowPop16 w. Trumpet & Sax[65RS]) 908:Bass, Electric, SmoothBallad Ev16 065 1762:Guitar, Electric, Rhythm Pop16thsArp Ev16 085 2297:Trumpet, Rhythm SlowPop Ev16 065 (1TrackHornSection) 2296:Sax, Tenor, Rhythm SlowPop Ev16 065 (1TrackHornSection) 542:Guitar, Electric, Rhythm Dreamy Ev 085 508:Guitar, Electric, Rhythm Dire Ev 085 1256:Guitar, Electric, Rhythm 2334:String Quartet, Rhythm PopChamber Ev 085 RealDrums PraiseWorshipSlow16ths^5-a:HS4, b:H24 Lyrics: Rue du Nord (Northstreet)Je pense à la jeune fille, qui se promenait ici ce jour-là (I'm thinking of the young girl who walked here that day)Ses longs cheveux bruns tombaient sur les épaules (Her long brown hair falling over her shoulders)Elle vient d'avoir 17 ans et vient d'arriver dans la grande ville (She just turned 17 and it's her first day in the big city)Dans la rue les hommes, qui la croisent, la devisagent (In the street men passing by, stare at her)Mais elle pense encore à lui, elle lui parlait cet après-midi, (But she's thinking of him again, he spoke to her this afternoon) Il demandais "Vous n'êtes pas d' ici?" (He asked: "you're not from around?")Puis il parlais d'un cafe, où il vient souvent, (Then he talked about a café he often visits)Peut-être ce soir .... dans la rue du Nord (Maybe she'll meet him tonight.... in North Street)Le vieil homme s' arrête pour acheter des fleurs pour sa femme (The old man stops at the store to buy his wife some flowers)Aujourd'hui, c'est le jour de leur mariage, il ne l'a pas oublié (Today is their wedding day, he didn't forget)Quand il arrive, elle va à sa rencontre, mais elle a l'air coupable (When he arrives home his wife walks up to him, but she has a guilty look)
Il y a des larmes sur les fleurs et elle avoue qu'il ne est plus le seul (Tears fall on the flowers as she admits that he hasn't been her only lover)
Dans la panique il marche vers sa voiture, (In panic he runs to his car) Il ne voulait pas savoir, le téléphone, des voix étouffées (He didn't want to know, the secret phone calls, the whispering voices)
la vitesse de sa voiture, une ombre , un cri, la voiture freine (The speed of his car, a shadow, a cry, the car stops)il est arrive a la rue du Nord (He has arrived on Northstreet)Les longs cheveux bruns, dans un flaque, (her long brown hair in a puddle of rain)son visage blanc, ses yeux ne regardent rien (Her pale face, her blank stare)Il ne poura pas la voir ce soir, Il attendra en vain ...... (He won't be seeing her tonight, he will wait for her in vain)la jeune fille, dans ce petit café... de la rue du Nord (for the young girl, in that small café.. on Northstreet)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
User Showcase
|
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 3,079
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 3,079 |
Rob and Anne Marie,
That was different for you, the French accent sounded OK to my British ears!
The song brought back memories of my 2 day stay in the Gare Du Nord in the '70's when a strike meant all trains were delayed back to Calais. An exiting and eventful few days LOL. So I listened to the song running through the memories; most enjoyable.
The song ended too soon, which is a good thing so I pressed play again!! and looked at the video this time !!! and got a totally different vibe on the song, wonderful!
thanks for sharing
Alyn
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
User Showcase
|
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 3,361
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 3,361 |
Hi Rob and Anne Marie.
Très bonne chanson et très Serge Gainsbourg, mais aussi très triste.
Où est mon kleenex?
ROG.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
User Showcase
|
Joined: May 2012
Posts: 2,934
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: May 2012
Posts: 2,934 |
Rob and Ann Marie
I really love your creations. I was reading the lyrics (the English ones. I cant speak a word of French) and trying to work out the link between the young girl and the old man.
Wonderful wonderful production as usual.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
User Showcase
|
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 8,848
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 8,848 |
Fascinating, interesting and beautiful song and video production. Stellar mix on this one and a nice blending of the dreamy and acoustic guitars. I enjoyed this a lot.
Charlie
BIAB 2025:RB 2025, Latest builds: Dell Optiplex 7040 Desktop; Windows-10-64 bit, Intel Core i7-6700 3.4GHz CPU and 16 GB Ram Memory.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
User Showcase
|
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 16,049
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 16,049 |
Charlie grabbed the word first - "Fascinating."
We read the lyric (English) and then watched
the video and got quickly pulled into the whole
ambiance. You have an amazing ability
to create these atmospheric pieces and
hold the listener/viewer from the first note
until the last.
The effects on the stills and vids work perfectly.
Gotta send this on to a french speaking friend!
Enjoyed it.
J&B
Last edited by Janice & Bud; 02/28/15 05:01 AM.
Our albums and singles are on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, YouTube Music, Pandora and more. If interested search on Janice Merritt. Thanks! Our Videos
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
User Showcase
|
Joined: Jun 2012
Posts: 2,888
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Jun 2012
Posts: 2,888 |
Hi Rob and Anne-Marie,
just beautiful.
Guenter
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
User Showcase
|
Joined: Jun 2012
Posts: 21,071
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Jun 2012
Posts: 21,071 |
R & AM
A very well presented piece. quite different, and emotional, and thoughtfully put together.
The video really worked nicely too.
Best
Trevor
BIAB & RB2026 Win.(Audiophile), Windows 10 Pro & Windows 11, Cakewalk Bandlab, Izotope Prod.Bundle, Roland RD-1000, Synthogy Ivory, Session Keys Grand S & Electric R, Kontakt, Focusrite 18i20, KetronSD2, NS40M, Pioneer Active Monitors.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
User Showcase
|
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 8,187
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 8,187 |
As usual: wow. Steller in all aspects.
-- David Cuny My virtual singer development blogVocal control, you say. Never heard of it. Is that some kind of ProTools thing?BiaB 2025 | Windows 11 | Reaper | Way too many VSTis.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
User Showcase
|
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 8,841
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 8,841 |
Rob and Anne-Marie,
This is really excellent - different and fresh. Really enjoyed it.
Bob
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
User Showcase
|
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 8,109
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 8,109 |
Rob and Anne-Marie,
This is really excellent - different and fresh. Really enjoyed it.
Bob exactly! So very different and fresh! It would be one thing if you simply had a never-ending river of inventive new ideas.. which seems to be the case... but the fact that you so relentlessly do justice to each new theme is just amazing to me! Whereas some of us are just hobbyists who have cool software (I speak mostly of myself), nobody could ever deny that the two of you are true creative people who know how to tell stories in an audio-video presentation! The intro, with brass, sounded so professional to me, like intros I've heard in classic top-notch songs.. I think the intro is my favorite part. But the very concept was already a home run before you ever started working on the execution of it! There was so much that had to come together here... the idea, the lyrics, the translation, the vetting of the translation, the pronunciation, the composition... all of which you nailed! But in some ways, this is not far from your recurring theme of relationship-based story telling. This song speaks of two different relationships, both of which ended in disappointment for various reasons. If there is anything more marketable than love songs, it would have to be songs about failed love. Your man-woman song writing team gives you a unique insight into love from both perspectives, so you have a real advantage pursuing this market. As videos for your songs go, I tend to be surprised by the creative approach taken, and how it varies from song to song. Sometimes you pick one aspect of the song, and develop the whole video around that theme... like the owl and the spider videos. This time, you let the video provide a visual account of the song. Arguably, a less artsy video in some ways but without a doubt, one that maximizes the story's impact. I thought it was one of the best videos yet in terms of composition, style, attention to storyline detail, and sophistication. In the same sense that the song itself shows mastery of music-making software, the video also shows mastery of the video editing software. It left me with the feeling that I had just watched a short indie film at Cannes. If I were a real music critic, I would have to give this song a standing ovation... for me, it works very well on so many levels that it clearly deserves recognition. Y'all are onto something here... keep up the amazing creative work or play or however you would describe what you do!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
User Showcase
|
Joined: May 2014
Posts: 4,067
Veteran
|
|
OP
Veteran
Joined: May 2014
Posts: 4,067 |
Thanks Alyn, Nice that just listening and listenening and watching gave you different vibes! Don't hesitate to do that again!  Anne-Marie
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
User Showcase
|
Joined: May 2014
Posts: 4,067
Veteran
|
|
OP
Veteran
Joined: May 2014
Posts: 4,067 |
Bonjour ROG, Merci beaucoup. Voici les Kleenex:  Nous voulions écrire une chanson mélo. Rob and Anne-Marie
Last edited by R & AM; 02/28/15 02:06 PM.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
User Showcase
|
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 11,011
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 11,011 |
This is such a pretty song! I had looked at the tracks used a few times because I kept looking for the atmosphere pad then figured out it is Anne. I liked the way the dual panned guitar started the song then stayed in the forefront throughout except during the vocal. Also like how the trumpet and sax were blended, Just gorgeous ear candy throughout. Sometimes it's the lyrics, sometimes the musicianship but most of the time it's the arrangement or production sound. In this case it's the sound.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
User Showcase
|
Joined: Jan 2014
Posts: 31
Enthusiast
|
|
Enthusiast
Joined: Jan 2014
Posts: 31 |
Ouah ...i m very proud to contribuate a little to your work
this song is fascinating
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
User Showcase
|
Joined: Aug 2012
Posts: 12,869
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Aug 2012
Posts: 12,869 |
Rob and Anne-Marie...
This is simply beautiful.
A very professional sounding production. The guitars are perfect. Nice(!) use of the horns. The vocals are really well recorded (and beautiful).
Simply beautiful.
floyd
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
User Showcase
|
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 1,987
Expert
|
|
Expert
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 1,987 |
Rob and Anne-Marie,
Like Floyd said, this is simply beautiful. Your versatility is amazing. I have to say, I like everything I have heard you do! This is no exception.
Steve
Steve Young Music"In order to compose, all you need to do is remember a tune that nobody else has thought of." - Robert Schumann
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
User Showcase
|
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 2,281
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 2,281 |
Hi Rob and Anne-Marie, firs time I listen to any of your songs. This is just beautiful.Great production and sounds. Superb vocals. I'm hooked.
Mike B.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
User Showcase
|
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 386
Journeyman
|
|
Journeyman
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 386 |
That was an exdcellent listen for me. What emotion that little melody carries. The presentation and the mix were superb! Thank you.
RichR
RichR
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
User Showcase
|
Joined: May 2010
Posts: 1,719
Expert
|
|
Expert
Joined: May 2010
Posts: 1,719 |
Beautifully clear and crisp. Conveyed a wonderful atmosphere and the video is delightful!
Sounds totally professional to me. Cheers.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Ask sales and support questions about Band-in-a-Box using natural language.
ChatPG's knowledge base includes the full Band-in-a-Box User Manual and sales information from the website.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Band-in-a-Box® 2025 for Mac® users: Build 904 now available!
If you're already using Band-in-a-Box® 2025 for Mac®, make sure to grab the latest update! Build 904 is now available for download and includes the newest additions and enhancements from our team.
Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Windows® users: Build 1237 is now available!
Already a Band-in-a-Box 2026 for Windows user? Stay up to date and download the build 1237 to get all the latest additions and enhancements.
PowerTracks Pro 2026 for Windows is Here!
PowerTracks 2026 is here—bringing powerful new enhancements designed to make your production workflow faster, smoother, and more intuitive than ever.
The enhanced Mixer now shows Track Type and Instrument icons for instant track recognition, while a new grid option simplifies editing views. Non-floating windows adopt a modern title bar style, replacing the legacy blue bar.
The Master Volume is now applied at the end of the audio chain for consistent levels and full-signal master effects.
Tablature now includes a “Save bends when saving XML” option for improved compatibility with PG Music tools. Plus, you can instantly match all track heights with a simple Ctrl-release after resizing, and Add2 chords from MGU/SGU files are now fully supported... and more!
Get started today—first-time packages start at just $49.
Already using PowerTracks Pro Audio? Upgrade for as little as $29 and enjoy the latest improvements!
Order now!
Band-in-a-Box 2026 for Windows Special Offers End Tomorrow (January 15th, 2026) at 11:59 PM PST!
Time really is running out! Save up to 50% on Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Windows® upgrades and receive a FREE Bonus PAK—only when you order by 11:59 PM PST on Thursday, January 15, 2026!
We've added many major new features and new content in a redesigned Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Windows®!
Version 2026 introduces a modernized GUI redesign across the program, with updated toolbars, refreshed windows, smoother workflows, and a new Dark Mode option. There’s also a new side toolbar for quicker access to commonly used windows, and the new Multi-View feature lets you arrange multiple windows as layered panels without overlap, making it easier to customize your workspace.
Another exciting new addition is the new AI-Notes feature, which can transcribe polyphonic audio into MIDI. You can view the results in notation or play them back as MIDI, and choose whether to process an entire track or focus on specific parts like drums, bass, guitars/piano, or vocals. There's over 100 new features in Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Windows®.
There's an amazing collection of new content too, including 202 RealTracks, new RealStyles, MIDI SuperTracks, Instrumental Studies, “Songs with Vocals” Artist Performance Sets, Playable RealTracks Set 5, two RealDrums Stems sets, XPro Styles PAK 10, Xtra Styles PAK 21, and much more!
Upgrade your Band-in-a-Box for Windows to save up to 50% on most Band-in-a-Box® 2026 upgrade packages!
Plus, when you order your Band-in-a-Box® 2026 upgrade during our special, you'll receive a Free Bonus PAK of exciting new add-ons.
If you need any help deciding which package is the best option for you, just let us know. We are here to help!
Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Windows® Special Offers Extended Until January 15, 2026!
Good news! You still have time to upgrade to the latest version of Band-in-a-Box® for Windows® and save. Our Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Windows® special now runs through January 15, 2025!
We've packed Band-in-a-Box® 2026 with major new features, enhancements, and an incredible lineup of new content! The program now sports a sleek, modern GUI redesign across the entire interface, including updated toolbars, refreshed windows, smoother workflows, a new dark mode option, and more. The brand-new side toolbar provides quicker access to key windows, while the new Multi-View feature lets you arrange multiple windows as layered panels without overlap, creating a flexible, clutter-free workspace. We have an amazing new “AI-Notes” feature. This transcribes polyphonic audio into MIDI so you can view it in notation or play it back as MIDI. You can process an entire track (all pitched instruments and drums) or focus on individual parts like drums, bass, guitars/piano, or vocals. There's an amazing collection of new content too, including 202 RealTracks, new RealStyles, MIDI SuperTracks, Instrumental Studies, “Songs with Vocals” Artist Performance Sets, Playable RealTracks Set 5, two RealDrums Stems sets, XPro Styles PAK 10, Xtra Styles PAK 21, and much more!
There are over 100 new features in Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Windows®.
When you order purchase Band-in-a-Box® 2026 before 11:59 PM PST on January 15th, you'll also receive a Free Bonus PAK packed with exciting new add-ons.
Upgrade to Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Windows® today! Check out the Band-in-a-Box® packages page for all the purchase options available.
Happy New Year!
Thank you for being part of the Band-in-a-Box® community.
Wishing you and yours a very happy 2026—Happy New Year from all of us at PG Music!
Season's Greetings!
Wishing everyone a happy, healthy holiday season—thanks for being part of our community!
The office will be closed for Christmas Day, but we will be back on Boxing Day (Dec 26th) at 6:00am PST.
Team PG
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Forums57
Topics86,053
Posts799,459
Members40,021
| |
Most Online44,367
Mar 4th, 2026
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Dansk
Deutsch - Windows
Español
Français - Windows
Italiano - Windows
Nederlands
Polski
Português
Svenskt
русский
Japanese
Simplified Chinese
Traditional Chinese
Korean