If Taylor Swift is the voice of today’s youth in the 2020s, Lady Gaga ruled the 2010s, and Madonna was the queen of the 1980s, then Brigitte Bardot was the ultimate icon of the 1960s.
Born on 28 September 1934, Bardot is celebrating her 90th birthday in 2024, yet her influence remains as timeless as ever.
She wasn’t just a movie star; Bardot was a cultural force, captivating the world with her beauty, charm, and undeniable talent.
And let’s not forget—she also made waves in the music scene, leaving behind some seriously catchy tunes that are just as iconic as her blonde bombshell look.
So, let’s dive into the world of this French cultural phenomenon with a closer look at Brigitte Bardot herself and six of her most iconic songs.
Brigitte Bardot: A Cultural Phenomenon
Brigitte Bardot (born in 1934) is not just a cinematic icon; she's a cultural phenomenon whose influence transcended the silver screen and reached far beyond France's borders.
In the 1960s, it was almost a given that actresses like Bardot would venture into music, and so she did.
In 1963, she signed with Philips and released her first album—a 25 cm record that marked the beginning of her musical journey.
Bardot's beauty was more than just admired; it became a global symbol of French allure, a rare feat for a French actress at the time.
Her effortless blend of sensuality and charm made her an international star, captivating audiences around the world.
But Bardot was more than just a pretty face in film; she also dipped her toes into the music world, notably collaborating with the legendary Serge Gainsbourg.
Their work together produced some of the era’s most memorable tracks, further solidifying her status as a multi-talented star.
Even French President Charles de Gaulle was charmed by Bardot, appreciating her for her simplicity despite her fame.
He invited her to become the model for Marianne, the national emblem of France, whose bust is displayed in every town hall across the country.
Bardot accepted, becoming the first woman to embody the face of this French symbol, merging her image with the very essence of French identity.
Brigitte Bardot’s legacy is one of beauty, talent, and national pride.
She wasn't just an actress or a singer; she was—and remains—a symbol of French elegance and a pioneer in shaping the global perception of French culture.
Brigitte Bardot in Italy 1961. Photo by Pierluigi Praturlon Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons
Bardot: the Epitome of French Chic
Brigitte Bardot is the epitome of French chic with a touch of rebellious flair.
Her look is iconic, blending effortless elegance with a hint of sensuality.
Think tousled blonde hair, often styled in a voluminous beehive or cascading waves that frame her face perfectly.
Her makeup is all about those sultry cat-eye flicks, emphasising her almond-shaped eyes, paired with soft, nude lips.
Bardot's wardrobe is a mix of classic and carefree.
She popularised the off-the-shoulder "Bardot neckline," which became a fashion staple, showing just the right amount of skin while keeping it classy.
She effortlessly switches from flirty sundresses to figure-hugging capri pants, often with ballet flats or espadrilles that scream understated glamour.
What really sets Bardot apart is her ability to make even the simplest outfits look incredibly chic.
Whether she's in a basic striped Breton top or a form-fitting mini dress, she exudes confidence and a carefree attitude.
Her style is all about balance—sexy but not overdone, elegant but never stiff, always with a dash of playfulness.
In essence, Brigitte Bardot's look is timeless, embodying the quintessential French allure that continues to inspire fashionistas around the world.
It's a look that's effortlessly chic, a bit wild, and undeniably iconic.
Brigitte Bardot in 1962 Photo Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons
6 BB Songs You Should Know!
Now that we’ve explored the world of Brigitte Bardot, it’s time to tune into some of her most memorable tracks.
From playful pop tunes to songs with a cheeky twist, here are six BB songs that you absolutely need on your playlist!
C'est Rigolo
"C'est rigolo" is a playful and whimsical song performed by Brigitte Bardot, released in 1963.
Featured in a New Year's Eve video from that year, the song captures Bardot's signature charm as she teams up with Claude Bolling and his orchestra for a lively performance that lasts just under three minutes.
Written by G. Bourgeois and J.M. Rivière, the song blends genres like Jazz, Latin, and Pop, showcasing a mix of chanson, ballad, and big band styles.
The Cheeky Tune of Mischief and Fun
This playful tune, set against the rich, vibrant backdrop provided by Bolling's orchestra, is a light-hearted poke at the conventions of the time, wrapped up in Bardot's unmistakable style.
The song, with its catchy melody and witty lyrics, encapsulates the spirit of the early 1960s—full of fun, rebellion, and a touch of glamour.
The Lyrics with a Twist
The lyrics of "C'est rigolo" by Brigitte Bardot paint a playful and cheeky picture.
The singer describes a series of silly and chaotic actions—like causing mischief at friends' homes, breaking things, and creating dramatic scenes, such as setting a building on fire or tricking the police by dressing up as a cliff.
Each time, she chimes in with "C'est rigolo" (It's funny), enjoying the chaos she creates and the shock it brings to others.
This song can be seen as a light-hearted poke at social norms, with Bardot playfully rejecting expectations and turning everything upside down.
The humorous tone adds charm, masking a deeper message about individual freedom and rebelling against the usual rules.
In the end, after dreaming up all these wild antics, the singer simply wishes everyone a happy New Year, still with that playful "It's funny," wrapping it all up with a wink and a smile.
La Madrague
"La Madrague," sung by Brigitte Bardot in 1963, is a gentle and nostalgic song that reflects her deep affection for her seaside home, La Madrague, located in Saint-Tropez.
The song, written by Jean-Max Rivière and composed by Gérard Bourgeois, blends the style of traditional French chanson with the simplicity of an acoustic ballad, creating a soothing and intimate atmosphere.
The melody is soft and repetitive, reminiscent of a children's lullaby or a nursery rhyme, with its gentle rhythm and minimalistic guitar accompaniment.
This simplicity, combined with Bardot's breathy, tender vocals, evokes a sense of tranquillity and a return to the innocent pleasures of life by the sea.
The Music Video
The music video for "La Madrague" was first broadcast on 1 January 1968 during the premiere of the "Show Bardot" on the second channel of the ORTF.
The video was filmed at Bardot's own property, La Madrague, and was directed by François Reichenbach.
In the video, Bardot is barefoot, dressed casually in a shirt and trousers, as she wanders between the beach and her house.
The song captures the essence of a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of fame, celebrating the calm and natural beauty of the French Riviera.
"La Madrague" remains an enduring classic, cherished for its ability to transport listeners to a serene, sun-kissed world, echoing the timeless charm of Bardot and her beloved coastal sanctuary.
Learn more about the story of the song "La Madrague" on the blog.
L'Appareil à Sous
"L'appareil à sous" is a playful and catchy song performed by Brigitte Bardot, released in 1966.
The title translates to "The Slot Machine" in English.
The Playful Gamble on Love and Luck
Written by Serge Gainsbourg, one of France's most iconic songwriters and composers, the song reflects the collaboration between Bardot and Gainsbourg during the 1960s—a period when Gainsbourg was known for crafting witty, provocative, and often tongue-in-cheek lyrics.
Musically, "L'appareil à sous" is characterised by its lively and upbeat rhythm, typical of the yé-yé style, which was popular in France during that time.
The song's arrangement includes catchy melodies and a bouncy tempo, making it one of Bardot's more energetic and playful tracks.
The Lyrics with a Twist
The lyrics are filled with wordplay and double entendre, as Gainsbourg often did in his work, and they revolve around the theme of a woman comparing herself to a slot machine, a metaphor for the mechanical and repetitive nature of love and attraction.
Bardot's performance in "L'appareil à sous" showcases her ability to deliver lyrics with a mix of coquettish charm and knowing irony, making the song both fun and slightly subversive.
This track, like many others from her collaboration with Gainsbourg, helped solidify Bardot's image as a symbol of 1960s French pop culture—glamorous, bold, and not afraid to push boundaries.
The lyrics of "L'appareil à sous" reflect a cynical and disillusioned perspective on love and attraction.
The narrator addresses a lover, comparing them to a "machine of sighs" and "machine of smiles," suggesting that their emotions and affections are mechanical, predictable, and devoid of genuine feeling.
The metaphor of a slot machine, which offers repetitive and often fruitless rewards, underscores the idea that the relationship is unfulfilling and ultimately damaging.
The narrator expresses frustration with the lover's superficial gestures—the "sighs" and "smiles"—and recognises that participating in this game of hollow emotions will only lead to suffering.
The repeated sighs represent unfulfilled desires and the futile pursuit of satisfaction in a relationship that lacks true love or depth.
The narrator acknowledges that continuing down this path will result in losing sleep, losing genuine happiness ("the smile"), and ultimately, emotional destruction ("until my last sigh" and "I can only die from it").
The song's lyrics are a commentary on the emptiness of relationships based on superficial attraction and the inevitable pain that comes from seeking fulfillment in something as mechanical and insincere as the lover's affections.
Gainsbourg's Wit
It reflects Gainsbourg's characteristic wit and ability to blend dark, introspective themes with playful, ironic language, all delivered through Bardot's expressive performance.
In the music video for "L'appareil à sous," Brigitte Bardot can be seen dancing the Twist, a dance that was all the rage in the 1960s.
As she performs the song, Bardot effortlessly incorporates the signature moves of the Twist—swaying her hips and pivoting her feet with playful energy.
The Twist, known for its simplicity and fun, perfectly complements the light-hearted and rhythmic nature of the song.
Watching her dance this iconic move in the video, one can't help but find it amusing and endearing, especially in 2024, where the Twist now carries a charmingly retro and whimsical vibe.
Bardot's performance captures the carefree spirit of the 60s, blending modernity and playfulness in a way that remains delightful and entertaining even decades later.
Tu veux ou tu veux pas?
"Tu veux ou tu veux pas" is a lively and playful song performed by Brigitte Bardot, originally released in 1970.
The song was written by Jean-Max Rivière and composed by Gérard Bourgeois, a duo that frequently collaborated with Bardot during her musical career.
The title, which translates to "You want it or you don't," sets the tone for the song's playful exploration of indecision in a romantic context.
The Flirtatious Anthem of Decisive Love
The lyrics are straightforward and repetitive, as Bardot teases her partner about whether they are truly interested in pursuing a relationship.
The refrain, "Tu veux ou tu veux pas," is catchy and memorable, making it one of Bardot's more recognizable tunes.
Musically, the song has a vibrant and upbeat rhythm, blending elements of French pop with a bouncy, almost carnival-like sound.
The arrangement includes a lively brass section and percussion, which add to the festive and carefree atmosphere of the track.
Bardot's vocal delivery is light-hearted and flirtatious, perfectly capturing the teasing and somewhat mischievous nature of the song.
"Tu veux ou tu veux pas" became popular not only in France but also internationally, and it has been covered by various artists over the years.
The song reflects Bardot's persona as a symbol of 1960s and 1970s French pop culture—glamorous, free-spirited, and unafraid to play with themes of romance and desire in a fun and accessible way.
This song, like many others in Bardot's repertoire, is a testament to her ability to blend music, charm, and personality, creating a piece that is both entertaining and enduring.
The Lyrics with a Twist
The lyrics of "Tu veux ou tu veux pas" by Brigitte Bardot playfully explore the theme of indecision in a romantic relationship.
The narrator addresses their partner with a mix of flirtation and frustration, urging them to make up their mind about their feelings.
The repeated refrain, "Tu veux ou tu veux pas" ("You want it or you don't"), highlights the back-and-forth nature of their interactions, where the partner constantly changes their stance, causing confusion and tension.
The song suggests that life, like music, has its ups and downs, and it can be beautiful and fulfilling as long as one doesn't complicate it with hesitation.
The narrator emphasises the importance of decisiveness, contrasting the simplicity of clear choices—black or white, yes or no—with the unnecessary complexity brought on by uncertainty.
Despite the partner's wavering, the narrator remains light-hearted, even teasing, about the situation, implying that while they desire clarity, they won't let indecision ruin their outlook on life.
In the end, when the partner finally says "yes," the narrator humorously flips the script, indicating that their patience has run out.
This twist adds a playful and ironic note to the song, reinforcing the idea that indecision can lead to missed opportunities.
Overall, the lyrics capture the playful dance of romantic uncertainty with a blend of charm, wit, and a touch of irony.
Bubble Gum
"Bubble Gum" by Brigitte Bardot is a playful and catchy song released in 1967, characterised by a unique blend of pop and western influences.
The Sweet Sound of Sixties Sass
Written by Serge Gainsbourg, the track stands out with its twangy guitars and rhythmic elements reminiscent of spaghetti western soundtracks, which were popular during the 1960s.
This western-style backdrop adds a quirky, almost cinematic feel to the song, complementing Bardot's light and flirtatious vocals.
The repetitive, catchy chorus and lively tempo embody the carefree spirit of the yé-yé movement, while the western elements give the song an exotic and whimsical twist.
This fusion of styles results in a distinctive and entertaining track that captures the playful and innovative collaboration between Bardot and Gainsbourg, making "Bubble Gum" a memorable piece of 1960s French pop culture.
The Lyrics with a Twist
The lyrics of "Bubble Gum" by Brigitte Bardot use the metaphor of bubble gum to explore themes of love, attraction, and fleeting pleasure.
In the song, Bardot compares romantic relationships to bubble gum, emphasising their temporary nature.
Just as bubble gum loses its flavour and appeal after a while, so too does love, which she describes as something sweet and enjoyable but ultimately short-lived.
The playful imagery of "bubble gum" is used to illustrate how love can start off as fun and light-hearted but eventually becomes less satisfying, losing its initial charm.
The use of "Bubble Gum" as a central metaphor also carries a cultural reference.
The term "bubble gum" is distinctly American, conjuring images of the United States, where chewing gum was popularised.
In fact, chewing gum was introduced to France by American GIs during the Liberation after World War II, making it a symbol of American culture and influence.
By using this metaphor, Bardot not only comments on the nature of love but also taps into the post-war fascination with American culture, which had a significant impact on French society during the 1960s.
The song cleverly plays with this symbol of American pop culture, blending it with the playful yet cynical view of romance that Bardot often portrayed.
On Déménage
"On déménage" is a song performed by Brigitte Bardot, released in 1963.
The title translates to "We're Moving" in English, and the song reflects - once again! - the playful and whimsical style that Bardot was known for during the 1960s.
The Chaotic Charm of Moving Day Madness
The song was written by Jean-Max Rivière and composed by Gérard Bourgeois, a duo that frequently collaborated with Bardot on several of her tracks.
Musically, "On déménage" fits within the yé-yé genre, a style of French pop music that was popular during the 1960s.
The song features a catchy, rhythmic beat and a playful arrangement, with instruments that add to the sense of bustling activity and the energetic atmosphere of moving day.
Bardot's performance is full of charm, conveying a sense of carefree joy even in the midst of what is often a stressful event.
The song is a reflection of the era's pop culture, where everyday activities and emotions were often transformed into light and entertaining musical themes.
"On déménage" showcases Bardot's ability to infuse even the most mundane aspects of life with a sense of fun and glamour, making the act of moving seem like an adventure rather than a chore.
Overall, "On déménage" is a delightful example of Bardot's musical style, combining playful lyrics, a catchy tune, and an effervescent performance that captures the spirit of the 1960s in France.
The Lyrics with a Twist
The lyrics of "On déménage" by Brigitte Bardot describe a chaotic and humorous moving day that quickly spirals out of control.
The narrator, who seems to be in charge of the operation, frantically instructs her partner to move furniture and other household items, emphasising the urgency and the disorder of the situation.
The action begins with shifting a large white sofa and continues with the removal of side tables, all while trying to avoid accidents like bumping into the chandelier.
As the moving progresses, things start to go awry—curtains are already down, but the rugs catch fire due to the partner's smoking habit, adding to the mayhem.
The situation further escalates when water floods the kitchen, sweeping the cat away and alarming the neighbours, who respond with screams.
The chaos reaches its peak when both the police and firefighters arrive, and even the president's office seems to be involved, with a phone call asking about the situation.
Through these exaggerated and comedic scenarios, the song paints a vivid picture of a moving day gone wrong, filled with frantic energy and humorous mishaps.
Bardot's lively and spirited delivery enhances the sense of pandemonium, turning what could be a stressful event into an amusing adventure.
Brigitte Bardot: Final Words
Brigitte Bardot’s music is as timeless and iconic as her films, capturing the spirit of an era with playful lyrics, unforgettable melodies, and that signature Bardot charm.
Whether you’re discovering these songs for the first time or revisiting old favourites, they’re sure to add a touch of French flair to your playlist.
If you enjoyed this trip down musical memory lane, don’t keep it to yourself!
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