Think of France and the air is filled with myriad hues of romanticism, even more so when one thinks of the languid, almost erotic music of the country. Hyleen, a young French singer, songwriter and composer is currently touring India, giving renditions in various cities with her co-musicians Nicolas Viccaro and Julien Boursin, performing as a part of Bonjour India.
How can then, one resist the temptation to seek out common or rather uncommon links between ‘our’ and ‘their’ musical traditions. Mastering concepts like Neo-soul, Pop and Funk music, Hyleen is exploring her ‘B-Side’.
Excerpts:
How did a young girl from South of France land up into music?
Why not? I grew up listening to Soul and Funk Music. Life is about meetings, for me everything started with a teacher at school; he was a guitar player and played for us. After the first notes I completely fell in love with this instrument. A few times after I was listening to my first CD ever and it was ‘Incognito’. It all came from this.
Enlighten us about your genre of music and what makes it special?
I’ve always been inspired by different kinds of music. Neo Soul is a mix by itself and that is what I love. I don’t know if I would describe all my music as Neo Soul, I just know that my songs are all influenced by Pop, Jazz, Funk and Soul music that I’ve listening to since years now.
Explain your quote "Groove Over Everything"
The common thing of all the music and artists I’m listening to is the groove. Groove is the base of everything, ballads, lyrics, poetry or even making people dance, it’s my guide.
You are French but you write songs in English. Tell us about it.
Again, why not? English is the way I feel the melodies. It comes naturally for me; my grandmother was an English teacher. And more of it, English is a universal language; everybody can understand me all over the world. Thus, I am not surprised that one of my albums came out in Japan even before releasing in my home country, France!
What is your "B-Side"?
I consider my new album ‘B-Side’ to be my true début. It’s an album that consists exclusively of my original pieces and was recorded live in the studio. An approach that best captures the immense joy of me and my trio, I have many B-Sides! But if I had to mention one, I would say my shyness.
How has been your Bonjour India experience so far!
Amazing! Even if it’s our second time in India, this tour is something else. New cities, beautiful venues, people, meeting...and the food! Each day feels like a new travel!
