Rap Elle is an artist, singer, songwriter, and composer based in Paris, whose distinct mixture of pop and hip-hop elements is transforming the modern French music landscape. From an early age, she has been immersed in urban culture, which manifests in her dynamic combination of rhythmic energy and lyrical richness. Although she has only released two tracks thus far, Rap Elle’s artistic journey is already filled with potential. She is currently working on two upcoming tracks, “En émoi” and “Radio Dreamer,” anticipated to showcase a thrilling evolution in her sound by integrating electro-pop vibes with hip-hop rhythms.
In addition to her musical skills, Rap Elle is a versatile artist who is deeply involved in hip-hop dance and beatboxing, the latter of which she learned from the esteemed Willy Rewind. This diverse skill set enhances her artistry, providing her audience with a genuine and innovative experience. With influences from legends like MC Solaar and a strong connection to hip-hop culture, her music features a poetic and rhythmic elegance that distinguishes her in the industry.
Released on November 24th, 2023, Rap Elle’s single, “C’est pas les good ones,” makes a bold statement in the current French rap scene. Featuring clever lyrics, organic instrumentation, and an engaging delivery, the track narrates the misadventure of a young woman endlessly searching for her belongings. The single highlights Rap Elle’s artistic brilliance, skillfully fusing humor, rhythm, and melody into a unified and captivating listening experience. Inspired by the iconic French rapper MC Solaar, Rap Elle embodies a similar poetic allure, combining sharp lyricism with relatable storytelling.
The song begins with a compelling human beatbox introduction by Willy Amarat, also known as Rewind. This natural rhythm instantly sets the mood, inviting the listener into a raw and unfiltered sound realm. The beatboxing establishes a foundation that feels both personal and energetic, reinforcing the playful yet sophisticated vibe that permeates the track. The choice to start with beatboxing is refreshing, providing an authentic touch that aligns with the song’s humorous and light-hearted essence. Additionally, this choice emphasizes Rewind’s outstanding skills, showcasing how human percussion can enhance and elevate a modern rap piece.
At the 19-second mark, Sharif Eldan enters with a laid-back vocal delivery, presenting lines in English. His smooth, conversational style contrasts sharply with the rhythmic accuracy of Rap Elle’s performance that follows, adding depth to the song’s overall composition. This interplay of voices creates an engaging balance within the track, allowing each element to shine while contributing to a unified whole. His English phrases project a sense of universality, providing accessibility for listeners who might not speak French, while his French lines blend effortlessly with Rap Elle’s verses.
Undoubtedly, Rap Elle shines as the focal point of “C’est pas les good ones.” Her clear French delivery is laced with humor and irony, perfectly capturing the light-hearted struggles of the character’s quest for her belongings. Her cadence is both melodic and conversational, showcasing her ability to merge spoken word with rhythmic flow. There is a natural confidence in her voice that enables her to tackle comedic themes without losing depth or sincerity. This equilibrium between humor and emotional impact underscores her lyrical and vocal talents, establishing her as an exciting new voice in French music.
The arrangement of “C’est pas les good ones” is a brilliant example of minimalism. A jazzy, boom-bap-influenced rhythm underpins the song, offering a nostalgic tribute to the iconic period of 90s French rap. The consistent bassline supports the groove, whereas syncopated hi-hats and snare accents add a layer of intricacy. A heartfelt piano loop brings warmth and emotional richness, offsetting the crisp, rhythmic aspects of the beatboxing. This combination of organic and digital instruments produces a rich soundscape that feels both nostalgic and modern, ideally enhancing the lyrical themes.
Rewind’s beatboxing continues to be a key element across the song, providing both a rhythmic base and an energetic, percussive sound. His contributions enhance the track, introducing a tactile, nearly improvisational element that captivates the listener. The beatboxing complements Rap Elle’s vocal style in a manner that feels like a conversation, establishing a call-and-response effect that reflects the narrative exchange between the protagonist’s challenges and her resolve. This collaboration between voice and rhythm emphasizes the creative possibilities of human percussion within contemporary production.
What distinguishes “C’est pas les good ones” is its remarkable focus on detail in both its production and performances. Each component, from the singing to the music, is carefully organized to guarantee clarity and richness. The blend maintains the track’s raw energy while amplifying its textural depth, letting each element shine without overshadowing the others. The outcome is a refined but natural tone that appears close and direct. This equilibrium between boldness and sophistication highlights the creative intent behind the track, demonstrating Rap Elle’s talent for blending tradition with modernity.
In “C’est pas les good ones”, Rap Elle has created a song that is both enjoyable and artistically meaningful. The song’s cleverness, charm, and rhythm set it apart instantly, while its elaborate production and meaningful collaboration raise it to an advanced level of musical creativity. This single not only showcases Rap Elle’s significant potential but also establishes her as a new and captivating presence in French rap. Through its combination of narrative, rhythm, and tune, “C’est pas les good ones” draws listeners into a realm that is both familiar and enchanting, showcasing that Rap Elle’s talent is certainly one to follow.
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Listen to “C’est pas les good ones” by Rap Elle and many more in our R&B / Hip-Hop / Soul playlist.
