AtanariaDate: Jeudi 29 août
Location: Festival Rose, Toulouse
Lineup: Jahma, Deluxe, Fabian Y Su Salsa, Georgio, Tiken Jah Fakoly, Jain, Francis Cabrel, Mc Solaar
The first day of the Festival Rose was a vibrant celebration of diverse musical genres and a true testament to the power of live performance. Under a brilliant summer sky, the festival grounds came alive with an eclectic mix of sounds, ranging from reggae and salsa to hip-hop and French chanson. Here’s a breakdown of how each artist set the stage for a memorable evening.
Jahma: A Soothing Start
The day began with the soulful rhythms of Jahma, a rising star in the reggae scene. Jahma’s laid-back style, reminiscent of early Bob Marley, was the perfect way to ease the crowd into the day’s festivities. Opening with “Roots and Culture,” Jahma delivered a set that was both spiritual and deeply moving. His performance of “Rivers of Babylon” had the crowd swaying gently, with his smooth vocals and the gentle strum of his guitar creating an atmosphere of peace and unity.
Deluxe: Funky and Fresh
As the afternoon sun shone brightly, the stage was taken over by the ever-energetic band Deluxe. Known for their funky beats and electrifying performances, Deluxe did not disappoint. The crowd went wild as they kicked off their set with the explosive “Get Down.” Their blend of funk, pop, and hip-hop had everyone dancing, with standout tracks like “Shoes” and “Tall Ground” turning the festival grounds into a massive dance floor. The band’s quirky costumes and infectious energy made it impossible not to get caught up in the groove.
Fabian Y Su Salsa: A Latin Fiesta
As the sun began to set, Fabian Y Su Salsa brought the heat with their fiery Latin rhythms. The band, led by the charismatic Fabian, turned the festival into a full-blown salsa party. Fabian had the crowd twirling and spinning in a sea of colorful dance. Their vibrant brass section and lively percussion created an irresistible rhythm, proving that salsa music can unite people in pure joy and celebration.
Georgio: Hip-Hop with Heart
Georgio, the French rapper known for his introspective lyrics and powerful delivery, brought a change of pace to the evening. Opening with “Héra,” he captivated the audience with his blend of poetic lyrics and gritty beats. His performance of “Bleu Noir” was particularly moving, as he poured his heart out on stage, connecting deeply with the crowd. Georgio’s ability to blend personal stories with social commentary made his set one of the most thought-provoking of the day.
Tiken Jah Fakoly: Reggae Royalty
Reggae legend Tiken Jah Fakoly took to the stage next, and his performance was nothing short of a spiritual experience. As one of the most respected voices in reggae, Tiken brought a message of peace, unity, and resistance. His rendition of “Plus rien ne m’étonne” resonated deeply with the audience, as did “L’Africain,” a powerful anthem celebrating African identity. Tiken’s presence on stage was commanding, and his message was clear: music can be a tool for change.
Jain: Pop Perfection
Jain, the French pop sensation, delivered one of the most anticipated sets of the night. Bursting onto the stage with her hit “Makeba,” Jain’s energy was contagious. Her unique blend of pop, electronic, and world music had the crowd singing along to every word. Tracks like “Come” and “Alright” showcased her versatility as an artist, seamlessly blending different genres into a sound that is distinctly her own. Jain’s charisma and stage presence made her set a highlight of the festival.
Francis Cabrel: Timeless Elegance
As night fell, the legendary Francis Cabrel took the stage, bringing a sense of nostalgia and elegance to the festival. With a career spanning decades, Cabrel’s performance was a masterclass in French chanson. Opening with “Je t’aimais, je t’aime, je t’aimerai,” he enchanted the audience with his poetic lyrics and soothing voice. His rendition of “Petite Marie” was particularly poignant, with the crowd joining in for a heartfelt sing-along. Cabrel’s ability to connect with the audience on such a deep emotional level was a testament to his enduring appeal. His feat with BigFlo & Oli was moving and special to witness and will remain in the minds and hearts of the Toulousains for a very long time.
Mc Solaar: A Grand Classic
Closing out the night was none other than the iconic Mc Solaar, a pioneer of French rap. His set was a journey through his extensive catalog, with tracks like “Nouveau Western” and “Solaar pleure” highlighting his lyrical genius and innovative beats. The crowd erupted as he performed “La Belle et Le Bad Boy,” a song that has become a cultural touchstone. Mc Solaar’s charisma and command of the stage made for a powerful conclusion to an already incredible day.
Conclusion: A Day to Remember
The first day of the Festival Rose was a triumph, with each artist bringing their unique style and energy to the stage. From the soothing reggae of Jahma to the electrifying beats of Mc Solaar, the festival offered something for everyone. As the crowd dispersed, there was a palpable sense of satisfaction and excitement for what the rest of the festival would bring. If day one was any indication, Festival Rose is set to be one of the musical highlights of the year.
