I prefer to talk about our problems, to be proud of them, in place of trying to hide them. Because you can't. And I prefer to dance, to smile on it, to laugh on it.
StromaeRead
Hip-hop, pop, dance - the common point is melancholy. That's international, and I like this word because it's not only about sadness or happiness - it's both at the same time. And that's human, and that's life.
Interpretation
The quote reflects on the duality of emotions expressed in music, highlighting how both sadness and happiness coexist in the human experience.
In this quote, Stromae articulates the complex nature of human emotions as reflected in various music genres. He suggests that melancholy serves as a common thread among hip-hop, pop, and dance music, indicating that these genres capture the intertwined feelings of joy and sorrow. This duality is an essential part of life and resonates universally, reflecting the multifaceted nature of human experiences.
In practice
During a music festival speech about the power of songs to express diverse emotions.
I prefer to talk about our problems, to be proud of them, in place of trying to hide them. Because you can't. And I prefer to dance, to smile on it, to laugh on it.
It's always beautiful to sing with other great voices. I like voices in general. It's a big privilege to have great singers next to me.
Hate is indeed self-destructive, and this is what real Hip Hop must avoid at all cost.
I wanted to play blues. But I wasn't blue enough. I wasn't like Muddy Waters, people who really had it hard. In our house, we had food on the table. We were doing well compared to many. So I concentrated on this fun and frolic, these novelties.
Making a record? You've got to have the song, then you create a record. I think it's the same with a live performance. If the material is strong, you're already 90% there. I always tell young people it's all about the music, the songs. Work on the songs, work on the songs, work on the songs.
Playing the guitar is like telling the truth - you never have to worry about repeating the same [lie] if you told the truth. You don't have to pretend, or cover up. If someone asks you again, you don't have to think about it or worry about it because there it is. It's you.
You've got to learn your instrument. Then, you practice, practice, practice. And then, when you finally get up there on the bandstand, forget all that and just wail.
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