Desireless and the music you discover on holiday. How European Tourists Turned a French Anthem into a Continental Hit
The Twelve Inch 127 : "Voyage Voyage" (Desireless)
Welcome, I’m Pe Dupre and this is “The Twelve Inch”, a newsletter that tells the history of dance music between 1975 and 1995, one twelve inch at a time.
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This past week I had my first collaboration with the talented Brad Kyle on his fantastic series, Tune Tag (Front Row & Backstage). I've admired Brad’s work since I first started writing on Substack back in February, so being invited to join him this week was both an incredible experience and a true honor. Collaborations like this are what make Substack such a unique and inspiring platform, setting it apart from the rest. Great stuff !
Introduction: A Nostalgic Journey to the Summers of the '80s
Spring and summer have always been my favorite seasons, especially when I think back to growing up in the '80s. Back then, with the youthful excitement of upcoming vacations, I eagerly anticipated a few weeks of "dolce far niente"—sea, sun, beach, and fun (and I’ll leave the details of that "fun" to your imagination since this is a family-friendly newsletter! 😁). For us West and North European tourists, (one of) the highlights of every summer was bringing home the hits we discovered on holiday, songs that would forever be tied to those carefree days. As summer 2024 begins to wind down (at least in the northern hemisphere), it feels like the perfect time to dive into the unique phenomenon of the “holiday hit.” And what better example than the 1987 classic from Desireless, "Voyage Voyage"?
The Mystery of "Voyage Voyage": How a French Song Became a Pan-European Hit
Why did a song that’s entirely in French, sung by an enigmatic artist with a towering hairstyle, managed to conquer dance floors across Europe in 1987? (and subsequently also the rest of the world ex US as it appears) "Voyage Voyage" by Desireless is a testament to the power of European tourism, summer escapades, and the unique way music traveled across borders in the pre-digital era.
But here's the burning question: Would "Voyage Voyage" have become the iconic hit it is today if it weren’t for the legions of European tourists who took it home in their suitcases, figuratively speaking? And did French and Italian artists deliberately craft their music with the summer season in mind, knowing that their sunny sounds could become continental sensations? Let’s dive into the fascinating interplay between music, tourism, and summer vibes that turned "Voyage Voyage" into a pan-European phenomenon.
The Birth of "Voyage Voyage": Crafting a Timeless Sound
When Claudie Fritsch-Mentrop, better known as Desireless, released "Voyage Voyage" in 1986, she had no idea that the song would become an anthem for a generation a year later. Produced by the veteran songwriter & producer Jean-Michel Rivat (who had worked before with artists like Joe Dassin, France Gall, Claude François and Michel Delpech), the track was meticulously crafted to capture the spirit of the mid-'80s with its polished, synth-driven sound. The song's lyrics, which speak of travel and escapism without ever mentioning a specific destination, tapped into a universal longing for adventure. Yet, unlike many other hits of the era, "Voyage Voyage" avoided the overtly commercial and saccharine approach that dominated the charts. Instead, it offered a sophisticated, almost ethereal experience, which resonated with listeners across Europe.
Jean-Michel Rivat tried to build his own career before aborting and becoming active behind the screen
The Creation of Desireless: A Concept Beyond Desire
To make a lasting impact, Rivat and Fritsch knew they had to create not just a song but a persona. The stage name "Desireless," meaning "beyond desire," perfectly encapsulated the detached, enigmatic character they wanted to project. This persona was further reinforced by Desireless’s androgynous appearance and impassive attitude, which aligned with her interest in Hindu philosophy and meditation. The combination of her unique look and the song’s ethereal quality made "Voyage Voyage" the standout 80’s song we know today.
The Power of the European Summer: Tourism as a Musical Conduit
The mid-80s were a time when European borders were becoming increasingly porous, not just politically but culturally. The concept of the European Union was taking shape, and the Schengen Agreement, which would later allow for passport-free travel across much of Europe, was signed in 1985. Meanwhile, budget airlines were beginning to democratize air travel, making it easier for Northern and Western Europeans to flock to the sunny shores of Southern Europe every summer.
In this context, music became a shared experience that transcended language barriers. Northern & Western European tourists—especially those from Germany, the UK, Belgium and the Netherlands—would spend their holidays soaking up the sun in France, Italy, and Spain, where they were exposed to local hits like "Voyage Voyage." These songs, often played in beach clubs, discos, and bars, became the soundtrack to their vacations.
By the time these tourists returned home, they brought more than just suntans and souvenirs. They carried with them the music they’ve heard, leading to a surge in demand for these songs back in their home countries. This is how "Voyage Voyage," quickly spread to neighboring countries like Germany, where it topped the charts for weeks. It even reached as far as Scandinavia, where French pop had traditionally struggled to gain a foothold.
Would "Voyage Voyage" Have Been a Hit Without European Tourists?
It’s tempting to speculate that "Voyage Voyage" might never have achieved its pan-European success without the help of these sun-chasing tourists. After all, the song was entirely in French—a language not universally understood across Europe. While music videos and radio airplay certainly played a role, the organic spread of the song through tourism was crucial. In a sense, "Voyage Voyage" became a souvenir of the European summer, a reminder of carefree days.
This phenomenon wasn't unique to "Voyage Voyage." Throughout the 1980s, numerous French and Italian songs became summer anthems (see list below) across Europe, largely thanks to the same tourist-driven mechanism.
The Art of Crafting a Summer Hit: Was It All Intentional?
Given the success of these summer hits, one might wonder: Did French and Italian artists/producers deliberately target the summer season to increase their chances of success abroad? The answer is a resounding yes.
By the 1980s, many French and Italian producers were acutely aware of the commercial potential of the summer market. They recognized that the influx of tourists during the warmer months could turn a regional hit into a continental smash. As a result, they began to tailor their music to fit the expectations of the holiday crowd. Upbeat tempos, catchy hooks, and lyrics that evoked images of sun, sea, and romance became common features of these songs.
For example, "Voyage Voyage" was meticulously crafted to evoke a sense of wanderlust and adventure, key themes that resonated with the jet-setting tourists of the era. Jean-Michel Rivat, the producer, knew that the song needed to appeal not just to French listeners but to a broader European audience. He wanted to create something that felt universal, that could be enjoyed whether you were on a beach in France or a nightclub in Germany.
The Role of Dance Music in the Late 80s: Setting the Stage for "Voyage Voyage"
The late 1980s were a pivotal time for dance music in Europe. Electronic music was becoming increasingly popular, with genres like Italo disco and Eurobeat dominating the club scenes. These genres, characterized by their use of synthesizers, drum machines, and catchy melodies, were the perfect backdrop for songs like "Voyage Voyage."
Desireless’s track fit seamlessly into this landscape. Its synth-heavy production, combined with its dreamy vocals, made it a staple in European clubs. The 12-inch version of "Voyage Voyage," became a favorite among DJs, ensuring that the song was played in heavy rotation throughout the summer of 1987. A number of different remixes were made. Pete Waterman made a remix for the UK market (PWL Britmix).
The Broader Impact: Connecting the Dots Across the Continent
"Voyage Voyage" didn’t just benefit from the summer tourist circuit; it also contributed to the larger narrative of European dance music. At a time when the continent was moving towards greater integration, the song symbolized the cultural exchange that was happening on the ground. Music, like travel, was bringing Europeans closer together, creating a shared experience that transcended national boundaries.
In many ways, "Voyage Voyage" was ahead of its time. It predated the global dance music explosion of the 1990s, yet it hinted at the potential for a pan-European music scene.
what happens when you “electrify” your hairstyle before getting on stage ?
Conclusion: The Unseen Power of Tourism in Shaping the Soundtrack of Our Lives
So, would "Voyage Voyage" have become the hit it did without the help of European tourists? The answer is probably not. The song’s success was as much about timing and circumstance as it was about its musical qualities. By tapping into the experiences of sun-soaked holidays and the wanderlust of a generation, "Voyage Voyage" captured the essence of a European summer and, in doing so, became an anthem for a continent in flux.
Desireless today
In the end, the summer season’s ability to catapult songs onto the European charts was as calculated as the way American record companies leveraged nightclubs in the late '70s to create chart-toppers. But just like in the States, these hits rarely translated into long-term success. Desireless’s story is a perfect example. After "Voyage Voyage" became a global sensation, she spent nearly a year touring the world. However, her follow-up single, "John," took over a year to release. Despite being a solid track, it barely made waves outside French-speaking Europe. When CBS was acquired by Sony and the artist roster was reshuffled, her career ended as swiftly as it had begun.
This pattern was common for many summer hits. While a few artists managed to parlay their initial success into longer careers, most couldn’t sustain the pan-European momentum. The summer hit was a fast track to fame, but rarely to lasting stardom.
Some other examples (How many do you know ?) :
Ma Quala Idea (Pino D’Angio) 1981
Dolce Vita (Ryan Paris) 1983
Toute Première Fois (Jeanne Mas) 1984
Tarzan Boy (Baltimora) 1985
Ti Sento (Matia Bazar) 1986 (My absolute favorite)
Call Me (Spagna ) 1987
Nuit De Folie (Debut De Soirée) 1988
Lambada (Kaoma) 1989 : 😱
Call to Action: Your Turn to Share
What are your memories of "Voyage Voyage" ? Did you first hear it while on holiday, or did it make its way to you through other means? I’d love to hear your stories. Or maybe (for my American readers) you never heard any of the European summer hits 😃 (And you are glad you escaped that phenomenon ?). Feel free to share your impressions.
If you enjoyed this deep dive into the history of dance music, consider subscribing to "The Twelve Inch" for more stories that connect the dots between the songs, artists, and genres that shaped the soundtrack of our lives. Plus, don’t forget to check out this week’s Mixcloud mix, where you can relive the magic of "Voyage Voyage" alongside other summer hits from the era (some of the extra’s list are included)
“Pour la petite histoire” or, as we say in English “Fun Fact” 😁
You see “45t” and “maxi” on the cover. That is how the French speaking Europeans call a twelve inch. In fact it is the other way around a “Maxi Quarante Cinq Tours”.
Further reading (or should I say watching)
If you are interested in Italian music of the seventies & eighties, check out the Italian Disco Stories newsletter. Beppe & Angelica tell the stories of the Italian music scene.
There are a number of interesting video’s/links :
or you just feel like playing a bit on the beach after you’ve arrived at your destination
or if you are looking for a soundtrack for your sword & sandal movie…
So You Wanna Hear More ?
I thought you would !
It’s fun to write about music but let’s be honest. Music is made to listen to.
Every week, together with this newsletter, I release a 1 hour beatmix on Mixcloud and Soundcloud. I start with the discussed twelve inch and follow up with 10/15 songs from the same timeframe/genre. The ideal soundtrack for…. Well whatever you like to do when you listen to dance music.
So what’s in this week’s mix ?
As I was curating this week’s soundtrack, I couldn’t help but notice a delightful similarity to the classic 80’s sitcom Allo Allo—think cheeky innuendos & charming foreign accents. We’ve even got our own version of the iconic “Madonna with the big boobies” (Sabrina and “Boys”) and “Listen very carefully, I shall say this only once” :we also have royalty in the mix: Enter Princess Stéphanie of Monaco.
My favorite : agent Crabtree
For those who spent time in Europe or holidayed there in the eighties, many of these tracks will feel like a nostalgic trip down memory lane. If not, then you’re in for a wild discovery. But fair warning: this mix isn’t for the faint of heart. Summer hits, especially those holiday anthems, aren’t known for subtlety—clichés are served thick and fast.
But as they say, beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Whether these tunes bring a smile to your face or make you cringe, the challenge remains: are you brave enough to dive in? To borrow a phrase from Princess Stéphanie herself: ça passe ou ça casse (you love it or you hate it)
Enjoy !
Next week it’s back to the States and one of my favorite 70s rock bands and their 1978 song that embraced danceability in a perfect way.
What a great piece!!
Very interesting analysis, particularly the cultural implications. I love stories like this one which show how travel and cultural trends can have such a big impact on the music we hear.