Daho is best known in Britain for his appearence on the number 11 Saint Etienne hit single "He's On The Phone", which is an English-language adaptation of his 1984 French-language hit "Weekend à Rome". He also collaborated with Saint Etienne on the Resurrection EP, his album Eden, and his single "Le Premier Jour", itself based on the track "Ready or Not" from Sarah Cracknell's 1997 solo album "Lipslide".
He has worked with many other artists, such as Chris Isaak, Marianne Faithfull, Elli Medeiros, Astrud Gilberto, Vanessa Daou, the Swingle Singers, and more. His duet with Charlotte Gainsbourg, titled "If", was released in 2004.
His 1996 album Eden featured a mix of electronic-oriented songs, ranging from downtempo ballads to drum 'n' bass-influenced tracks, and HiNRG dance. Corps & armes (2000) saw Daho return to a more orchestral sound fuelled by traditional instruments, such as piano, acoustic guitar, and horns. In 2004, he released Réévolution, which featured a guitar-heavy rock sound.
In 2012, he produced and composed songs for French comedian/singer Lou Doillon for her first album Places.
Étienne Daho is one of the most influential French pop singers of the last four decades. His extensive work has seen him collaborate with many artists, and explore a wide range of musical styles.
La Ballade D'Edie S
Étienne Daho Lyrics
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De blanc se pare
Pour un rendez-vous nulle part
Edie se glace
Si grand, ce lit à deux places
Edie s'y glisse
Et voyage en première place
Toutes ces photos déchirées
Dans la chambre allumée
C'est un désordre qui ressemble
À un départ
Edie s'efface
Edie s'efface
Des lettres éparpillées
Dans la chambre allumée
C'est un désordre qui ressemble
À un départ
Edie s'endort
Tout en serrant très, très fort
Contre sa joue
Un souvenir de Corfou
C'est un silence qui ressemble
À un départ
Dedi-dedicated to baby
Edie, dedicated to Edie S.
Dedi-dedicated to baby
Edie, dedicated to Edie S.
Dedi-dedicated to baby
Edie, dedicated to Edie S.
Dedi-dedicated to baby
Edie, dedicated to Edie S.
In the song "La Ballade D'Edie S." by Étienne Daho, the lyrics depict a sense of melancholy and longing that surround the character of Edie S. The opening lines "Edie se lasse et traverse le miroir, De blanc se pare, Pour un rendez-vous nulle part" suggest that Edie is feeling tired and perhaps disillusioned as she dresses up in white for a meeting that leads nowhere. This could portray a feeling of emptiness or a lack of direction in her life.
The following lines describe Edie entering a large bed for two, possibly symbolizing a sense of loneliness or isolation despite the seemingly intimate setting. As she lies in the bed, the lyrics mention that she travels in first class, which could symbolize her desire for something better or more fulfilling in her life. This contrast between the grandeur of first class and the emptiness she feels adds depth to the emotional complexity of the song.
The mention of torn photographs scattered in the room, creating a messy atmosphere that resembles a departure, further adds to the theme of separation and letting go. The repetition of the phrase "Edie s'efface" (Edie fades away) reinforces the idea that Edie is gradually disappearing or distancing herself from her surroundings, perhaps as a way of coping with her emotions.
The song concludes with Edie falling asleep while holding tightly to a memory of Corfu, hinting at a bittersweet nostalgia and the comfort she seeks in memories of the past. The overall tone of the song conveys a sense of resignation and acceptance of a new chapter or a fresh start, represented by the silence that resembles a departure. The repetitive chorus dedicated to Edie S. underscores her significance in the narrative and emphasizes the emotional weight of her story. Overall, the song captures a poignant and reflective moment in Edie's journey, exploring themes of loss, nostalgia, and the search for personal fulfillment.
Lyrics © Downtown Music Publishing
Written by: Etienne Daho, Arnold Turboust
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind