On January 26, 1986, French humorist Coluche, who had set up Les Restos du Cœur a few months earlier, invited a number of artists and public figures to appear on television as a promotional move. The band, whose line-up was never the same, was dubbed "Les Enfoirés" in reference to one of Coluche's catchwords. After Coluche died in a motorbike accident (June 19, 1986) his widow, Véronique Colucci, called on those who had participated to continue his actions, and the band was revived for a further television show. The concept has since evolved into an annual concert, bringing together up to forty artists and celebrities from various backgrounds. The funds raised by the concerts and derived records under the name "Enfoirés" are donated to Les Restos du Cœur.
One of the key features of Les Enfoirés is "La Chanson des Enfoirés", a song which became a sort of hymn to the charity, written by Jean-Jacques Goldman, a long-time supporter of the organisation.
Oh les filles
Les Enfoirés Lyrics
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Et malheureusement j'en fais partie
Elles sont trop hésitantes, les filles d'aujourd'hui
Elles savent pas ce qu'elles veulent
Elles savent pas dire "oui"
Les gens de mon temps s'enlassent
Et de ce temps, les gens se lassent
Au moment de la préface
On s'rend débiles d'amour un temps
On se défile pourtant
Avant d'écrire le jour suivant
Mais volant de ville en ville
Vivons-nous vraiment?
Mais volant de ville en ville
Vivons-nous vraiment?
Elles sont déroutantes, les filles d'aujourd'hui
Un petit tour d'amour et puis s'enfuient
Si elles suivent le vent, les filles d'aujourd'hui
Sais-tu que les garçons le font aussi? Oui
Les gens de mon temps s'embrassent
Avant qu'ils ne se remplacent
Tout se détend, se détache
Au moment de la préface
On s'rend débiles d'amour un temps
On se défile pourtant
Avant d'écrire le jour suivant
Mais volant de ville en ville
Vivons-nous vraiment?
Mais volant de ville en ville
Vivons-nous vraiment?
Les gens de mon temps s'agacent
Quand d'autres gens les remplacent
Et si on posait nos traces
Au-delà de la préface?
On s'rend débiles d'amour un temps
On se défile pourtant
Avant d'écrire le jour suivant
Mais volant de ville en ville
Vivons-nous vraiment?
Mais volant de ville en ville
Vivons-nous vraiment?
Mais volant de ville en ville
Vivons-nous vraiment?
Mais volant de ville en ville
Vivons-nous vraiment?
Mais volant de ville en ville
Vivons-nous vraiment?
Mais volant de ville en ville
Vivons-nous vraiment?
Mais volant de ville en ville
Vivons-nous vraiment?
The lyrics of Les Enfoirés's song "Oh les filles" delve into a contemplation of the complexities and uncertainties surrounding modern relationships, particularly those involving women. The opening verses express frustration towards the behavior of today's girls, acknowledging the singer's own inclusion in this group. The portrayal of these girls as indecisive and unable to articulate their desires reflects a broader commentary on the challenges of communication and understanding in romantic interactions.
As the lyrics progress, there is a nostalgic reflection on past generations and their attitudes towards love and commitment. The contrast between the past and present is emphasized through the imagery of people growing tired and disillusioned with the passage of time. The mention of "s'efface" (to fade away) and "préface" (preface) suggests a sense of fleeting moments and missed opportunities in relationships.
The lyrics also touch upon the transient nature of love and the human tendency to flee from emotional vulnerability. The notion of moving from city to city metaphorically represents a continuous search for fulfillment and purpose, raising the existential question of whether individuals are truly experiencing life to its fullest extent. The repetition of the line "Vivons-nous vraiment?" (Are we truly living?) underscores this introspective exploration of existence amid the whirlwind of modern relationships.
Furthermore, the song delves into the gender dynamics of contemporary society, acknowledging that both girls and boys exhibit similar behaviors in matters of the heart. The acknowledgment that girls are enigmatic and prone to chasing fleeting moments of love echoes the overarching theme of uncertainty and transience in relationships. By questioning whether individuals are truly living amidst the cycle of fleeting encounters and emotional evasions, the lyrics prompt introspection on the nature of human connection and fulfillment in a fast-paced, ever-changing world.
Lyrics © EL EDITIONS, Universal Music Publishing Group, LILI LOUISE MUSIQUE, JOYCE JONATHAN, Peermusic Publishing, FRENCH FLAIR ENTERTAINMENT, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Joyce Jonathan, Vianney Bureau
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind