Orelsan

Orelsan, whose real name is Aurélien Cotentin, is a French rapper, singer, songwriter, and actor. He is known for his sharp, witty lyrics, and his impactful contributions to the French hip-hop scene. Orelsan was born on August 1, 1982, in Alençon, France. He developed an interest in music at a young age and began writing rap lyrics during his teenage years.

 

In the mid-2000s, Orelsan formed a rap duo called Casseurs Flowters with fellow rapper Gringe (Guillaume Tranchant). They gained popularity with their humorous and satirical approach to rap music.

Orelsan’s solo career took off in 2008 when he released two viral videos, “St-Valentin” and “Changemant,” on the internet. These videos gained millions of views and introduced him to a wider audience.

In 2009, Orelsan faced controversy and legal challenges over his song “Sale Pute” (Dirty Bitch), which was criticized for its explicit and violent content towards women. Despite the controversy, he continued to make a mark in the French hip-hop scene.

The same year, he released his debut solo album, “Perdu d’avance,” which received critical acclaim and established him as a leading figure in French rap. The album’s success earned him several awards and nominations.

Orelsan’s subsequent albums, “Le Chant des Sirènes” (2011) and “La fête est finie” (2017), achieved commercial success and further solidified his status as one of the most influential and respected artists in French hip-hop.

Orelsan has received numerous awards throughout his career, including several Victoires de la Musique (the French equivalent of the Grammy Awards) and MTV Europe Music Awards.

His music often addresses social issues, personal struggles, and critiques of modern society, showcasing his skills as a lyricist and storyteller.