Here is the complete demo of the French cover I have done recently, Ma Préférence by Julien Clerc. I wouldn't say that his style of music is very close to mine, but this is a brilliant song and I intend to make it part of my performing repertoire - I love the harmonic changes and the message. I am also translating it into English and Russian.
I added an intro from a classic French film (can you guess which one?) Hint: Gerard Depardieu is in it. Although, fair to say he is in almost EVERY French film of the recent 40 years. That man gets around.
Here is the translation, as promised. This is a very literal one because I didn't try to write something here that would be more poetic.. yet.. as in real lyrics, so it doesn't flow well at all, but it is good enough to get an idea. The actual translated lyrics, as I hear them in my head, would carry the message across, but would not be the same words...
I love this song and its basic concept that sometimes, contrary to popular thought, others do not necessarily see better or are able to judge more accurately when it comes to our own lives and who we want in them. Sometimes it's best to withhold judgment, because there may be something there we do not see or would not value for ourselves, and yet it is everything to another person.
The original of the song is about her. When I did the cover, I switched it to him, and I think it makes it almost even more poignant.
I know that you don't approve of him
and his way of showing that he belongs to me
you fall silent around us
and yet, I choose him
Yes, I know - this air of indifference that's his defence
It often offends you
But when we are surrounded by my friends made of porcelain
I know where his failure lies.
Yes I know - you don't believe that I can be faithful to him
and you are already speaking of him in past tense
But he really is what I want.
You should believe me when I say
that I am the only one who can tell when he is cold
he only has eyes for me
and incidentally, he loves my uncertainty
while I love his solitude.
I know that you don't approve of him
and his way of showing that he belongs to me
you fall silent around us
and yet - he is my lucky charm
I choose him.
He is what I want.
Thank you so much for this translation. I looked all over the internet and your translation is the only good one. It would be great to make it more accessible! :) Thank you!
Posted by: Annelene Decaux | 08/15/2012 at 09:04 PM
I love this song when Julien Clerc is singing it, I love it even more when I listen to it on your blog. When will you publish it on Itunes or on a CD ? I want to have it whenever and wherever I am !
You're great, great voice, great fantasy !
I want to see you live !
Posted by: Aline | 10/15/2012 at 01:24 PM