Tropical Lights' Anthem: Nearly Nonexistent Origin Story of Gilbert Montagné's Popular Song
In the world of French music, Gilbert Montagné's name is synonymous with the summer vibe of the mid-1980s. One of his most iconic songs, "Les Sunlights des Tropiques", remains a hallmark of his career and a staple in his concerts for 40 years.
Originally, "Les Sunlights des Tropiques" was not intended for Montagné's 1985 album. It was merely a sketch during the recording process. However, the song's potential as a summer hit and Montagné's creative decision to include it at the last minute transformed it into a significant part of his discography.
The story of its inclusion in the album remains somewhat elusive, with no authoritative account or detailed story documented in the available sources. For a more comprehensive understanding, one might need to delve into specialized biographies, interviews, or archives related to Montagné.
The song's lyrics, penned by Didier Barbelivien, feature geographical references that are somewhat approximate. The cities of Cuba and Manila, while evoking a tropical atmosphere, are located in different hemispheres. This geographical inaccuracy did not concern Montagné as long as the song sounded good.
Barbelivien was asked to write the lyrics for "Les Sunlights des Tropiques" in a short time and during the night. The song was still a work in progress on the last day of studio recording, and Montagné, inspired by the composition, decided to include it in the album.
The song's popularity has endured the test of time, with Jessy Matador finding it challenging to cover the classic due to his respect for the original. The Tropical Family collective even reprised "Sunlights" in a choral version in 2013.
At Montagné's concerts, "Les Sunlights des Tropiques" is a crowd favourite, contributing to the heated atmosphere that leaves the audience applauding and eager for more. A spectator described Montagné as "fantastic, very human and close to the public."
In the digital age, the song has gained popularity on social networks, with a young girl commenting on its enduring appeal. It remains a popular choice for dance floors, weddings, and end-of-night gatherings, ensuring that the tropical atmosphere Montagné creates at the end of his concerts continues to resonate with audiences.
The unexpected inclusion of "Les Sunlights des Tropiques" in Gilbert Montagné's 1985 album transformed the song into a significant part of his discography, becoming a timeless symbol of French music and pop-culture. In the digital era, this popular summer hit continues to captivate crowds and remains a staple in entertainment, resonating on dance floors, weddings, and social networks alike.
