“Tout Oublier” is one of the most iconic songs by Belgian singer-songwriter Angèle, featuring her brother, rapper Roméo Elvis. Released on October 5, 2018, as part of her debut album Brol, the track quickly gained traction, topping the French Singles Chart for nine consecutive weeks—a rare achievement for a Belgian artist.
The song was written by Angèle, Roméo Elvis, and Tristan Salvati, with Salvati also serving as the producer. Its combination of melancholic themes and an ironically cheerful melody helped it stand out, making it one of the most-streamed French-language songs of 2018.
The song explore themes of societal pressure to be happy and the paradox of feeling sad despite having everything one could want. This contrast, combined with Angèle’s soft vocals and Roméo Elvis’s rhythmic rap flow, made the song resonate deeply with audiences.
2. History of Angèle and the Making of “Tout Oublier”
Angèle Van Laeken, known professionally as Angèle, is a Belgian singer-songwriter who quickly rose to fame with her debut album Brol. Born into a creative family—her father is a singer, and her mother is an actress—Angèle grew up surrounded by music.
Before releasing Brol, Angèle gained attention through Instagram covers and humorous videos, where she showcased her wit and talent. Her breakout single “La Loi de Murphy” in 2017 set the stage for her rise, but it was Brol that cemented her as one of the most influential pop artists in France and Belgium.
“Tout Oublier” was particularly special because it featured her older brother, Roméo Elvis, a well-established Belgian rapper. Their collaboration added a unique sibling dynamic to the song, making it both playful and introspective.
The track’s lyrics critique the modern obsession with happiness, questioning why people feel pressured to always appear joyful. This deep yet accessible message, wrapped in a catchy melody, made “Tout Oublier” a defining song of Angèle’s career.
3. On the Videoclip: A Playful Take on a Heavy Theme
The music video for “Tout Oublier” was released on October 15, 2018, and was directed by Brice VDH, a frequent collaborator of Angèle. The video was filmed in a snowy, surreal beach setting, emphasizing the song’s theme of contradictions—summer outfits in winter landscapes visually mirror the song’s ironic contrast between sad lyrics and an upbeat tune.
In the video, Angèle and Roméo Elvis appear in ski gear while dancing on the beach, adding a touch of humor and absurdity. Their exaggerated expressions and synchronized movements highlight the idea of forced happiness, reinforcing the song’s message.
The video became an instant success, accumulating over 100 million views on YouTube, and further solidified Angèle’s reputation for blending visual artistry with deep storytelling.
4. Talk Nerdy to Me: The Music Theory Behind “Tout Oublier”
“Tout Oublier” stands out musically due to its unexpected mix of sadness and energy. Here are some intriguing aspects of its composition:
- Key: The song is in D♭ Major, a warm and rich key often associated with nostalgia and longing.
- Chord Progression: The main chord sequence (I – vi – IV – V) is common in pop music but feels fresh due to Angèle’s light vocal delivery and the syncopated rhythm.
- Beat & Tempo: With a bouncy 115 BPM, the track has a groove similar to reggaeton, making it danceable despite its introspective lyrics.
- Vocal Harmonies: Angèle’s airy vocals contrast with Roméo Elvis’s rhythmic, deeper rap, creating a dynamic push-and-pull effect.
- Melodic Simplicity: The melody is easy to hum yet emotionally impactful, a characteristic often found in hit songs that stick with listeners.
This unique fusion of melancholic themes with a joyful beat is a signature of Angèle’s songwriting style, making “Tout Oublier” an unforgettable hit.
5. More from Angèle: Songs, Albums, and Must-Watch Videos
If you loved “Tout Oublier,” here are more Angèle songs and content you should check out:
Other Popular Songs by Angèle
- “Balance Ton Quoi” – A feminist anthem with sharp lyrics and a catchy beat.
- “Flou” – A more introspective song about fame and self-doubt.
- “Bruxelles Je T’aime” – A love letter to her hometown, mixing nostalgia with electro-pop vibes.
Album
“Tout Oublier” is a defining song in Angèle’s career, perfectly encapsulating her ability to mix meaningful lyrics with catchy pop melodies. Her collaboration with Roméo Elvis added a playful sibling energy that made the song even more memorable.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering her music, Angèle’s unique style and storytelling make her one of the most exciting artists in modern French pop.
