Live cover

Released 40 years ago

Live

Serge Gainsbourg · 1986

73 min · 19 tracks · funk

A daring blend of provocative lyrics and eclectic musical styles, showcasing Gainsbourg's bold artistry in a live setting.

Top tracks — play these first

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    Love on the Beat Start here — The opening track sets the tone with an infectious groove and bold lyrics that exemplify Gainsbourg's provocative style.
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    Initials B.B. — This song stands out for its catchy melody and autobiographical references, showcasing Gainsbourg's knack for intertwining personal narrative with broader cultural themes.
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    Lemon Incest (extrait) — Even in its brief form, this track highlights the controversial nature of Gainsbourg’s work and his ability to challenge societal norms through music.
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    Bonnie and Clyde — The duet with Brigitte Bardot is a timeless classic that captures the essence of their tumultuous relationship while embodying a cinematic quality in its storytelling.
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    Harley Davidson — This track blends playful lyrics with a laid-back vibe, representing Gainsbourg's ability to mix humor with sensuality effectively.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • dynamic journey with emotional peaks
  • sensual atmosphere for intimate settings
  • thought-provoking commentary on societal themes
  • engaging live energy and charisma
  • wave-like pacing inviting reflection

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer instant gratification tracks
  • avoid lengthy, immersive experiences

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Fan Favorite — Captures Gainsbourg's complex persona and is appreciated by dedicated fans.
Themes
provocative love stories· Parisian nightlife· cultural rebellion
Career context
Released in 1986, Live captures Serge Gainsbourg during a period of artistic resurgence following the controversial success of his earlier works. This album came after his 1984 release, You're Under Arrest, which marked a transition towards more experimental sounds and themes. By this time, Gainsbourg was an established icon in French pop culture, known for pushing boundaries.
Stylistic neighbors
Françoise Hardy· Jacques Brel· Jane Birkin

Tracklist

  • 1 Love on the Beat Start here 10:16
  • 2 Initials B.B. 3:03
  • 3 Harley Davidson 2:48
  • 4 Sorry Angel 4:31
  • 5 Nazi Rock 3:32
  • 6 Ballade de Johnny‐Jane 2:56
  • 7 Bonnie and Clyde 5:00
  • 8 Vieille Canaille 2:57
  • 9 I’m the Boy 6:29
  • 10 Dépression au‐dessus du jardin 2:22
  • 11 Lemon Incest (extrait) 1:15
  • 12 Mickey maousse 1:09
  • 13 My Lady Heroine 3:15
  • 14 Je suis venu te dire que je m’en vais 3:22
  • 15 L’Eau à la bouche 3:05
  • 16 Lola Rastaquouère 3:32
  • 17 Marilou sous la neige 3:01
  • 18 Harley David Son of a Bitch 6:20
  • 19 La Javanaise 4:08

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata