Gojira Makes History as First Metal Band to Perform at Paris 2024 Olympics Opening Ceremony

Gojira pays tribute to the French Revolution during the opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Credits: X/Claro Sports 2

The French band Gojira made history by becoming the first metal group to perform at the Olympic Games. During the opening of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, held on Friday, July 26, along the Seine River, the group delivered a performance that fused historical elements with a powerful musical spectacle.

The performance began when the members emerged from the walls of the Musée d’Orsay, recreating a scene from Les Misérables by Victor Hugo and evoking the French Revolution. At each window of the iconic building, several women portrayed Marie Antoinette, alluding to the historic beheading of the queen on October 14, 1793.

The French band made history at the opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games (REUTERS/Ricardo Moraes)

The staging included pyrotechnic effects and streamers, culminating in the final seconds with a dramatic simulation of the art gallery “burning in flames.” The death metal and progressive metal band was joined by opera singer Marina Viotti, creating a unique fusion of genres that symbolized the inclusive and diverse spirit of the ceremony.

Founded in 1996 under the name Godzilla, the band changed its name in 2000 due to copyright issues. With a stable lineup since then, Gojira consists of the Duplantier brothers (Joe on vocals and rhythm guitar, and Mario on drums), Christian Andreu on lead guitar, and Jean-Michel Labadie on bass.

Lady Gaga was the first artist to take the stage as part of the opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games
REUTERS/Amanda Perobelli

The sound of Gojira is characterized by its intensity, complexity, and technique. Their heavy, powerful riffs combine with catchy melodies and virtuosic solos, creating a unique listening experience. The lyrics of their songs often address themes related to politics, nature, the environment, spirituality, and philosophy.

The show was part of more than 200 delegations that boarded boats parading along the river, covering a route of 6 km between the Austerlitz Bridge and the Trocadéro. Athletes also paraded along this legendary river, passing by some of the most beautiful monuments in the capital, such as Notre-Dame de Paris, the Louvre, and the Eiffel Tower.

During the three-hour duration of the ceremony, other artists performed, including Lady Gaga, who sang “Mon truc en plumes” by French singer and dancer Zizi Jeanmaire. The 38-year-old American appeared surrounded by colorful dancers and feathers, wearing a striking outfit as she sang and danced on stages themed around the Parisian cabaret.

Some media report that other stars such as Céline Dion (who is currently in Paris), Philippe Katerine and Juliette Armanet may also be part of the show.