Michel Jonasz returns to the stage this spring, not with a collection of new songs, but a reimagining of his celebrated catalog. The veteran French singer-songwriter is embarking on his “Soul Tour,” bringing a fresh, rhythm and blues-infused energy to his most beloved hits. On Sunday, March 1st, he’ll be performing at Le Phare in Chambéry, offering fans a unique opportunity to experience his music in a new light.
Jonasz’s decision to revisit his past wasn’t born of creative stagnation, but rather a desire to connect with his audience in the most direct way possible. “For me, writing songs, composing them, recording them, all of that is to nourish the repertoire, because my goal is to be on stage,” he explained to ICI Pays de Savoie. He views the recording process as a means to an end – the live performance. “A record is the source of the next show that will take place,” he added.
A Return to Rhythm and Blues Roots
The “Soul Tour” represents a full-circle moment for Jonasz, whose musical journey began with a deep appreciation for American soul and blues. “The music that made me want to produce music is rock ‘n’ roll, it’s the blues,” he recalled. He specifically cited Ray Charles as a formative influence, the artist who first inspired him to approach the piano. This deep-seated love for the genre is now informing a new chapter in his career.
The idea to reinterpret his songs in a soul style wasn’t Jonasz’s own initial impulse. It was, he says, a suggestion from outside his immediate circle that sparked the project. With longtime collaborators Jean-Yves d’Angelo on keyboards and Manu Katché on drums, Jonasz began to deconstruct and rebuild his classics. “We gave them a particular color, a particular direction which is what we called soul,” he explained.
This isn’t simply adding a soulful veneer to existing arrangements. Jonasz emphasizes the depth of the transformation. The soul influence isn’t superficial; it’s woven into the incredibly fabric of the songs, breathing new life into familiar melodies and lyrics.
A Musical Partnership Spanning Four Decades
Central to the success of this project is the enduring musical partnership between Jonasz, d’Angelo, and Katché. The trio has been performing together for over forty years, a testament to their shared musical vision and deep respect for one another. “It’s been more than forty years that we’ve been making music together,” Jonasz noted.
While their individual paths have occasionally diverged, allowing each artist to explore other creative avenues, the connection has remained unbroken. “Music isn’t just about playing notes with instruments, no, there has to be that subtle link that unites people,” Jonasz said. That connection is palpable when they take the stage, creating an alchemy that transcends mere technical proficiency.
Jonasz believes that maintaining a sense of youthful energy is crucial to a compelling performance. “You have to be happy every time you go on stage, you have to be 18 years old,” he quipped, suggesting that a youthful spirit is the key to keeping the music fresh and engaging.
Fans attending the March 1st concert at Le Phare in Chambéry can expect a dynamic show featuring Jonasz’s signature vocals and insightful lyrics, now infused with the vibrant energy of soul and R&B. The performance is scheduled to initiate at 6:00 PM. Tickets and information are available on the Le Phare website.
The tour is supported by a full complement of talented musicians and backing vocalists, further enhancing the rich sonic landscape of the performance. A promotional video for the tour, offering a glimpse into the rehearsals and creative process, can be viewed here.
Following the Chambéry performance, Michel Jonasz will continue his “Soul Tour” across France, bringing his revitalized repertoire to audiences throughout the country. The tour is a testament to Jonasz’s enduring artistry and his commitment to connecting with his fans through the power of live music.
The next confirmed date on the tour is March 1st at Le Phare in Chambéry. For updates on future tour dates and other news, visit the official website of Le Phare Grand Chambéry.
What are your thoughts on Michel Jonasz’s new direction? Share your comments below and let us realize if you plan to attend a show on the “Soul Tour.”
