About “Félicie aussi”
“Félicie aussi” is an iconic Fernandel song released in 1939. Composed by Casimir Oberfeld and written by Albert Willemetz and Charles Louis Pothier, this humorous song wittily recounts a brief romantic escapade in “un coin du Bois de Boulogne”. Through its repetitive refrain and a narrative full of amusing mishaps, the piece captures the spirit of variety entertainment of the era. Fernandel reveals himself not only as an excellent singing comedian but also as a storyteller capable of evoking vivid images in the listener.
Key Points to Remember:
- Humorous 1939 song recounting a romantic adventure in the Bois de Boulogne punctuated by a repetitive refrain.
- Light satire of gallantry codes and Parisian social life through awkward moments and amusing situations.
- Immediate and lasting success, “Félicie aussi” stands as a classic of French comic variety.
Analysis and Meaning of “Félicie aussi”
General interpretation of the piece
Fernandel adopts a playful, almost theatrical tone to unfold the story of a gentleman in pursuit of seduction. The simple rhythm and verse-chorus structure reinforce the comedic nature of the narrative: each verse brings a new mishap, and the refrain “Félicie aussi” returns as an obsessive leitmotif. The humor relies on the juxtaposition between the simplicity of the text and increasingly comical situations, from the meeting to the misadventure at the hotel.
Beyond the farce, one can see a light satire of gallantry codes and Parisian high society life. The protagonist strings together awkward moments, whether a meal that is too heavy or a shabby room, without ever losing enthusiasm. The message is not moralizing; it rather invites laughter at oneself and the little surprises that spice up romantic life.
“Félicie aussi” on Spotify:
Analysis of the Lyrics of “Félicie aussi”
- “C’est dans un coin du bois d’Boulogne / Que j’ai rencontré Félicie / Elle arrivait de la Bourgogne / Et moi j’arrivai en taxi” (It was in a corner of the Bois de Boulogne / That I met Félicie / She was coming from Burgundy / And I arrived by taxi)
This opening sets a contrasting Parisian and provincial scene. The light tone of the meeting is reinforced by the opposition between Burgundy and the Bois de Boulogne, while the taxi emphasizes the urban nature of the rendezvous. - “Il faisait un temps superbe / Je me suis assis sur l’herbe / Félicie aussi” (The weather was splendid / I sat down on the grass / Félicie too)
The minimalist refrain, through its repetition, creates an immediate rapport with the listener. The bucolic image of sitting on the grass clashes with the phrase “Félicie aussi”, which, by its systematic use, gradually becomes the true star of the narrative. - “Je l’emmenai dîner chez Chartier / Comme elle est fine et délicate / Elle prit un pied d’cochon grillé / Et pendant qu’elle mangeait le sien / J’lui fis du pied avec le mien” (I took her to dinner at Chartier’s / Since she is refined and delicate / She took a grilled pig’s trotter / And while she ate hers / I nudged her with my toe)
The dinner anecdote at Chartier’s blends the supposed elegance of the lady with the vulgarity of a pig’s trotter. The wordplay between the menu and physical contact adds a touch of bawdiness, typical of Fernandel’s comedic style.
Analysis of the Clip
Here is an INA (Institut National de l’Audiovisuel) archive of the song. It features the French singer dressed in a fine suit performing before an audience receptive to the humorous aspect of the song.
The clip highlights Fernandel’s expressive acting, with exaggerated facial expressions and his radiant face. The black and white ambiance, completed by simple sets, evokes the atmosphere of musical revues from the late 1930s. Each new verse reinforces this theme of love-driven blindness, until the final outcome always tinged with wholesome humor. At the very end, the audience shouts “Encore! Encore!” (Again! Again!) for the enjoyment to continue.
Technical Details
- Date of release: 1939
- Album: Single
- Related songs: “La Gavotte du Pays d’Oc”, “Le Tango du Démon”
- Musical genre: Humorous song/pop song
- Writer(s): Albert Willemetz, Charles Louis Pothier
- Composer(s): Casimir Oberfeld
- Producer(s): Columbia Records
- Label/distribution: Columbia Records
- Title translation: “Félicie too”
Impact and Reception
Upon its release, “Félicie aussi” achieved immediate success, propelling Fernandel to the top of the most popular French artists. The public quickly embraced the catchy refrain and the amusing mishaps, making this song a favorite in revues and cafe concerts.
Over the decades, the piece has become a classic of French variety, covered by many performers in tribute to Fernandel. Its timeless humor and simple melody continue to charm new generations, placing it among the most iconic works of the comic repertoire.
Conclusion of the Song
“Félicie aussi” is both a musical sketch and a delightful satirical gem. Fernandel plays his role as a clumsy seducer with jubilant energy, while paying homage to the codes of Parisian high society. The secret of this hit lies in the alchemy of simple lyrics, a repetitive melody, and a mischievous spirit that brings a smile from the very first notes.
To extend your discovery, explore our selection of famous French songs. Feel free to share your own interpretation of “Félicie aussi” in the comments!