With “Focus”, released in 2024, KeBlack delivered one of the most remarkable comebacks in recent French urban music history. After a quieter period in the spotlight, the singer and rapper returned to the top with impressive ease, earning a Gold certification in just four months before eventually reaching Platinum status. Meanwhile, Franglish, despite remaining highly discreet about his personal life, continues his steady rise and has firmly established himself as one of the leading figures in French-speaking urban music.
After years of occasional collaborations, natural artistic chemistry, and shared successes, the two artists are now preparing to take things to the next level with a joint project. Titled “Energy”, the album is set for release on June 19. Long popular in the United States, collaborative albums have gradually become a staple of French rap. Notable examples include “Horizon Vertical” by Heuss L’Enfoiré and Vald, the joint project from Ninho and Niska, as well as the hard-hitting collaboration between Kalash Criminel and Kaaris.
Another particularly intriguing aspect of the project is its production team. Every track brings together two of the most influential producers of their generation. On one side is Zeg P, affiliated with Affranchis Music and a longtime collaborator of Heuss L’Enfoiré. On the other is Seezy, the renowned sonic architect and longtime producer behind Vald‘s signature sound. Together, they promise an album with a strong musical identity, balancing commercial appeal with artistic ambition.
KeBlack and Franglish have already unveiled the visual for “La Porte”, the first single introducing the world of “Energy”. Representing a new generation of urban artists focused more on melodies, uplifting vibes, and infectious rhythms than on endless displays of ego, the duo could very well deliver some of this summer’s defining soundtracks.
KeBlack and Franglish unveil “La Porte” to kick off the “Energy” era
The track’s instrumental was produced by Shuriken and Takeshi-San. A multi-platinum producer and a major force within the French music scene, Shuriken has recently contributed to several major releases, including “Scintiller” by Liim’s, “Collabo” by Ninho and Niska, and “Quillé” by Naza and Ninho. As for Takeshi-San, he has helped shape Franglish‘s musical identity for years, producing tracks such as “La Calle” and “Biberon”.
Driven by strong Afrobeat and Afro-pop influences, “La Porte” sits comfortably within the musical lane where both artists have thrived throughout their careers. Combining catchy melodies, danceable rhythms, and contemporary African influences, the song perfectly captures the ingredients that have fueled their respective success stories and widespread appeal.
Lyrically, KeBlack and Franglish tackle romantic relationships with the light-heartedness, humor, and self-awareness that have become trademarks of their songwriting:
“Arguments and drama, I’ll end up alone (alone), there’s no love left, I don’t care anymore (I don’t care)
It’s over, I’m leaving, I’ve done too much for us
‘You miss him,’ that’s what time will eventually say (of course)”
Shot in a sun-soaked desert landscape, the music video places both artists in a festive and carefree setting that perfectly matches the song’s energy. The visual was directed by Tamarra El Attar, a filmmaker known for ambitious urban productions. He previously collaborated with Victor Grenu on “GOAT”, the track bringing together Pit Baccardi and Dosseh, which portrayed the family legacy of two iconic figures in French rap.
