On April 12, 1998, KLR, a prominent member of the Saïan Supa Crew, tragically lost his life in a car accident. By the end of 1999, the legendary group paid tribute to him in their eponymous album. This tribute album, titled “KLR”, also marked the rise to fame of this original rap group. It notably features the first hit of Saïan, “Raz de marée”, widely broadcasted on the radio. Additionally, it includes the famous track “Angela”, which stood the test of time before being covered by Hatik in “Chaise pliante I”, as well as a significant piece, “La preuve par 3”, a rap gem addressing racism from all angles.
Twenty-five years after the release of this project, the Saïan Supa Crew plans to hold a concert at the Olympia on November 25th to pay tribute to the most original group in French rap.
SAIAN SUPA CELEBRATION: A Group Apart!
Let’s recap: the late 90s are often regarded as the golden age of French rap, although some enlightened observers now speak of a new golden age. Several legendary rap groups shared the small rap market, although it was far from the most listened urban music. There were IAM and the Fonky Family in Marseille, as well as lesser-known artists like Freeman or DJ Kheops individually. NAP made waves in Eastern France, while the Mafia K’1 Fry and its members in the 94, NTM in the 93, and the Secteur Ä around Sarcelles contributed to the French rap exception. Although French rap was very different from what was done in the USA, especially in terms of text quality, many rappers talked about street life experiences, sometimes with a touch of social consciousness.
The Saïan Supa Crew revolutionized rap codes, both in substance and form. First, by introducing beatbox, an art form that has since been largely forgotten, with rapid sequences and a subtle touch of Gospel. Thematically, the Saïan sometimes addresses social issues such as religion in “Au nom de qui ?”, racism in “La preuve par 3”, or AIDS in “14.02.2002”, thus joining many rappers of the time. However, when they indulge in egotrip, their texts are often abstract and depart from street codes.
SAIAN SUPA CELEBRATION: Celebrating 25 Years of “KLR” at the Olympia!
Specta, Vicelow, Sly Johnson, and Sir Samuel will represent the group at the Olympia on November 25th, as well as in Toulouse on November 16th. Although two members will be missing, it’s an excellent opportunity to celebrate an original group that occupies a special place in French rap. Tickets are already available.
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