This weekend's video entertainment is from France. Way back in 1971, Pop star Sheila had a #1 hit called Les Rois Mages, which translates to "The Wise Kings", a blend of the Three Kings (as in "Of Orient Are") and the Three Wise Men. I don't know if French Catholicism formally combines the two groups, but here they are.
The song is surprising, given it's Euro-origins, for both its unabashed Christian imagery and it's exaltation of America. Sure, an important segment of French pop music has for decades imitated American trends, usually quite badly. And, this was a time when French and Israeli singers sang and hobnobbed in clubs in Teheran, Iran -- things have changed, haven't they? -- but still. A French woman citing America as analogous to "biblical light" and "cosmic truth"?
In Les Rois Mages, Sheila compares herself to both the Wise Men and to Christopher Columbus, relentlessly following destiny, which in her case is to be with her loved one. Hey, it's pop.
Partial translation:
As the Wise Men, in Galilee, followed with their eyes the star over the manger, I will follow you. Where you go, I will go, like a faithful shadow, to the final destination. Like Christopher Columbus and his three caravels obstinantly followed the sun. My America, my biblical light, my cosmic truth, is to live with you.
Keeping in classic French imitate-America-badly tradition, this video has a Brady Bunch on drugs feel to it -- her eyes are just a little too alert -- the arthritic robot clapping is goofy, and I keep expecting Scooby Doo to pop out from behind one of those rugs.
Sweet song, though. Enjoy!
