Instructions: Click on the lyric line you wish to learn and to jump to the video. The video will loop around the chosen lyric

Click on the button to listen to the spoken audio for each word. You can pause the video at anytime to listen to the spoken audio, or listen to both at the same time.

Early Life & Background

Stromae was born to a Rwandan father and a Belgian mother. His father was tragically killed during the 1994 Rwandan genocide, a theme that deeply influenced Stromae’s music, particularly in his hit song Papaoutai (which translates to “Papa, where are you?”).

He developed a passion for music at a young age, initially producing rap under the name “Opmaestro” before reversing it to “Stromae.” He studied film and audio production but left school to pursue his music career full-time.

Career Breakthrough

Stromae gained international fame with his 2009 hit Alors on danse, which topped charts across Europe. His 2013 album Racine Carrée (Square Root) solidified his status as a global music icon, blending hip-hop, electronic beats, and socially conscious lyrics. Papaoutai, one of the standout tracks from the album, became an international anthem, dealing with themes of fatherhood and abandonment.

His music is known for its poetic and introspective lyrics combined with catchy yet melancholic melodies, tackling deep themes like loneliness, identity, and social issues.

Hiatus & Return

After the success of Racine Carrée, Stromae stepped away from the music industry, citing health concerns and the pressures of fame. However, he returned in 2022 with his album Multitude, which showcased his evolved style and continued storytelling prowess.

Legacy & Influence

Stromae is regarded as one of the most innovative musicians of his generation. His music blends French chanson, African rhythms, and electronic beats, while his lyrics explore deeply personal and social themes. His artistic vision extends beyond music, influencing fashion and film with his unique aesthetic.