The annual music festival organized by the magazine “Les Inrocks” will take place from March 10 to 14, 2026. This year’s festivities are special as they coincide with the magazine’s 40th anniversary. The event will celebrate 40 years of creation and French music with a show titled “French Pop,” under the direction of saxophonist and producer Adrien Soleiman. RFI: What does the magazine represent for you, as the artistic director of the French Pop creation at the Inrocks festival this year? Adrien Soleiman: For me, it brings back memories of holidays where I used to buy “Les Inrocks” when I had to take the train or plane. It served as reading material to pass the time. I studied music with a focus on jazz, so I used to buy “Jazz Mag” or “Jazz News” at the time. I was also a finalist in the “Inrocks Lab” competition created by the magazine in 2014, which kickstarted my career in the music industry. So, that’s the memory I treasure. “Les Inrocks” also represents a certain idea of music. What type of music? It’s a kind of pop music, independent, sophisticated, with soul and flair. It’s hard to define the aura of “Les Inrocks,” but I would describe it as indie and quality music. In previous interviews, you mentioned that you see music as a form of sharing, among friends. The guests at your creation seem to confirm this idea. Philippe Katerine, Juliette Armanet, Barbara Carlotti… Indeed, three-quarters of the guests were part of my project “BelleJazzClub.” They are long-time friends and my brother. I always try to work with people I respect and get along with. It’s important to communicate effectively and be efficient in this kind of context. These individuals are not only great musicians but also have a strong personality. Miossec once told me during a rehearsal, “It’s good because it’s not mainstream.” I believe in creating music that is not just smooth arrangements to please everyone. This is why I was approached for this project. You often work with the same people. How do you keep things fresh and avoid feeling like you’re going in circles? I never think of going in circles; that would be sad. This job allows us to avoid routine and experience different things, even with the same people. Some of the festival’s guests, such as Philippe Katerine or Dominique A, represent the early days of “Les Inrocks.” You arrived twenty years later, and now a new generation of musicians is emerging. What is your view on the state of French music today? I look at it with curiosity. As a musician, it is essential to stay informed and keep up with the latest trends. Whether we like it or not, exploring new styles enriches us and helps us grow. In my opinion, the new music scene is fantastic. I don’t see any decline; on the contrary, it seems more creative, independent, and proud. I believe it is heading in the right direction.
