Santa, the lead singer of the group Hyphen Hyphen, recently released her debut solo studio album, “Recommence-moi,” on May 24th. The album quickly climbed to the third spot on the best-seller list, much to Santa’s delight. Speaking to 20 Minutes at her favorite terrace near the Buttes Chaumont in Paris, Santa couldn’t hide her happiness at the album’s success. The path to creating this album was not easy, as Santa had tied its release to the success of her hit song “Popcorn salé,” which took time to gain popularity. Now certified diamond, the song’s gradual rise to fame taught Santa the value of patience in a world that often prioritizes instant gratification.
When asked about her decision to explore French variety music with this album, Santa admitted that the songs came to her almost effortlessly, like a form of automatic writing. She credits her friends in the band for encouraging her to pursue this new direction. Despite facing doubts and naysayers in the past, Santa has always been driven by a strong sense of determination and self-belief.
Comparisons to iconic French artists such as Véronique Sanson, Daniel Balavoine, and Céline Dion do not faze Santa; instead, she sees it as a compliment to be mentioned alongside such legends. As she navigates the challenges of promoting her album and planning for future tours, Santa remains focused on delivering a unique and visually captivating live show that reflects her artistic vision.
Drawing inspiration from surrealism and visual arts, Santa incorporates elements of poetry and pop culture into her music and performances. She finds beauty in the ordinary and seeks to create a sensory experience for her audience that goes beyond just the music. Through songs like “Eva,” Santa shares personal stories and emotions, inviting listeners to connect with their own experiences and interpretations.
The heartfelt reactions from fans and journalists to her music have touched Santa deeply, reinforcing her belief in the power of music to evoke intimate emotions and create meaningful connections. As she prepares for upcoming summer festivals and dreams of a successful tour, Santa remains committed to pushing boundaries and leaving a lasting impression on her audience.
While the prospect of representing France at Eurovision intrigues her, Santa acknowledges the complexities of such competitions and the need for a strong, distinctive musical identity before taking on such a challenge. As a proud French artist and advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights, Santa encourages individuals to embrace their differences, resist division, and stand up against injustice and inequality.
As Pride month approaches, Santa’s message of empowerment and resilience resonates with the LGBTQIA+ community, inspiring individuals to celebrate their identities with pride and courage. By staying true to herself and her artistic vision, Santa continues to make a difference through her music and advocacy, embodying the spirit of authenticity and inclusivity.