The 2024 Summer Olympics and Paralympics in Paris have concluded, leaving behind a wave of sporting achievements and cherished memories. But beyond the athletic triumphs, the Games also provided a vibrant and diverse soundtrack that captured the spirit of the event.
The tradition of releasing official Olympics albums has been dormant since the 2012 London Games, but Paris 2024 presents a perfect opportunity to revive this practice. The music of these Games, a blend of iconic classics and contemporary hits, deserves to be shared and celebrated long after the final medal has been awarded.
Two songs were officially selected as anthems for the Games: Victor le Masne’s ‘Parade,’ a modern classical composition with a pulsating house-inspired twist, and Gwen Stefani and Anderson .Paak’s ‘Hello World,’ a more generic but upbeat pop track.
The opening ceremony, held on the Seine River, was a historic and controversial affair. While some criticized its unconventional setting and subdued atmosphere, others praised its artistic vision and celebration of French culture. Musically, the ceremony showcased a stellar lineup, including Lady Gaga’s rendition of ‘Mon truc en plumes,’ Gojira’s groundbreaking performance of ‘Mea Culpa’ (a reimagined ‘Ça Ira’), and Aya Nakamura’s high-energy set.
The closing ceremony, equally impressive in its musical selection, featured Zaho de Sagazan’s ‘Sous le ciel de Paris,’ Phoenix’s iconic ‘Lisztomania,’ and a star-studded finale that included Angèle, Kavinsky, Air, VannDa, Ezra Koenig, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Billie Eilish, and Snoop Dogg. The event also included classic French hits like Joe Dassin’s ‘Les Champs-Elysées’ and Charles Aznavour’s ‘Emmenez-moi’, along with Divertimento Symphony Orchestra’s performance of Victor le Masne’s reworked ‘La Marseillaise.’
From the electrifying energy of ‘Parade’ to the poignant beauty of Céline Dion’s rendition of ‘Hymne à l’amour,’ the music of the Paris 2024 Olympics has provided a lasting legacy of musical moments. An official album would serve as a fitting tribute to the artistry, passion, and diversity that defined this unforgettable summer. It would also ensure that the soundtrack of the Paris 2024 Games continues to resonate long after the echoes of the closing ceremony have faded.
