YELLE Likes Boys in Tight Jeans & Makeup
The French Singer Spills Her Secrets
25-year-old electro-pop rapper, YELLE–- who outfits herself in neon spandex and looks like she materialized out of an '80s workout video–- is one of the most colorful artists to come out of France lately. Thanks to her risqué choice of devoting her breakthrough track “Je veux te voir” to a fellow Parisian rapper (Cuiziner from hip-hop crew TTC) and his allegedly short male member, YELLE has since blasted into indie stardom with songs about why boys drive her mad (“A Cause des Garcons”) and dispensing useful dance steps in "Jogging." No worry that you probably won’t understand a word she’s saying. Her beats will leave you hypnotized, and you can pick up a French dictionary for five dollars in a bookstore.Having previously opened for European sensation Mika last fall, YELLE is breaking out on her own this summer for a worldwide tour of solo shows and music festivals. Before jetting off to her next destination in Toulouse–- for Festival Electro Alternativ (June 6)-– psychoPEDIA met up with her to find out more about her views on dating, makeup, and misconceptions:
How do you feel about interracial dating?In 2008 interracial dating is normal. I come from a free generation that doesn’t care about colors or lifestyle. I just want to be free and choose a black boyfriend, or an Indian girlfriend if I want.
What are your views on gay marriage?
I’m totally for gay marriage. And adoption, too.
Do you think people are born gay, or that it's a personal choice?
I don’t know and don’t care about it! The most important thing is love, love, love…
What would you do if your boyfriend decided to wear a dash of eyeliner or a bit of blush?
Sometimes it’s nice. I need to get mine to try it.
What do you think of guys wearing leggings? Sometimes there are no differences between leggings and slim jeans, but I like that. It’s sexy.
How come lesbians get a much sweeter deal than gay guys?
I don’t think it’s easier for either, because sometimes families and society makes it hard for both of them.
If you could be Prime Minister for one day, what changes would you make to your country?
I’d vote for a law to fire our president.
What's last thing that got you so angry you wanted to scream?
It was many months ago, during a show. A guy was screaming things at me like, “Bitch! and ‘’Get naked!” I was very upset because he was drunk, and he left the show just before the end-- coward.
Why do you think so many people have the misconception that white people can't dance?
A Belgian guy called James Deano did a song where he talked about that. I think it’s a legend.
What's a dance step you like to do on stage?
My favorite dance move is the "air guitar."
Who's your style icon?I’m a big fan of Agyness Deyn, because she's very fresh and knows how to mix old and new stuff.
What about your own personal style?
I prefer mixing vintage things with new pieces from H&M.
Do you worry how your next album will pay for your mortgage or finance your car?
I already have a little car and it's cool for me. I don’t need a Ferrari to go to the supermarket. So, I don’t really need much money. It’s not that important to me.
Can you describe your music to someone who's never heard it?
My music is a mix between pop and electronic music. If you like to dance, have fun, cry and smile, you’ll love it!
Why should I buy your album?
If you want to be happier and feel good in a better world, then buy it.
~Donald Crunk @ Styleslut
