Les Champs Elysées Lyrics in English by Joe Dassin
Apprivoiser literally means "to tame," like an animal. However, its meaning in French is much more poetic and profound, famously used in the book The Little Prince to mean creating a unique bond with someone.
In the song, the singer says, "Il suffisait de te parler pour t'apprivoiser" (It was enough to talk to you to tame you). He uses this beautiful word to describe how simple conversation was all it took to break down the barriers of being strangers and begin a special connection. It's a much gentler and more charming concept than just 'winning someone over'.
This song is a perfect little story about how a simple walk down a famous street can change your life. The singer is strolling along the Champs-Élysées, his heart open to whatever happens: "Je me baladais sur l'avenue / Le coeur ouvert à l'inconnu" (I was strolling on the avenue / My heart open to the unknown). He strikes up a conversation with a random person, and suddenly, a connection is made.
From there, the story unfolds like a movie scene. He follows his new friend to a basement club full of musicians, where they sing and dance all night, so lost in the fun they "n'a même pas pensé / À s'embrasser" (didn't even think / To kiss). But by the next morning, these two strangers are "Deux amoureux tout étourdis" (Two lovers, completely dazed). The song presents the Champs-Élysées as a magical place where, day or night, rain or shine, you can find anything you're looking for, especially love.
