Jacques Dutronc / Georges Raudi Et Son Orchestre - L'Arsène

Year Released: 1974
Genre: French Pop / Funk / Soundtrack

Description:

Released on Vogue Records in 1974, “L’Arsène” was written and performed by Jacques Dutronc as the theme for the French television series Arsène Lupin. Backed by Georges Raudi and his orchestra, the track blends suave chanson flair with sleek funk instrumentation — wah-wah guitar, driving bass, and cinematic brass flourishes that evoke both sophistication and playful intrigue.

Dutronc’s cool, half-spoken vocal delivery perfectly captures the mischievous spirit of the gentleman thief, while Raudi’s lush arrangement nods to the era’s blaxploitation and Euro-funk soundtracks. The result is quintessential ’70s French pop cool: stylish, groovy, and effortlessly confident.

Over time, “L’Arsène” has gained cult status among crate diggers and soundtrack collectors, prized for its combination of mod swagger and Gallic funk charm — a true gem of European groove culture.