In This Issue of The Paris Love Letter

• Happening in Paris: Fête de la Musique: Paris is Pulsating with Music Today!

• A Peek Into History: Morris Columns of Paris: Iconic Advertising Pillars Through History

• Featured French Song: Angèle - Ta Reine

PARIS LINKS

➡️ 47 best things to do in Paris right now - From Conde Nast: Paris's streets are lined with so much, it's hard to plan an itinerary. Here's our list of what you can't miss.

➡️ The Ultimate Paris Travel Guide - Curated by the Vogue editors: Vogue asked its editors where they stay eat, shop, and visit across the arrondissements.”

➡️ A French culinary icon's guide to Paris' restaurants - This BBC article was sent to me by PLL reader Heather: Michelin-starred female chef Anne-Sophie Pic dishes on her favourite restaurants in Paris right now, from the iconic Chez l’Ami Louis to newcomer Table – Bruno Verjus.

HAPPENING IN PARIS

Fête de la Musique: Paris is Pulsating with Music Today!

Did you know? Today is Fête de la Musique, a vibrant celebration where Paris transforms into a giant open-air concert with venues all over the city and artists of all kinds! Streets come alive with music of all genres, from classical quartets to buzzing electronic beats.

Here’s an article about the festival from The Connexion: Fête de la Musique 2024: France’s Giant June 21 street party

I will follow up with more about this festival next week after I explore the streets and venues tonight!

Do a YouTube search if you want to see the vibe of Paris at this annual citywide event! Here’s one that I found:

A PEEK INTO HISTORY
Morris Columns of Paris: Iconic Advertising Pillars Through History

A big shout-out to our long-time reader, Gloria, for suggesting this delightful adventure into the history of Morris Columns! We love hearing from our readers and are always open to your suggestions. Feel free to email us with your topics of interest!

The Morris Columns of Paris are a quintessential part of the city's charm, standing tall and elegant since their introduction in 1868. These iconic dark green pillars, named after printer Gabriel Morris, were initially designed to organize the chaotic poster scene that cluttered Parisian streets. Today, they are more than practical structures; they are a beloved slice of Parisian heritage.

As you wander through Paris, these cylindrical columns catch your eye with ornate caps and decorative bases, blending seamlessly with the city’s architecture. They're not just pretty but vital in showcasing the latest theater shows, cinema listings, and cultural events, giving locals and tourists a curated glimpse into the city's vibrant arts scene.

Made from durable iron and painted a distinctive green, Morris Columns are built to withstand the elements and the test of time. Their design has evolved, maintaining a balance between aesthetic appeal and functionality. JCDecaux, the company responsible for their upkeep, ensures they remain in top condition, adapting to modern needs while preserving their classic charm.

Note: I was so happy to find classic photos of Morris Columns by two of my favorite classic Paris-based photographers - Robert Doisneau & Brassaï

Beyond their advertising role, these columns are practical guides, displaying maps and event details. They've even provided crucial information during city-wide events or emergencies.

Preserving these historic columns involves a collaborative effort between public bodies and private organizations, ensuring they remain a staple of Parisian culture. Their influence has spread globally, inspiring similar urban designs in many other cities.

Next time you stroll through Paris, take a moment to admire these iconic pillars – they're a fantastic example of the city's ability to blend history, art, and practicality in the most charming way possible.

Here is a short YouTube video I found that explains a bit more:

PARIS PHOTO GALLERY

Snapshots of Paris

1. (top left) View of Sacré-Cœur from Pigalle

2. (top right) Louxor Theater

3. (bottom left) Near Hôtel des Invalides

4. (bottom right) Gallery of Evolution - Jardin des Plantes

I found this photo that I shot about a year ago. I like it because of its charming banality:

Our Fine Art Paris Photo Prints can be found at PrintShop.ParisLoveAffair.com 

FRENCH SONG OF THE WEEK
Angèle - Ta Reine

This week, we are featuring Belgian singer-songwriter Angèle. Her song "Ta Reine" (My Queen) showcases the delicate beauty of her voice and the mellow, introspective vibe that makes her music so special.

Some background on Angèle:

• Rising Star: Angèle, whose full name is Angèle Van Laeken, is a 28-year-old singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist from Belgium. In recent years, she's become a major force in French pop music.

• Social Media Beginnings: Angèle started out by posting song covers and funny videos on social media. Her unique blend of humor and musical talent quickly garnered a big online following.

• Chart-Topping Debut: In 2018, her debut album, "Brol," took the French music scene by storm, topping charts and winning awards. Her music is known for its catchy melodies, relatable lyrics that touch on themes of feminism and self-discovery, and signature mellow but confident feel.

Join Me for an Unforgettable Paris Tour!

You’re invited to explore the enchanting streets of Paris with me! Whether you're a fan of cycling or prefer a leisurely stroll, there's an adventure waiting for you. For an exciting bike tour, head over to BikeAboutTours.com (message me if you want me to be your guide—we have several guides at BAT). If a private walking tour is more your style, visit ParisLoveAffairTours.com for a personalized experience.