In the late ’90s, pop music was taking over the world. Boy bands and girl groups were ruling the charts, and one of the most beloved pop groups of the era was B*Witched. The Irish girl group had a string of hits, but none were as iconic as “C’est La Vie.” This upbeat, catchy song became a pop culture phenomenon, and it’s still beloved by fans today. Let’s take a closer look at this classic pop anthem.
The Making of “C’est La Vie”
B*Witched was formed in Dublin in 1997, and the group consisted of twin sisters Edele and Keavy Lynch, Lindsay Armaou, and Sinéad O’Carroll. The quartet quickly made a name for themselves with their infectious pop sound and their signature look, which included denim overalls and combat boots. The group’s debut single, “C’est La Vie,” was released in May 1998, and it was an instant hit.
The song was written by Ray Hedges and Martin Brannigan, who also produced the track. In an interview with The Irish Times, Hedges said that “C’est La Vie” was inspired by a conversation he had with a French woman in a pub. “She said to me, ‘It doesn’t matter, it’s life,’ and that stuck with me,” he explained. “So I went back to the studio and wrote the song in about an hour.”
The Lyrics of “C’est La Vie”
The lyrics of “C’est La Vie” are simple but effective. The chorus, which is sung in both English and French, is particularly catchy:
Oh, oh, oh, oh
C’est la vie, oh, oh, oh, oh
That’s just the way it goes
C’est la vie, oh, oh, oh, oh
That’s just the way it is
The verses are a bit more poetic, with lines like “Some people say I look like me dad / What’s wrong with that?” and “Some people say I’m obnoxious and lazy / I’m unattractive and they hate me.” The song has a fun, carefree vibe that perfectly captures the spirit of the late ’90s.
The Music Video for “C’est La Vie”
The music video for “C’est La Vie” is just as fun and energetic as the song itself. Directed by Nigel Dick, the video features the members of B*Witched dancing and performing in a variety of colorful, whimsical settings. There are giant flowers, oversized mushrooms, and even a carousel. The video perfectly captures the youthful, playful spirit of the song.
The Legacy of “C’est La Vie”
Over 20 years after its release, “C’est La Vie” remains a beloved pop classic. The song has been covered by numerous artists, including One Direction and The Vamps, and it’s been featured in movies and TV shows. B*Witched themselves have reunited several times over the years and continue to perform the song in concert. “C’est La Vie” is a timeless anthem that will always be synonymous with the late ’90s pop era.
Conclusion
“C’est La Vie” is more than just a catchy pop song. It’s a cultural touchstone that represents a specific moment in time. For fans of B*Witched and ’90s pop in general, the song is a nostalgic reminder of a simpler, more carefree era. But even for those who didn’t grow up with the song, it’s impossible not to be swept up in its infectious energy and joyful spirit.