The Ministry of Culture of France has granted nightclubs the status of "places of artistic expression."
French electronic music has officially been added to the UNESCO list of intangible cultural heritage. The decision highlights the genre's significance for national artistic identity, reports Billboard.
A major role in the recognition was played by Jean-Michel Jarre — the author of the album Oxygene (1976). His works became the foundation of the French Touch style — French house music of the 1990s, which gained worldwide popularity.
Jarre, a UNESCO ambassador since 1993, has promoted electronic music on the international stage and has received the Legion of Honor. On social media, the musician noted that the inclusion of the genre in the heritage list reflects years of his work.
Throughout his career, Jean-Michel Jarre has released over 20 albums, was one of the first to use a sampler, and collaborated with artists from various genres. He has performed at global venues, including UNESCO sites.
French Minister of Culture Rachida Dati emphasized that electronic music has officially become part of the national heritage, and nightclubs have been granted the status of "places of artistic expression."
