Released in 1989, Lil Louis’ French Kiss shakes things up with its sensual slow motion and hypnotic climbs : a sultry Chicago house classic, as cult as it is controversial
French Kiss, by Lil Louis, released in 1989, is an iconic Chicago house track that has left its mark on the history of electronic music. Known for its daring structure, the track gradually slows to a stop, accompanied by suggestive moans, before resuming its initial rhythm. This innovation caused controversy, leading to its banning by the BBC, but also contributed to its international success. The song reached number one on the US Billboard Dance Club Songs chart and number two in the UK. It has influenced many artists and has been sampled in various works, notably by Josh Wink and Robyn.
In 2022, Rolling Stone ranked it 21st in its list of the “200 Greatest Dance Songs of All Time”. French Kiss is probably one the record I’ve played the most in my DJ Sets. Besides the fact it’s the perfect track to give a new breath and a great warmness to a party, this classic piece is really appreciated by the audience and even requested. For the times I did not play it, I sometimes have heard : « That was great, but he did not play Lil Louis tonight ! ».
Words about Lil Louis…
Born Louis Jordan in Chicago in 1962, and son of the famous Blues guitarist Bobby Sims, Lil’ Louis is one of the Chicago House scene pioneers and great producers; As a child, Lil’ Louis learn to play drums and bass and during the mid-’70 he starts djing, opening his own Future club in Chicago, in 1975. Then he starts to experiment tape editing techniques. In 1980 he produces House music and he signs as co-author the House anthem 7 Ways To Jack alongside Marshall Jefferson. In 1987 his ‘French Kiss’ single launches him, he signs to Epic label, releasing his debut album From the Mind of Lil’ Louis in 1989.
