This initiative highlights the cultural significance of the genre, primarily thanks to outstanding figures such as Jean-Michel Jarre, who created the famous album Oxygene, which became foundational in the world of electronic music.
The album, released in 1976, as well as his other works like Equinoxe and Zoolook, became a source of inspiration for the development of the French Touch movement—a style of French house music from the 90s that gained worldwide popularity.
In 2021, President Emmanuel Macron awarded Jarre the French Order of the Legion of Honor, the highest award in the country. Since 1993, Jarre has been a UNESCO ambassador and actively promotes electronic music in this role.
On social media, he expressed his joy regarding the recognition of electronic music: "I am happy to see that this genre has finally taken its place on the World Heritage List, especially after more than thirty years spent as a UNESCO ambassador and representative of intangible culture," Billboard quotes Jarre.
Rachida Dati, France's Minister of Culture, noted that electronic music "rightfully occupies its place in the national heritage," and that clubs now have the status of "places of artistic expression."
Jarre, born in Lyon in 1948, has released more than 20 albums since 1976. His debut album Oxygene was recorded in a home studio using various synthesizers, an electric organ, and a drum machine, selling 12 million copies. In his third album Les Chants Magnetiques (1981), he became one of the first to use a sampler in his music. His innovative approach has influenced many artists, leading to collaborations with renowned musicians such as Moby, Armin van Buuren, Pet Shop Boys, and Hans Zimmer. One of Jarre's most significant concerts took place in Moscow in 1997 in honor of the city's 850th anniversary, gathering 3.5 million spectators.
Throughout his career, the musician has performed on majestic stages, including UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the Pyramids of Giza, the Eiffel Tower, Versailles, and Pompeii. Last month, he held a concert at Registan Square in Samarkand during the 43rd UNESCO General Conference.
