Joli Tambour

“Joli Tambour” by Comptines Et Chansons is a charming and whimsical song that tells the story of a drummer returning from war and his encounter with the king’s daughter. The song is steeped in the tradition of French folk music, with a repetitive and catchy refrain, “Et ri et ran, ran, ran pa ta plan!” which adds a playful and rhythmic element to the narrative.

The lyrics begin with the drummer, referred to as “Joli Tambour,” returning from the war. As he passes by, the king’s daughter, standing at her window, catches his eye. She holds a rose, symbolizing beauty and perhaps love. The drummer asks for the rose, but the princess directs him to ask her father, the king. This sets the stage for a classic tale of courtship and social hierarchy.

When the drummer approaches the king, he is asked about his fortune. Initially, he humbly offers his drum and drumsticks, which are symbols of his identity and profession. However, the king deems this insufficient. The drummer then reveals that he possesses great wealth, including castles and ships, one of which is meant for his beloved. This sudden revelation of wealth shifts the king’s perception, leading him to inquire about the drummer’s lineage. Upon learning that the drummer is the son of Emperor Augustus, the king consents to the marriage. However, in a surprising twist, the drummer rejects the king’s daughter, claiming that there are more beautiful women in his own country.

This song explores themes of love, social status, and identity. The drummer’s journey from a humble soldier to a wealthy suitor and finally to a proud individual who values his own heritage over the king’s offer, reflects a deeper commentary on self-worth and societal expectations. The playful refrain and the narrative’s twists and turns make “Joli Tambour” a delightful and thought-provoking piece of folk music.