Aaron Neville is a soul and R&B singer known for his unique, high-pitched voice. He first gained fame in the 1960s as part of the Neville Brothers.
Throughout his solo career, he created hits like Tell It Like It Is and Don’t Take Away My Heaven. His music blends soul, pop, and gospel elements, making him stand out in the music world.
Neville’s heartfelt style and smooth vocals continue to inspire fans across generations.
About the Song
La Vie Dansante is a lively and rhythmic song that combines soulful melodies with upbeat, danceable beats. The track has a joyful, carefree vibe.
With its smooth vocals and high energy, it transports listeners to a place of celebration and carefree living, making it perfect for dancing.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Released | January 1, 1991 |
| Album | Warm Your Heart (1991) |
| Writers | Jimmy Buffett, Michael Utley & Will Jennings |
| Producers | George Massenburg & Linda Ronstadt |
Meaning Behind the Song
The song conveys a message of strength and finding solace in life despite hardships.
The protagonist acknowledges that everything can be taken away and that heartbreak is unavoidable (“They can come take it all away. Break your heart by the light of day”).
Yet, he finds comfort in indulging “la vie dansante,” which translates from French as “the dancing life.” This metaphor suggests living joyfully and moving forward despite pain and loss.
The lyrics reflect themes of sorrow, loneliness, and searching for peace of mind, but also a gentle urging to hold on and not give up (“Don’t go, please stay”).
The song portrays a balance between acknowledging life’s difficulties and choosing to live with grace and hope through the metaphor of dancing through life’s challenges.
La Vie Dansante Lyrics by Aaron Neville
They can come take it all away
Break you heart by the light of day
Drown your love in a distant bay so lonely
See the ships heading for the rocks
See the time melting over the clocks
Theres a light shadows all the rocks that saves me
It saves me
Thats why I wander and follow la vie dansante
On the night wind that takes me just where I want
Thats all I want
La vie dansante
Miss the beat if you close your eyes
Every night wears a new disguise
And I live when a new surprise surrenders
Feel it all with a willing heart
Every stop, theres a place to start
If you know how to play the part with feeling
I play with feeling
Why dont you wander and follow la vie dansante
On the night wind that takes you just where you want
Thats all you want
La vie dansante
Thats why I wander and follow la vie dansante
On the night wind that takes me just where I want
Thats all I want
La vie dansante
Dansons ensemble
Et suivons la vie dansante
Dans la chanson
C’est toujours la vie qui chante
La vie qui chante
La vie dansante
Thats why I wander and follow la vie dansante
On the night wind that takes me just where I want
On the night wind that takes you just where you want
Thats all you want
La vie dansante
Dansons ensemble
Et suivons la vie dansante
Dans la chanson
C’est toujours la vie qui chante
La vie qui chante
La vie dansante
Similar Songs Like La Vie Dansante
These songs share the same soulful vibe and emotional richness as La Vie Dansante, offering heartfelt melodies and smooth vocals.
- Everybody Plays the Fool: A soulful and smooth track from the album Warm Your Heart, with heartfelt vocals and classic R&B influences.
- It Feels Like Rain: Also from Warm Your Heart, this song blends gentle rhythms with Aaron Neville’s tender voice, creating an emotional and soothing feel.
- Don’t Take Away My Heaven: A romantic ballad from The Grand Tour album, showcasing Neville’s falsetto and emotional delivery.
- The Grand Tour: The title track of his 1993 album, this song highlights storytelling with rich soul and country elements, delivered with Neville’s signature warmth.
Similar Artists Like Aaron Neville
If you enjoy Aaron Neville’s soulful voice and emotional delivery, these artists bring similar styles and timeless sounds.
- Dr. John
Genre: R&B / Soul / New Orleans Blues / Funk
Top Albums: Gris-Gris, In the Right Place, Locked Down - Mavis Staples
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Genre: R&B / Soul / Motown
Top Albums: A Quiet Storm, Essar, Smokey & Friends - Barbara Mason
Genre: Soul / R&B
Top Albums: Yes, I’m Ready, Oh How It Hurts, Give Me Your Love
Frequently Asked Questions
Is La Vie Dansante Originally by Aaron Neville?
No, it was first recorded by Jimmy Buffett in 1984
What is the Mood of the Song?
Reflective, soulful, and hopeful despite sadness.
Has La Vie Dansante Charted Internationally?
Yes, it charted in Germany and other countries.
