Eurovision Top 100, #98: L’Oiseau et l’Enfant (France, 1977)

At number 98 on the Eurovision Top 100 list, we have our first winning song, “L’Oiseau et L’Enfant” by Marie Myriam.

You will see over 30 more winners on this top 100 list, but just because this is the first one (with many more in front of it) does not make this a bad song. On the contrary: The fact that it made the Top 100 at all is a mark of its greatness. Unfortunately for France, they would be required to savor this moment, for reasons we will explain in a bit.

Vital Information: “L’Oiseau et l’Enfant”

What I Liked

Myriam’s voice is so good and so smooth. You would not have to speak French to tell that her diction was clear. Hard to believe she was just 19 years old (though not by much) at the time she performed this at Eurovision. She was able to go up and grab some of those bigger notes as well, which helped her land the best vocal score we gave out in 1977. The song closed out on a high of energy, which I always appreciate.

The composition was also strong. One might think a song about a bird and a child would be basic, but read through the lyrics and see the error in your ways. There is vivid imagery in there about war, geopolitics, and abandonment.

Other Facts

• As of 2024, this was France’s last win at Eurovision. They have come close many times in the last almost 50 years, but not close enough.
• Myriam was born in what is now known as the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
• The 1977 contest was held on 7 May, the day before Myriam’s 20th birthday. Joyeux anniversaire indeed.
• She performed last in the running order in 1977, in 18th position.
• This was the fourth and final French-language song to win at Eurovision in the 1970s; the next would be Luxembourg in 1983.
• Myriam is still involved with Eurovision-adjacent activities. She will be part of the Luxembourg Song Contest’s jury in 2025.

In Case You Must Hear “L’Oiseau et l’Enfant” Right Now

Here is Marie Myriam’s performance from 1977, as shown on YouTube.