The DJ Mehdi Documentary Series by Arte Won over Le Grand Rex in a Heartbeat
A self-taught composer and a visionary producer, DJ Mehdi was the first French artist to bridge two diametrically opposed genres: rap and electro. Aged 12, Mehdi Faveris-Essadi gently ventured into his dad’s vinyl collection, a curated selection of soul, rock, and disco, while nurturing himself with oriental music from his mother’s side, of Tunisian origins. Like a proper geek, he started composing in his room with a handcrafted sampler. In its wake, the French Touch became a hit and started gradually conquering the world. This electro vibe swept away everything in its path and gave rise to groups such as Daft Punk, Justice and Cassius. Thirteen years after his sudden death, his childhood friend and filmmaker Thibaut de Longeville has decided to pay tribute to him in collaboration with Arte, shedding light on the pivotal role that DJ Mehdi played in the emergence of these internationally acclaimed music scenes through a new documentary series. Yesterday evening, some of the biggest names in the music industry gathered at Le Grand Rex to celebrate the launch of this tribute documentary series. We had the pleasure of meeting Thibaut de Longeville, alongside de Pedro Winter, Vincent Cassel, Stomsy Bugsy, Soko, Breakbot, Irfane, Cut Killer, Joey Starr, Fary…
Photos: Louis Liébert & Jean Picon
