Why Does Stromae Only Have Two Really Popular Albums?

Stromae, the Belgian singer-songwriter known for his unique blend of electronic music and hip-hop, is often noted for his deliberate approach to his music career. As of August 2023, he has released four studio albums, but only two of them have garnered significant popularity and critical acclaim. Understanding the reasons behind this phenomenon involves delving into Stromae's artistic vision, personal reasons, and the impact of his hiatus.

Artistic Vision and Deliberate Approach

One of the primary reasons behind the limited discography of Stromae is his profound commitment to his artistic vision. Stromae is known for his meticulous approach to music production and songwriting. He often takes considerable time to develop his musical ideas and concepts, leading to longer gaps between releases. This extensive preparation ensures that each album is a carefully thought-out project that reflects his growth as an artist.

Early Albums: “Mixtuire Electro” and “Juste Un Cerveau Un Flow Un Fond Et Un Mic”

Stromae's first two studio albums, “Mixtuire Electro” and “Juste Un Cerveau Un Flow Un Fond Et Un Mic,” were indeed formative for his career. These albums, released earlier in his career, laid the foundation for his unique sound. However, they did not capture the same level of public attention as his more recent releases. While these initial albums played a crucial role in establishing Stromae's artistic identity, they did not achieve the widespread popularity that marked his later work.

Return to Music and His Third Album

The significant shift in Stromae's popularity and acclaim came with the release of his third album, simply titled “Cheese” (2022). This marked a return to the music scene after a considerable hiatus. “Cheese” not only introduced new age and world music elements but also reflected the artist's growth and the experiences he accumulated during his time away from the industry. The album's success underscored the value of Stromae's prolonged periods of reflection and production refinement.

The decision to return with a more experimental and diverse sound was a deliberate choice. Stromae sought to explore new musical territories and connect with a broader audience. The limited release of his first two albums, which did not receive the same level of public attention, allowed him to build a more curated and thoughtful approach to his work.

Personal Well-Being and Long-term Impact

Beyond his artistic and musical choices, the limited release of his first two albums can also be understood in the context of personal well-being. Taking breaks and focusing on personal growth can significantly impact an artist's creative output. Stromae's decision to prioritize his well-being and artistic vision over rapid release schedules reflects a thoughtful and intentional approach to his career. This strategic decision ultimately contributed to the success and quality of his later work.

The final two albums by Stromae—“Moustaki” (2010) and “Return to Music” (2013)—are widely regarded as his most popular and critically acclaimed releases. These albums marked his return to the mainstream and provided a platform for his unique sound to resonate with a larger audience. The gap between these albums has allowed Stromae to refine his craft, ensuring that each subsequent release is a reflection of his current artistic maturity.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the reason behind Stromae having only two really popular albums lies in a combination of his artistic vision, deliberate approach, personal well-being, and the strategic timing of his return to the music scene. This thoughtful and intentional approach has ultimately contributed to the quality and success of his later work, reinforcing his position as a unique and influential artist in the electronic and hip-hop genres.

Keywords: Stromae, Two Albums, Popularity in Music