By 1980, the world of Astérix the Gaul had already expanded from comics into cinema and soundtrack albums. That year saw the release of one of the earliest stand-alone Astérix pop singles: La Chanson d’Astérix. Performed by the French comedy-music group Le Grand Orchestre du Splendid, this quirky 7-inch vinyl was tied directly to the animated feature film Astérix et la surprise de César. Today, it remains a fascinating piece of Astérix memorabilia for both collectors and fans of French pop culture.
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The Single
- Title: La Chanson d’Astérix
- Performer: Le Grand Orchestre du Splendid
- Composer: Vladimir Cosma (renowned French film composer)
- Format: 7-inch 45 RPM vinyl (Ref: ZB 61503)
- Release Year: 1980
- Sides:
- Side A: La Chanson d’Astérix (theme song of the movie)
- Side B: Super Concours (a playful “contest” track)
While not the very first Astérix music on vinyl — soundtrack albums had been released as early as 1967 (Astérix le Gaulois) and 1968 (Astérix et Cléopâtre) — this record was the first true pop single marketed around the character.
The front cover, illustrated by Albert Uderzo, shows Astérix in action, while the back features Astérix, Getafix, and Obélix, who jokes in his typical fashion: “Il est fou cet Orchestre du Splendid !” (“That Splendid Orchestra is crazy!”).
The Artist: Le Grand Orchestre du Splendid
Formed in the late 1970s, Le Grand Orchestre du Splendid was a French cabaret-style musical group known for its theatrical and humorous performances. They rose to fame with their novelty hit La Salsa du démon and became a fixture in French popular music. Their lighthearted, comedic style made them a natural fit for the playful world of Astérix.
The Movie: Astérix et la surprise de César
The music was composed by Vladimir Cosma, one of France’s most celebrated film composers, known for La Boum and Le Grand Blond avec une chaussure noire. His catchy theme captured the adventurous yet comic spirit of Astérix perfectly. He later also worked on the score of the 1985 movie Asterix vs. Caesar.
Did It Chart?
Unlike some of the Splendid’s other songs, La Chanson d’Astérix never reached the French music charts. Its release was primarily promotional, designed to support the film rather than become a mainstream hit.
Collectibility and Legacy
Today, La Chanson d’Astérix is valued not for chart success but for its cultural significance. It represents a rare collaboration between the Astérix franchise, a major French comedy band, and one of the great French film composers of the 20th century. Well-preserved copies of the single usually sell for €10–20, with mint editions fetching higher prices among collectors.
Conclusion
La Chanson d’Astérix stands as a charming artifact in the history of Astérix. With artwork by Uderzo, music by Vladimir Cosma, and performance by Le Grand Orchestre du Splendid, this single shows how the little Gaul’s adventures crossed into music and popular culture. For fans and collectors alike, it’s a piece of Astérix history worth remembering.
