La Quête invites us into Orelsan’s personal time machine, zipping from childhood classrooms that smell of play-dough to teenage nights spent sneaking out of the house. Each verse is a snapshot: the wide-eyed five-year-old hiding in his mother’s kindergarten, the sneaker-obsessed ten-year-old trying to impress his dad, the insecure teenager swapping homework for skateparks and first loves. By stringing these memories together, Orelsan shows how every age brings a new obsession, a fresh impatience to grow up, only to look back and wish time would slow.
The chorus – “c’qui compte c’est pas l’arrivée, c’est la quête” – is the song’s compass. It reminds us that the real treasure is not the finish line but the messy, beautiful journey itself. Family pride, self-doubt, friendships won and lost, even the small rebellions all become stepping stones in the search for purpose. In the end, Orelsan realizes the universe is “pas si mal” after all and invites listeners to savor their own quest, bumps and all.
Aurélien Cotentin, known professionally as Orelsan, is a celebrated French rapper, songwriter, record producer, actor, and director from Normandy. Since beginning his career in 2002, Orelsan has become one of the most iconic voices in French hip hop, recognized for his witty lyrics that blend humor and irony with profound themes.
With four successful studio albums including Perdu d'avance, Le chant des sirènes, La fête est finie, and Civilisation, his music appeals to a wide audience beyond traditional rap fans. He is also half of the duo Casseurs Flowters, alongside Gringe, known for their innovative collaborations. Often compared to Eminem for his sharp storytelling and dynamic style, Orelsan has won numerous awards, including the MTV Europe Music Award for Best French Act and France's prestigious title of Chevalier des Arts et des Lettres. His work not only shapes French music but also contributes significantly to contemporary culture.