Tout Va Bien is a bittersweet lullaby in disguise. On the surface, the chorus repeats “Everything’s fine,” yet each verse paints a darker picture: a homeless man sleeping outside, a neighbor covered in bruises, whole cities blown apart by war. Orelsan slips into the role of an adult soothing a child, inventing cheerful explanations for tragic scenes—“He loves the sound of cars,” “She was playing with paint,” “They are making stars in the sky.” The more fantastical the excuses become, the clearer the irony: saying everything is fine cannot make it true.
Behind its gentle melody, the song spotlights a coping mechanism that many societies use—pretend the problems are not there. By flipping horror into fairy tale, Orelsan invites listeners to question the stories we tell ourselves to avoid facing poverty, violence, and conflict. The result is a clever mix of humor and heartbreak that nudges us to open our eyes, break the silence, and admit when things are not fine, so that real change can begin.
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.