"The Soundtrack to a National Identity Crisis"

"French rap's ascent from peripheral subculture to mainstream staple began during the golden era of 90s US hip-hop. Inspired by the political rhymes of Public Enemy, rap français built its reputation on vociferous social criticism, opposing racism and police brutality. The commercial achievements of the groups Suprême NTM and Iam helped make France the largest hip-hop market outside the US, which it remains to this day."

At The Guardian, Michael Oliver looks at "the most successful French popular music movement of all time."