Lomepal: The Introspective Voice of French Hip-Hop

Lomepal is a French rapper, singer, and producer known for his genre-blending sound and confessional lyricism. Hailing from Paris, he achieved mainstream success with his 2017 album Flip, which was certified platinum in France and solidified his position as a leading figure in the new wave of French hip-hop.

Early career

Born Antoine Valentinelli in 1991, Lomepal began his musical journey in Paris, initially experimenting with rock and electronic music before gravitating towards rap. His early work, including the 2013 EP Le Tremplin and the 2015 mixtape Seigneur, showcased a raw, DIY aesthetic and a willingness to explore themes of anxiety and melancholy, setting him apart from more traditional French rap styles.

Breakthrough

Lomepal's major breakthrough arrived in 2017 with the release of his debut studio album, Flip, on the label Polydor. The album debuted at number 3 on the French albums chart and was propelled by hit singles like Trop beau and Yeux disent. Flip was eventually certified platinum, selling over 100,000 units and proving the commercial viability of his introspective brand of hip-hop.

Key tracks

Trop beau — This platinum-certified single from Flip became a national hit, blending catchy melodies with vulnerable lyrics about a crumbling relationship.

Yeux disent — Another key track from his breakthrough album, it exemplifies his signature style of melodic rap and emotional transparency.

1000°C — A standout from his 2019 album Jeannine, this track highlights his evolution into a more polished, pop-inflected sound while retaining lyrical depth.

Mauvais Ordre — Featuring Belgian singer Angèle, this 2019 collaboration was a major cross-genre success, further expanding Lomepal's audience beyond hip-hop.

Génération des poupées qui pleurent — This track from his 2023 album Mauvais Ordre demonstrates his continued exploration of complex production and societal themes.

Following the success of Flip, Lomepal released the ambitious double album Jeannine in 2019, which debuted at number 1 in France and was certified double platinum. His collaborations are a key part of his discography, including work with artists like Christine and the Queens and Damso. His 2023 album, Mauvais Ordre, continued his chart dominance, entering the French chart at number 2 and showcasing a more experimental, rock-influenced direction for the artist.

Fans of Lomepal's melodic and personal approach to French rap often appreciate the work of Orelsan for his sharp storytelling and similar genre versatility. Roméo Elvis shares a knack for quirky, poetic lyricism and inventive beats. The introspective and atmospheric style of Laylow also resonates with Lomepal's audience. Furthermore, Vald represents another facet of innovative and often darkly humorous French hip-hop from the same generation.

Lomepal's distinctive fusion of hip-hop, pop, and indie rock earns him regular rotation on a variety of stations, particularly modern hip-hop FM stations, alternative radio streams focusing on new French talent, and online radio platforms dedicated to contemporary European music.

Listeners can discover the evolving discography of Lomepal, from his early raw releases to his chart-topping albums, by tuning into the French hip-hop and modern alternative radio stations featured on onairium.com, where his music is frequently broadcast.