Yseult Steals Olympic Stage, Sets Sights on Global Stardom

PARIS (AP) — Yseult took to the stage as the final performer during the closing ceremony of the Paris Olympics on Sunday, aiming to turn the world’s biggest spotlight into her megaphone. By doing so, she sought to highlight France and boost her burgeoning music and modeling career globally, particularly in the U.S.

The Parisian entertainer captivated the audience at the Stade de France, initially standing centerstage before calmly strutting across the platform, echoing her confident walks on major fashion runways for brands like Balmain and Balenciaga. It was a significant moment for Yseult, who delivered a powerful rendition of Frank Sinatra’s classic “My Way,” originally derived from the French song “Comme d’habitude” by Jacques Revaux and Claude François.

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“The lyrics match perfectly with my career,” Yseult shared with The Associated Press during an interview on the rooftop of a luxury Paris hotel. She explained that she chose Sinatra’s iconic 1969 ballad over its French counterpart because it embodies a sense of being “bold, fierce, and strong,” qualities she identifies with. “I like the fact that this is me, this is who I am,” she said. “I’m not perfect. But I’m doing things my way. The version of Frank Sinatra is more fierce and empowering. The French version is more like a love sad song.”

Following her Olympic performance, Yseult’s next aim is to capture hearts in the U.S., beginning with her new album “Mental,” which releases on September 20. This project is part of her broader strategy for global influence in both entertainment and fashion.

In the interview, Yseult discussed her new album, thriving modeling career, and her approach to maintaining mental health despite the bullying she faces online. The musician bravely spoke about the impact of these negative comments on her mental health, though she opted not to detail any assistance she may have sought. “To be bullied publicly is very painful as a human,” she admitted. “It’s painful as an artist. … Everyone having negative thoughts about you. It’s very tricky because people already have a stereotype about Black women, and a woman who has curves. It’s more and more hate on me. But I’m proud of myself because I stand tall and have resilience, so I don’t care.”

Instead of retaliating on social media, Yseult chose to candidly address how the bullying affected her mental health and allowed friends to convey her message through her new album “Mental,” which features English lyrics for the first time. Her latest single, “B*** You Could Never,” leads the 12-track album. “On my last project, I talk about my skin, hair, family, and struggle. My vulnerability,” Yseult reflected on her 2020 extended-play album, “Brut.” “On this project, it was important for me to talk about my mental health and share where I am right now.”

Yseult’s talent extends beyond her powerful vocals; she is also highly esteemed in the modeling industry. She has graced major runways for Balmain, Mugler, McQueen, and Balenciaga, and she’s a global ambassador for L’Oreal. Her appearance on the red carpet at the Cannes Film Festival this year was nothing short of sensational.

As Yseult’s stardom continues to rise, she is acutely aware of the increasing pressure. Yet, she welcomes the challenge of inspiring other Black curvy women like herself. “I just embrace my fears, and I embrace the fact that I’m not perfect,” she said. “I’m kind of happy if I’m inspiring some women. It’s cool, but it’s a lot of pressure.” Wearing a Dior Haute Couture ensemble, she hinted at her aspirations to create her own unisex brand, leveraging her growing fashion industry connections.

Yseult hopes her performance at the Olympics showcased the true face of France. “Here is the face of France,” she declared. “It’s diverse. Let’s be proud of our inclusivity. Our diversity. Even if behind each fight, you can feel some resistance. We always win. So, I’m here. I’m going to stand. I’m going to sing. It’s already a win. This is France.” She believes that even if the French lyrics are not fully understood, the emotions conveyed through the song are universal. “You can feel the vibe, the attitude, the personality,” she said.