Gojira’s performance at the 2024 Olympic Games opening ceremony was a culmination of months of preparation and collaboration. Despite the tight timeframe, the band managed to create a truly unforgettable experience.
- Creative Freedom: The band was given significant creative freedom to develop their performance, ensuring that it aligned with the Olympic theme while also reflecting their unique musical style.
- Collaborative Effort: Gojira worked closely with the ceremony’s music writer, Victor Le Manse, to ensure that their performance seamlessly integrated into the overall production.
- Visual Impact: The performance featured a striking visual backdrop that referenced the French Revolution, adding to the powerful and thought-provoking atmosphere.
Facing Backlash
While the band’s performance was widely praised, it also faced criticism from some online commentators. Certain Christian groups and controversial figures like Andrew Tate accused the performance of being “satanic,” claiming that it was evidence of the West’s supposed worship of the devil.
The Band’s Perspective
Gojira has remained unfazed by the backlash, focusing instead on the positive impact their performance has had on the band’s reputation and visibility. The band has emphasized the importance of artistic expression and the right to challenge societal norms.
A Turning Point
Gojira’s Olympic performance is likely to be remembered as a turning point in the history of heavy metal music. It showcased the genre’s ability to transcend boundaries and reach a wider audience, while also highlighting its potential to provoke thought and inspire change.
“We felt like the stars were aligned because we’re a French band, the ceremony was in France and two of the four guys who were the creators of this ceremony were big Gojira fans and they called us,” Mario explained. “So, we also felt very lucky.
“There is not that many bands in France. Imagine if you have a ceremony in England, as an example, there is thousands of legendary bands. But in France, it’s not really the case. You have a lot of bands who play outside of France, but the list is not that big. So, there was a good chance for us to be called. So we still feel very humble. It was such a great moment and a huge boost for our career.”
