Joan-Pau Verdier

**Joan-Pau Verdier** is a key figure in Occitan music, championing the language and culture of southern France through his vibrant, socially conscious songs. Active since the 1970s, he blends traditional Occitan folk melodies with modern folk-rock influences, creating a sound that’s both rooted and rebellious. His work often tackles themes of regional identity, resistance, and heritage, earning him a devoted following in Occitania and beyond.

Recent releases like *Léo En Òc - Verdier Chante Ferré* (where he reimagines songs by Léo Ferré in Occitan) and *Paratge* spotlight his dedication to keeping the Occitan language alive through music. Albums such as *Vint ans aprèp* and *Les rêves gigognes...* continue his legacy of poetic storytelling, mixing political grit with warm, earthy instrumentation. Whether reviving classics or crafting new anthems, Verdier remains a cultural torchbearer, turning local traditions into universal art.