Interview by Paul Salfen
In a world often overwhelmed by noise, French singer-songwriter Plumes is creating a symphony of connection that resonates far beyond the human audience. With his pink guitar in hand, Plumes has captured hearts globally by serenading animals—cows, horses, parrots, rhinos, and even okapis—with soulful melodies. His viral videos, showcasing animals visibly moved by his music, have sparked a movement of appreciation for the sentience of creatures and the universal language of song. AMFM Magazine recently sat down with Plumes to uncover the story behind his unique journey, his passion for animals, and how music is bridging the gap between humans and nature.
A Countryside Experiment Turned Global Phenomenon
Plumes’ journey began three years ago in the French countryside, where he was living with his grandmother. “I read somewhere that cows like music, that it’s soothing to them,” he shared during our conversation. Intrigued, he decided to test the theory himself. Armed with his guitar, he played for a herd of cows and was astonished by their response. “They were super receptive,” he recalled. “They gathered around, some even rubbed against me. It was magical.” This moment sparked a passion that would lead him to perform for a variety of animals, from giraffes to rhinos, each responding in its own remarkable way.
What started as a personal experiment has grown into a global sensation. Plumes’ videos, shared on platforms like Instagram (@PlumesOfficiel), have reached audiences in numerous countries, connecting people through a shared love for animals and music. “It’s the best,” he said, reflecting on the ability to connect with people worldwide. “I get to share this with so many, and it feels amazing.”
The Science of Song and Animal Connection
While Plumes’ performances are undeniably heartwarming, there’s a deeper layer to his work. He’s collaborating with scientists to analyze how animals respond to different types of music. “I usually choose love songs because the intent behind the music is important,” he explained. “Animals can feel it.” For parrots, known for their sense of rhythm, he opts for more upbeat tunes, while classical music often resonates broadly across species. His findings so far? Cows, horses, and parrots are among the most receptive, with surprises like an okapi lingering for nearly an hour to listen to his rendition of Radiohead’s Creep.
Not every animal is an instant fan, though. Plumes chuckled as he mentioned alpacas, the one species that hasn’t warmed to his serenades. “They’re not very receptive in general,” he noted, suggesting external factors like crowds might play a role. Undeterred, he plans to try again, demonstrating his commitment to understanding and connecting with every creature.
A Mission Beyond Music
For Plumes, these performances are more than just viral content—they’re a call to action. His videos often include links to organizations supporting abused and endangered animals, aiming to raise awareness about their sentience and welfare. “Animals inspire me to be kinder, more patient,” he said. “They remind us to reconnect with nature.” His work resonates with audiences who find solace in these gentle interactions, offering a soothing escape in turbulent times. As he put it, “Maybe we’ve lost touch with nature, and these videos help people feel that connection again.”
From Childhood Melodies to a Stage with Green Day
Music has been a constant in Plumes’ life since childhood. “I’ve been making up songs in my head since I was three or four,” he shared. While he humbly downplays his vocal talent—“Animals don’t judge, so that’s good!”—his passion is undeniable. A defining moment came when he attended a Green Day concert, his favorite band. On a whim, he made a sign asking to sing with them. “I ended up finishing the show with Billie Joe on stage,” he recounted, calling it his “Hail Mary moment.” This bold move reflects the fearless creativity that drives his animal serenades.
What’s Next for Plumes?
Plumes is just getting started. He recently released a new single, a folk-inspired track titled Friendship, and plans to release more music every few months. While his animal performances take center stage, he’s also collaborating with other artists who share his passion for animals, hinting at exciting joint projects in the coming months. His dream? To perform up close with Asian elephants, without barriers, to deepen the connection. So far, his performances have been in France, at sanctuaries and zoos, but he’s eager to take his music global, with plans to visit other countries soon.
For aspiring artists, Plumes offers simple yet profound advice: “Take pleasure in what you do. If you’re not enjoying it, ask yourself why and get back to that joy.” His own joy is evident in every strum of his guitar and every animal that pauses to listen.
A Bright Spot in a Strange Time
In an era often marked by division, Plumes’ music is a reminder of the beauty in simplicity and connection. Whether it’s a cow nuzzling closer or a rhino standing in quiet awe, his performances show that music transcends species, language, and borders. As he continues to serenade the animal kingdom and inspire audiences worldwide, Plumes is proving that a single voice, paired with a guitar and a heart for nature, can create a ripple effect of kindness and wonder.
Follow Plumes on Instagram (@PlumesOfficiel) to witness his latest animal serenades, and stream his single Friendshipon major platforms. AMFM Magazine looks forward to seeing where this unique artist takes his music—and his mission—next.
Paul Salfen is a host and writer for AMFM Magazine, known for his engaging interviews with artists and creators who push boundaries in their craft.
View this post on Instagram
