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Les Colocs

Les Colocs est un groupe de musique québécois fondé à Montréal en 1990 par André « Dédé » Fortin.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Les Colocs is a Quebec musical group founded in Montreal in 1990 by André « Dédé » Fortin. Active primarily in the 1990s, the band is recognized for its fusion of rock, world music, and other genres, and has had a lasting influence on Quebec's music scene. Their energetic performances and distinctive sound made them a defining act of the era.

Origins

Les Colocs formed in Montreal in 1990 under the leadership of singer-songwriter André « Dédé » Fortin. The group emerged within the alternative Quebec music scene of the early 1990s, quickly becoming a prominent act.

Musical style and themes

The band's music is a blend of rock, fusion, and world music, incorporating elements of folk, reggae, and ska. Their lyrics, written in Quebec French, often address social themes, contributing to their distinct identity within Quebec's cultural landscape.

Career and discography

Les Colocs released their debut self-titled album in 1993, which helped establish their popularity. They followed with *Atrocetomique* and *Dehors novembre*, both among their most well-known albums. The group remained active until 2001, with sporadic reunions occurring from 2009 onward.

Reception and legacy

Les Colocs are widely regarded as a landmark group in 1990s Quebec music. Their influence is frequently cited by subsequent generations of Quebec artists, solidifying their place in the history of Canadian francophone rock.

Key facts

  • Founded in Montreal in 1990 by André « Dédé » Fortin.
  • Known for blending rock, fusion, and world music.
  • First album *Les Colocs* released in 1993.
  • Active primarily from 1990 to 2001.
  • Influential on Quebec music and cited by later artists.
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Canadian context

Les Colocs occupent une place importante dans l’histoire de la musique québécoise et canadienne francophone, surtout pour leur influence sur la scène rock alternative des années 1990.

Frequently asked questions

Who founded Les Colocs?
The group was founded in Montreal in 1990 by André « Dédé » Fortin.
From which country does the group come?
Les Colocs are a Quebec group from Canada.
What is their musical style?
Their style blends rock, fusion, and world music, with influences from folk, reggae, and ska.
What is their first album?
Their first album is *Les Colocs*, released in 1993.
Why is the group well known?
They are known for their popularity in Quebec during the 1990s, energetic live shows, and the enduring influence of their repertoire.
Is the group still active?
The group was primarily active from 1990 to 2001, with sporadic reunions since 2009.

References

  1. Wikipédiahttps://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Les_Colocs
    Supports: Origine, fondation, genre musical, années actives, description générale du groupe.
  2. Apple Musichttps://music.apple.com/ca/artist/les-colocs/30587285?l=fr-CA
    Supports: Fondation à Montréal, année de création, rôle d’André Fortin, aperçu du style et du premier album.
  3. Wikipédiahttps://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Andr%C3%A9_Fortin
    Supports: Fondation du groupe, albums, récompenses, contexte biographique d’André Fortin.
  4. Radio-Canadahttps://ici.radio-canada.ca/ohdio/musique/emissions/leffetpogonat/segments/chronique/435130/colocs-album-anniversaire
    Supports: Impact du premier album et importance du groupe dans le paysage musical québécois.