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M83

M83 is a French electronic music group formed in Antibes in 1999.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

M83 is a French electronic music group formed in Antibes in 1999. The project is led by Anthony Gonzalez, who has been the sole constant member and primary songwriter since the departure of co-founder Nicolas Fromageau. M83 is known for dream-pop, shoegaze, ambient, and synth-driven music, and for its 2011 breakthrough single “Midnight City.”

History

M83 began as a French electronic project in Antibes and initially consisted of Anthony Gonzalez and Nicolas Fromageau. After Fromageau left following the band's early releases, Gonzalez continued the project as its central creative force.

Musical style

M83 is associated with atmospheric electronic and guitar-based styles, including dream pop, shoegaze, ambient, new wave, and synth-pop. The band's sound is often described as cinematic and nostalgic.

Breakthrough and recognition

The band's breakthrough came with Hurry Up, We're Dreaming and its single "Midnight City" in 2011. That release brought wider international attention and became M83's best-known work.

Discography

M83 has released nine studio albums and two soundtracks according to the available source material. Among its best-known releases are Dead Cities, Red Seas & Lost Ghosts, Saturdays = Youth, Hurry Up, We're Dreaming, Junk, DSVII, and Fantasy.

Key facts

  • M83 was formed in Antibes, France, in 1999.
  • The group began as a duo of Anthony Gonzalez and Nicolas Fromageau, and Gonzalez later became the sole constant member.
  • Its music has been described as dream pop, new wave, shoegaze, and ambient.
  • M83 gained mainstream attention in 2011 with the single "Midnight City" from Hurry Up, We're Dreaming.
  • The band has released nine studio albums and two soundtracks.
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Canadian context

M83 has a Canadian connection through its international touring and airplay, and its synth-driven style has influenced indie and electronic listeners in Canada. No specifically Canadian origin or headquarters is indicated in the available sources.

Frequently asked questions

What is M83?
M83 is a French electronic music group led by Anthony Gonzalez.
Who founded M83?
M83 was originally founded by Anthony Gonzalez and Nicolas Fromageau.
When was M83 formed?
The group was formed in 1999 in Antibes, France.
What is M83 best known for?
M83 is best known for the 2011 song "Midnight City" and the album Hurry Up, We're Dreaming.
What genre is M83?
M83 is commonly classified as electronic rock, dream pop, shoegaze, ambient, and synth-pop.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M83_(band)
    Supports: Formation in Antibes in 1999, band members, genre descriptions, discography, Mute Records, and breakout success with "Midnight City".
  2. Interview Magazine — https://www.interviewmagazine.com/music/m83
    Supports: Anthony Gonzalez as the force behind M83 and the band's recognition around Hurry Up, We're Dreaming.
  3. LiveOne — https://www.liveone.com/artist/m83/512337
    Supports: Formation, early lineup, stylistic description, and chart performance of key releases and singles.
  4. Apple Music — https://www.apple.com/music/
    Supports: Artist description, origin, formation year, and general biographical framing for M83.