Woodkid: Biography of the French Musician and Director

Woodkid is the musical pseudonym of French director, musician, singer, songwriter, and composer Yoann Lemoine, known for his epic, orchestral pop sound blending neofolk, baroque pop, and electronic elements.Born in Lyon, France, Lemoine first gained significant recognition as an award-winning music video director for artists like Katy Perry, Taylor Swift, and Lana Del Rey. He launched his own music project, Woodkid, around 2011, releasing the critically acclaimed EP 'Iron' and debut album 'The Golden Age' (2013), characterized by its cinematic grandeur and powerful percussion. His sophomore album, 'S16' (2020), marked an evolution towards a more electronic and intimate sound. Woodkid has also composed significant film and video game scores.
  • Before achieving musical fame as Woodkid, Lemoine was an internationally renowned music video director, winning awards for his visually striking work for major pop stars.
  • His transition from directing to becoming a performing artist himself was a significant and unexpected career shift.
  • The iconic music video for his debut single "Iron" (directed by himself) played a massive role in establishing his visual and musical aesthetic.
  • He composed the original score for the video game "Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag - Freedom Cry" and the film "Breathe" (2014), showcasing his versatility.
  • His second album, "S16", was heavily influenced by personal experiences, including the loss of his brother and becoming a father, leading to a more introspective sound.