The 2024 Summer Olympic Games are here! This time, the world gathers in Paris to witness another celebration of sports, beginning on July 26 and concluding three weeks later, on August 11.
However, it’s not only the games themselves that interest the public, but also the entertainment world surrounding this event. From discovering why Snoop Dogg carried the Olympic torch to learning about the performers of the Opening Ceremony, sports aren’t the only stars!
We already know Lady Gaga and Celine Dion very well, but there are some new faces we want to learn more about. One of these is the French extreme metal band Gojira, who left everyone astounded with their performance alongside opera singer Marina Viotti. Keep scrolling to discover everything about the band members.
Who are the members of Gojira?
Joe Duplantier
Joe Duplantier handles vocals and rhythm guitar for the band. At 47 years old, he has been married for over a decade to artist and animal rights activist Vilma. The couple has two children, whom they raised with a diverse musical background, ranging from Billie Holiday to metal.
Joe Duplantier of Gojira performs at Pier 17 Rooftop on May 15, 2022 in New York City. (Source: Theo Wargo/Getty Images)
Joe and his brother Mario Duplantier founded the band and made their mark on the live circuit in southwest France. Originally named Godzilla when it was established in 1996, the band was later renamed Gojira. From a young age, Joe has been deeply aware of environmental issues, and constantly incorporates themes of ecological damage into the band’s music.
Mario Duplantier
Mario Duplantier, Joe’s younger brother, is the drummer for Gojira. At 43 years old, he is married to French videographer Anne Deguehegny, who crafts the band’s live visuals. The couple has a daughter together.
Mario Duplantier from Gojira performs at 2015 Rock in Rio on September 19, 2015 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Source: Raphael Dias/Getty Images)
Mario developed an early passion for drumming and began playing at the age of eleven. After a period of self-teaching, he joined the Agostini drum school, which significantly enhanced his skills. His talent has been widely recognized, earning him the title of the world’s best drummer multiple times from various music journalists and experts.
Christian Andreu
Christian Andreu handles lead guitar for Gojira and, like Joe, is 47 years old. While details about his personal life are limited, it is known that he became a father in 2022. He had to leave a Gojira tour at that time to be with his newborn son.
Christian Andreu of Gojira performs at Pier 17 Rooftop on May 15, 2022 in New York City. (Source: Theo Wargo/Getty Images)
Christian, like his bandmates, is a skilled musician with a wide range of influences. In 2007, he played guitar for Familha Artús, an experimental ethno-tribal progressive rock band with a traditional style. In an interview with ZYVA Magazine, Christian revealed that he doesn’t listen to much metal music outside of Gojira, preferring classical music instead.
Jean-Michel Labadie
Jean-Michel Labadie, the oldest member of Gojira at 50 years old, joined the band two years after its inception in 1996. He plays bass and is known for his energetic stage presence, characterized by his lively jumping and intense headbanging.
Jean-Michel Labadie from Gojira performs at 2015 Rock in Rio on September 19, 2015 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Source: Raphael Dias/Getty Images)
Offstage, Jean-Michel leads a different life, enjoying landscapes, solitude, nature, and adrenaline. He is an avid mountain biker and frequently shares his passion on social media. Among his musical influences, he has cited Metallica, which inspired him to learn bass at age eleven, as well as Death, Morbid Angel, Sepultura, Rage Against the Machine, Slayer, and Pantera.
