Exclusive Interview with Manu Chevalier

Artist Spotlight: Manu Chevalier

Marseille-born musician, songwriter, and producer Manu Chevalier is back with his most infectious release yet. "I'm Alright" featuring Argentine vocalist Lumina B officially dropped May 22, 2026, and it's the kind of track that pulls you onto the dance floor before you even realize you've moved.

As one of music’s most enduring voices, Manu Chevalier reveals what fuels their creativity and keeps them grounded.

Outverge: What do you enjoy doing when you’re not making music?

Manu Chevalier: I enjoy playing and watching soccer. I live in Marseille, France, where soccer is almost a religion, so it's naturally a big part of my life. I'm also interested in sports in general. I love traveling and discovering different cultures. Geography and history have always fascinated me, and I'm constantly exploring new music. I also enjoy watching all kinds of movies, from timeless classics to the latest releases.

Outverge: How do you stay motivated and inspired in your daily life?

Manu Chevalier: Life isn't always easy, but I try to focus on the positive and keep believing in creativity. Life experiences and music are constant sources of inspiration for me. Some of my best ideas come when I'm doing something completely unrelated to music. I often find myself hearing melodies, lyrics, and sometimes even entire songs in my head. while walking my dog or even while vacuuming the house. Inspiration has a funny way of showing up when you least expect it. I also listen to many different genres and always try to discover new artists, sounds, and ideas that keep my imagination alive.

Outverge: How do you balance your personal life with your music career?

Manu Chevalier: I try to organize my schedule as efficiently as possible. Music is a huge part of my life, but spending time with my family and taking breaks is just as important. Finding that balance helps me stay creative and focused.

Outverge: How do you stay grounded amidst the pressures of fame and success?

Manu Chevalier: As an independent and developing artist, fame and success aren't my main priorities. Working hard is the first step. Everything else comes with time and perseverance. I stay focused on making the best music I can while enjoying everyday life. I remind myself why I started making music in the first place: because I genuinely love creating. Staying consistent and continuing to improve means much more to me than chasing fame. My first goal has always been to write songs for other artists and collaborate with talented people. At the same time, releasing my own music is essential because it's my most personal way of expressing myself

Outverge: What’s your favorite way to unwind after a long day of recording or performing?

Manu Chevalier: It really depends on my mood. Sometimes I enjoy spending time with my family, playing soccer, watching a good movie, or simply listening to music I love. Music can also be a way to relax. I've got many songs in mind, but "Back to My Dream" is probably the best example. I wrote it as a reminder that we all need moments to disconnect from everyday life and reconnect with our dreams. It's still one of the songs that represents me the most.

Outverge: How do you stay true to yourself while evolving as an artist?

Manu Chevalier: Being a saxophone player has also shaped the way I write melodies and arrangements. It constantly reminds me to keep a human touch in my music. I enjoy being involved in every step of the creative process, from writing melodies, lyrics, and arrangements to producing the final recording. Creating music has always been my most natural way of expressing myself. I always try to stay faithful to my musical identity while remaining open to new influences, sounds, and production techniques. Evolution should never mean losing authenticity.

Outverge: What’s your philosophy on failure and success?

Manu Chevalier: Stay true to yourself, treat people with respect, keep learning, and never stop creating. When I was a student at the Songwriting Academy, one of my mentors used to say "Don't be a dick. Leave your ego at the door". It's so true for me. Failure is part of the learning process. Every setback teaches you something and helps you improve, while success is often the result of consistency, hard work, and perseverance.

Outverge: How do you define happiness and fulfillment in your life and career?

Manu Chevalier: Happiness means having a loving family, loyal friends, meaningful relationships, and the opportunity to keep creating music and living your passions. Fulfillment comes from being able to finish songs I'm truly proud of, share them with the world, and see people connect with what I've created, knowing my music can bring them emotions.

Outverge: What drives you to keep creating music even during challenging times?

Manu Chevalier: I keep on believing in my creativity and I'm always curious to explore new sounds and new ways of expressing emotions through melodies and lyrics. Music has always been one of the best ways for me to express emotions and connect with people.

Outverge: How do you define success in your personal and professional life?

Manu Chevalier: For me, success means writing songs I'm proud of, building a lasting musical career, sharing my music with people around the world, and continuing to grow as both an artist and as a person. Every achievement I've been fortunate enough to experience has meant a lot to me, whether it's receiving radio airplay, being featured on Spotify playlists, reaching No. 1 several times on Redline Radio Switzerland's local Top 40 chart, or simply hearing that one of my songs has touched someone's life. Personally, success also means having a happy family and strong relationships with the people who matter most.