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When Jacob Kantor steps on stage with Paris Chansons, audiences are  treated to soulful guitar, rich vocals, and just a dash of humor. Born in  Moscow and now calling Los Angeles home, Jacob brings his unique  background, including a Canadian connection, to the multilingual  ensemble that performs in English, French, Russian, and more. He  claims his trademark hat is to keep people from knowing he’s bald  (though we all suspect it anyway), and jokes that the real reason he’s in  the band is because he married one of the singers. Whatever the  reason, audiences are glad he’s there. 

A Canadian Connection

Jacob’s story winds through several countries, but Canada holds a special place in shaping his journey as a musician. Having grown up in Vancouver, he recalls the city as a vibrant cultural tapestry. “Whether living in a Greek or East Indian neighborhood, spending weekends at the Russian Community Center, shopping and eating in Chinatown, or sampling European bakeries, the Canada I carry in my heart is a mix of cultures from all over the world,” he says. That multicultural backdrop fostered his curiosity about music and, he jokes, left him with an appreciation for running a Zamboni between sets.

Finding a Natural Fit with Paris Chansons

Jacob’s upbringing instilled in him a love for international culture, language, and food; elements that made joining Paris Chansons feel like destiny. While he grew up with North American and British music, he was always surrounded by sounds from other parts of the world. “In that way Paris Chansons is a very natural fit for me,” he explains. “I genuinely love the music we do.”

Songs with Personal Meaning

One song Jacob particularly loves to perform is “Those Were the Days.” With verses in English, French (“Le temps des fleurs”), and Russian (“Dorogoi dlinnoyu”), the piece captures the very essence of what Paris Chansons does best: weaving multiple cultures into a single, poignant package. For Jacob, the song carries added meaning; it’s one he learned from his father, giving it a deep personal resonance each time he performs it.

Music and Marriage, Side by Side

Jacob often quips that he’s in the band because he married one of its singers, but behind the humor is a genuine joy at being able to share the stage with his wife. “Most musicians don’t get to enjoy the ride with their significant other,” he says. “That we can do it side by side, sharing the adrenaline, the traveling, the newness of each show, each audience, it’s incredibly renewing and rewarding.” Their partnership, both personal and professional, adds stability to the band. Or, as Jacob puts it: “We’re kind of like Mick and Keith in a world of Van Halens.”

Performing in Los Angeles

Los Angeles offers fertile ground for Paris Chansons’ unique sound. The city’s immense diversity means audiences come from all over the world, many returning again and again to experience the group’s performances. “For a band like ours, that’s the magic ingredient that’s allowed us to thrive,” Jacob reflects. Of course, he admits, LA hasn’t solved one challenge yet: “You can find anything here, except for a way to avoid traffic on the 405.”

What’s Next

Looking ahead, Paris Chansons is preparing to release a new CD, one Jacob says is a closer representation of the group’s live sound than their first EP. They’re also expanding their repertoire and fan base, with upcoming shows on the East Coast, including a debut at the storied Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia.

For Jacob, the excitement lies in bringing joy and connection to audiences, especially in challenging times. “The joy people experience at our shows allows me to believe that everything will somehow be all right,” he says. “Hopefully, that’s also what’s coming next.”

PERFORMANCE THIS SUNDAY!

Jacob’s (and Paris Chansons) next performance is on Sunday, Sept 28th at 7:30 pm at the iconic Catalina Jazz Club in Hollywood!

Paris Chansons will perform favorites from Aznavour, Dassin, Piaf, Macias, Vaya Con Dios, Patricia Kaas, Dalida to Zaz, plus some of the most beloved Italian and Eastern European gypsy classics!

Canadians Abroad are invited to attend and enjoy a musical evening. Tickets can be purchased here.