Interview: London’s Francy Planet uses songwriting to explore a new world
Francois Goudreault Jr., known by his stage name Francy Planet, is a London-based artist who has recently released a new album titled RETCON. The album features 12 tracks of ’90s alt-rock mixed with elements of catharsis, complemented by a collection of short stories. In addition to his music career, Francois is also a vocal advocate for individuals with speech disabilities, drawing on his personal experiences with stuttering to raise awareness and support others facing similar challenges.
The concept behind RETCON stems from the idea often seen in sci-fi narratives, where disparate stories are harmonized and woven together seamlessly. For Francois, this project represents a culmination of his lifelong aspirations to create music and storytelling. After experiencing a period of upheaval in his life, Francois found solace in songwriting and crafting narratives, allowing him to integrate his various artistic pursuits into a cohesive project. This integration of music and storytelling is reflected in the name RETCON, signifying a sense of reconciliation and alignment in his creative endeavors.
One standout track from the album is “All the Time That We Need,” a reflection on trying to remain present amid feelings of anxiety. Despite facing challenges with stuttering, Francois has been able to excel in his musical career, leveraging his passion for music as a means of self-expression. Through songwriting and performing, he discovered a platform where he could communicate freely and authentically, transcending the limitations imposed by his speech impediment. The ability to express himself clearly and emotively through music has been a transformative experience for Francois, allowing him to share his thoughts, emotions, and stories with listeners.
Music acts as a potent catalyst for Francois, offering a space where he can slow down, breathe, and communicate at his own pace. This meditative process of writing and performing music has granted him a sense of clarity and self-discovery, enabling him to navigate his identity and find his voice. By embracing the therapeutic qualities of music, Francois has been able to carry this sense of introspection and mindfulness into his daily life, fostering a deeper connection to his inner thoughts and emotions.
In crafting his music, Francois aims to foster moments of joy, nostalgia, and connection for his audience, particularly in a world filled with existential anxieties and uncertainties. Through his artistry, he strives to inspire hope and positivity, offering a beacon of light in the midst of life’s challenges. Looking ahead, Francois plans to release two Christmas songs as a continuation of RETCON’s thematic exploration and focus on live performances in 2026, including a unique concept of touring in libraries.
Despite facing initial challenges while producing his album, Francois’s resilience and determination shone through, as he recorded demos in a public library in Kitchener, Ontario, which eventually led to the creation of some final tracks on the album. His ability to adapt and innovate in unconventional settings underscores his creative spirit and commitment to his craft. As Francois continues to evolve as an artist, his journey serves as a testament to the power of music as a transformative and liberating force, offering a gateway to self-expression and personal growth.