Le Grand Rouge was a French folk music group originating from Lyon in the Rhône region, formed in 1974, depending on the source. Initially comprising around fifteen musicians from the folk club La Chanterelle, they gained popularity performing at village festivals and local celebrations. The group's professional lineup solidified in 1976 with Olivier Durif on violin, Eric Montbel on cabrette, Pierre Imbert on vielle à roue, and Christian Oller on violin. Their debut self-titled album Le Grand Rouge, released under Cézame, showcased traditional dances and songs collected from the Centre and Haute-Loire regions. The group's second album, Traverser du pays (1979), featured compositions like "Parlons d'aimer" and "Ni soleil ni lune", the latter of which addressed the theme of repression. Le Grand Rouge evolved musically, blending traditional sounds with modern influences, and performed extensively across France and abroad until their disbandment at the end of 1981. Post-separation, members continued their musical careers independently.
