http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.7273227&rws=%2Folivia-ruiz%2Fmusic-videos.rssShe's noted French singer Didier Blanc's daughter, but Olivia Ruiz really made a name for herself with a stint on the inaugural <i>Star Academy</i> television show (France's version of <i>American Idol</i>) in 2001. That led to a record deal, and her debut, <I>J'aime pas l'Amour</i>, was nominated for a Victoires de la Musique award. Despite her numerous legs up in the music world, Ruiz has always proved to follow her own muse, choosing to travel a sly, strange musical route rather than aim for the top of the pop charts. She asked a handful of her favorite musicians to pen songs for her first album; it worked so well that more signed on for the follow-up -- and Ruiz began trying her hand at composing as well. Her childish voice contrasts with the knowing, orchestral and at times carnival-esque nature of her songs. - Sarah BardeenFrench Popen720Sat, 19 Dec 2009 07:44:01 -0800 http://static.realone.com/rotw/images/logo_rhapsody_113x22.gif http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.7273227&rws=%2Folivia-ruiz%2Fmusic-videos.rss She's noted French singer Didier Blanc's daughter, but Olivia Ruiz really made a name for herself with a stint on the inaugural <i>Star Academy</i> television show (France's version of <i>American Idol</i>) in 2001. That led to a record deal, and her debut, <I>J'aime pas l'Amour</i>, was nominated for a Victoires de la Musique award. Despite her numerous legs up in the music world, Ruiz has always proved to follow her own muse, choosing to travel a sly, strange musical route rather than aim for the top of the pop charts. She asked a handful of her favorite musicians to pen songs for her first album; it worked so well that more signed on for the follow-up -- and Ruiz began trying her hand at composing as well. Her childish voice contrasts with the knowing, orchestral and at times carnival-esque nature of her songs. - Sarah Bardeen