I’m certainly no music expert, so please forgive my ignorance.
While watching an old movie, have you ever heard traditional French music (maybe with harmonica or an accordion) playing in the background? It’s kind of romantic, definitely soulful and very French sounding.
I would love to buy a couple of CD’s of this type of music. Can someone make a few recommendations?
… but I know that if you go to http://www.amazon.com and search under music for “french folk” you’ll find a bunch of stuff, much of which you can even listen to samples of.
Country Squire - this isn’t exactly what you were asking for, but I would also suggest a CD of Edith Piaf’s greatest hits. It has that Continental feel from the 40’s and 50’s.