References in Popular Culture
HLM high-rise estates, or cités HLM, are often referenced in French popular culture, as they are known for their enduringly high rates of poverty and unemployment, as well as the concentration of first and second-generation immigrants in the communities. Many, if not most, French hip hop artists come from the ZUP around Paris — including Sniper, 113 (band), and Kery James. Rohff is known for his songs portraying life in the HLMs.
The Tryo hit "L'hymne de nos campagnes" begins: Si tu es né dans une cité HLM..., "If you were born in a HLM..." (Mamagubida, 1998). British Sea Power also references HLMs in their song "Living Is So Easy."
Architecturally-speaking, the acronym HLM has almost become synonymous with the image of an unglamorous and unsightly concrete highrise block.
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