The Story
Why it exists.
The beginning
Rabanne's 'ME' collection arrived in 2021. Major Me, crafted by perfumer Emilie Bevierre-Coppermann, anchors the line with an unexpected combination of notes. Cherry opens the composition, bringing a tart, forward presence. Black pepper adds immediacy and sharpness. The oud follows, providing depth and resinous intensity. Incense rounds the dry down, leaving a smoky impression that lingers in the air. The structure moves from fruit to wood to smoke, each layer building on the last. This isn't a fragrance that fades quietly, it announces itself through each phase of wear.
What makes Major Me interesting is the structural honesty. This one actually delivers the contrast. Cherry and black pepper open bright and tart, immediately signaling something is happening. Then the oud doesn't creep in slowly, it arrives with intention. Patchouli adds the earthiness, incense adds the smoke, and the base of moss and benzoin anchors everything in warmth that lingers. The contrast between the bright opening notes and the deep, resinous base creates a dynamic scent experience. Each element plays a specific role, building from fruit-forward immediacy to smoky, grounded depth.
The evolution
The cherry hits first, with black pepper adding immediate sharpness. Thirty minutes in, the fruit begins to recede and the oud steps forward. Incense follows, giving the mid-section a smoky, almost meditative quality. Patchouli keeps everything grounded in earth. The benzoin becomes apparent as the composition develops, warm and balsamic, slightly sweet. The moss adds a cool, green undertone that prevents the drydown from becoming too heavy. This fragrance projects well and maintains its presence throughout wear. The oud and benzoin linger longest, sitting close to the skin but refusing to fully disappear.
Cultural impact
Part of Rabanne's 'ME' collection, Major Me occupies a distinct position within the brand's fragrance lineup. The composition draws on cherry, black pepper, oud, and incense, a combination that creates contrast between bright opening notes and darker, smoky depths. Patchouli and moss ground the scent, while benzoin adds warmth. This isn't a safe choice or a crowd-pleaser. It's the kind of fragrance that makes you reconsider what you expect from a mainstream house.
