Famous Turkish Musicians

Ahmet Ertegun was a prominent Turkish-American businessman, songwriter, record executive, and philanthropist. He co-founded and presided over Atlantic Records, where he discovered and supported numerous influential rhythm and blues and rock musicians. Additionally, Ertegun was known for his songwriting skills, having penned classic blues and pop songs. He played a key role in the music industry, serving as the chairman of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and being posthumously inducted into the Rhythm and Blues Music Hall of Fame. Ertegun also contributed to fostering cultural ties between the U.S. and Turkey through his leadership roles.

Sezen Aksu is a highly successful Turkish singer, songwriter, and producer, known for her influence on Turkish pop and world music since her debut in 1975. With over 40 million albums sold worldwide, she is recognized as the "Queen of Turkish Pop" and "Minik Serçe" ("Little Sparrow"). Aksu has collaborated with numerous musicians, such as Tarkan and Goran Bregović, producing international hits like "Şımarık" and widening her global audience. Her talent as a songwriter has further solidified her reputation as a prominent figure in the music industry.

Aleyna Tilki is a talented Turkish singer and songwriter known for her unique musical style and powerful vocals. She rose to fame at a young age and quickly became a prominent figure in the Turkish music industry. With hit songs that have topped the charts, she has gained a large following both in Turkey and internationally. Aleyna is recognized for her energetic performances and innovative approach to music, solidifying her status as one of the most successful and influential artists of her generation.

Arif Mardin was a renowned Turkish-American music producer known for his versatile work across various genres including jazz, rock, soul, disco, and country. He spent over 30 years at Atlantic Records, holding multiple roles such as producer, arranger, studio manager, and vice president. Mardin later moved to EMI and served as vice president and general manager of Manhattan Records. Throughout his career, he collaborated with a diverse range of artists such as The Rascals, Queen, Bee Gees, Aretha Franklin, and Norah Jones, earning eleven Grammy Awards and eighteen nominations.

Burak Tozkoparan is a versatile Turkish artist known for his talents in acting and drumming. With a strong background in both fields, he has established himself as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry. As an actor, he has showcased his skills in various roles, captivating audiences with his performances. Additionally, his proficiency as a drummer adds another dimension to his artistic repertoire, highlighting his passion for music. Through his dedication and talent, Burak Tozkoparan continues to make a significant impact in the world of entertainment.

Kenan Doğulu is a prominent Turkish pop musician known for his success in the music industry. He gained international recognition by representing Turkey at the Eurovision Song Contest in 2007, achieving fourth place with his performance. His album "Festival," released in 2006, was well-received, featuring popular tracks like "Çakkıdı" which was a collaboration with Sezen Aksu. Doğulu's career is characterized by his talent as a singer, songwriter, and performer, earning him a respected position in the Turkish music scene.

Cem Karaca was a prominent Turkish rock musician known for his significant contributions to the Anatolian rock movement. He graduated from Robert College and collaborated with various Turkish rock bands, including Apaşlar, Kardaşlar, Moğollar, and Dervişan. Through these partnerships, he introduced a fresh perspective and innovative interpretations to Turkish rock music. Karaca's professional career was marked by his ability to blend traditional Anatolian sounds with contemporary rock elements, leaving a lasting impact on the Turkish music scene.

Gökhan Özoğuz is a prominent figure in the Turkish music scene, known for his role as the lead vocalist and guitarist of the popular ska-punk band Athena. With a versatile musical background spanning rhythm and blues to punk rock, he has showcased his talent on various platforms, including representing Turkey at the Eurovision Song Contest. Additionally, he serves as a jury member on a reality television singing competition, showcasing his expertise and contributing to the development of aspiring artists.

Hande Yener is a prominent Turkish singer who made her debut in the early 2000s. She has become a significant figure in Turkish pop music with numerous chart-topping songs. Yener has showcased versatility by exploring different music styles, including electronic music, before returning to pop. Throughout her career, she has released successful albums and singles, earning critical praise and commercial success. Yener has been recognized with multiple awards, including Golden Butterfly Awards and Kral Turkey Music Awards. She has also been influential in advocating for LGBT rights in Turkey.

Barış Akarsu was a prominent Turkish Anatolian rock singer and actor known for his victory in the television series Akademi Türkiye in July 2004. He quickly rose to fame, releasing two studio albums and showcasing his talents in the television series Yalancı Yarim. Tragically, his professional career was cut short when he was involved in a fatal car accident following a charity concert for children. Despite his untimely passing, he left a lasting impact through his music and charitable endeavors.

Toygar Işıklı is a prominent Turkish film score composer, music producer, and singer known for his contributions to the entertainment industry. With a successful career spanning years, he has composed music for various films and television series, showcasing his versatile talent and unique style. His work is highly regarded for its emotive and captivating melodies, earning him recognition both locally and internationally. Through his music, Toygar Işıklı continues to enchant audiences and leave a lasting impact on the world of film and music.

Özgür Çevik is a Turkish actor and singer known for his participation in the television pop music talent contest Star Academy. He has gained fame as a variety performer and actor, starring in the popular TV series Yabancı Damat [The Foreign Groom]. Additionally, he released his first album, Düş-ün-ce, in 2008. Çevik studied philosophy at Istanbul University and radio and television at Beykent University. He is recognized for his role as the Greek bridegroom Niko in Yabancı Damat, the first Turkish series exported to Greece.

Neşet Ertaş was a prominent figure in Turkish folk music, known for his skills as a singer, lyricist, and bağlama player. Referred to as a "folk bard," he was recognized for his contributions to traditional Turkish music. Renowned author Yaşar Kemal bestowed upon him the nickname "Bozkırın Tezenesi" (Plectrum of the Steppe), highlighting Ertaş's significance in the music world. His artistry and virtuosity on the bağlama established him as a modern ashik, leaving a lasting impact on Turkish folk music.

Fatma Ceren Necipoğlu was a talented Turkish harpist and university lecturer known for her exceptional skills in piano and harp. She pursued her passion for music by studying at prestigious institutions in Turkey and the United States, ultimately earning degrees in harp performance. Upon returning to Turkey, she joined the Regional State Symphony Orchestra in Bursa and later became a respected lecturer at Anadolu University. Necipoğlu's career was marked by numerous successful recitals and concerts both domestically and internationally, earning her several prestigious awards.

Âşık Veysel was a renowned Turkish Alevi ashik, bağlama virtuoso, and folk poet. Blind since childhood, he composed melancholic songs exploring themes such as morality, love, faith, life, death, patriotism, nature, and his unique perspective as a blind individual. Veysel is celebrated as an iconic figure in Turkish folk music and literature. Some of his most famous works include "Uzun İnce Bir Yoldayım," "Black Earth," "Let My Friends Remember Me," and "Your Beauty is Worth Nothing." He received posthumous honors, including a Presidential Culture and Arts Grand Award and a UNESCO recommendation for commemoration.

Barış Manço, a prominent Turkish rock musician, singer, composer, actor, television producer, and show host, had a prolific career that left a lasting impact on the music industry. He played a vital role in popularizing rock music in Turkey and co-founded the Anatolian rock genre. With around 200 compositions, he was a best-selling artist and a recipient of numerous awards. Manço's work transcended borders as his songs were translated into various languages. His TV show allowed him to explore different cultures worldwide, solidifying his status as a beloved public figure.

Nükhet Duru is a prominent Turkish singer known for her versatile vocal abilities and captivating stage presence. With a career spanning several decades, she has released numerous albums and singles that have resonated with audiences across Turkey and beyond. Duru's music blends elements of traditional Turkish music with modern pop and jazz influences, showcasing her unique artistry and wide-ranging musical talents. She has performed at prestigious venues and events, solidifying her reputation as a respected and beloved figure in the Turkish music scene.

Gülden Karaböcek is a prominent Turkish fantezi and arabesque singer known for her captivating vocals and emotional performances. With a career spanning several decades, she has established herself as a respected figure in the Turkish music industry. Karaböcek is celebrated for her unique style and ability to connect with audiences through her music. Her powerful voice and versatile repertoire have earned her a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim. She continues to mesmerize listeners with her soulful interpretations of traditional Turkish music.

Serhat is a versatile Turkish artist with a successful career in music, television, and production. He established his production company in 1994 and hosted a quiz show on TRT. Serhat's musical journey began in 1997 with his first single, leading to the release of several successful songs and collaborations over the years. He represented San Marino twice in the Eurovision Song Contest, achieving notable success in 2019. Serhat's music has reached international audiences with versions in different languages, showcasing his talent and popularity in the music industry.

İbrahim Erkal was a prolific Turkish singer, songwriter, composer, and actor known for his successful career in the music and entertainment industry. He released numerous albums throughout his career, with some of his most popular works including "Sensiz Yaşıyamam," "Tutku," "Sıra Bende/Aklımdasın," "Gönlünüze Talibim," and "Sırılsıklam." Erkal was a best-selling musician in Turkey, with albums like "Sırılsıklam" and "De Get Yalan Dünya" achieving significant commercial success. His versatility extended to acting, with appearances in TV movies and series further showcasing his talent.

Pinar Toprak is a talented Turkish-born American composer, conductor, and musician known for her expertise in crafting thematic scores. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a remarkable ability to create captivating and emotive music that enhances various forms of visual media, including film, television, and video games. Her work is characterized by its unique blend of cultural influences and innovative compositions, earning her recognition and acclaim in the entertainment industry. Pinar Toprak's contributions have enriched numerous projects with her distinctive musical artistry.

Mustafa Sandal is a prominent Turkish singer-songwriter, actor, and composer who gained recognition in the music industry during the early 1990s. With the success of his albums like "Suç Bende" and "Gölgede Aynı," he established himself as a notable figure in Turkish music. Signing with Sony Music led to hits like "Aya Benzer" and "Araba." Throughout his career, Sandal released numerous albums, won awards, and collaborated with esteemed artists. His diverse talents span music, television, advertising, and cinema, contributing to his global album sales exceeding 14 million.

Müslüm Gürses, known as Müslüm Baba, was a prominent Turkish arabesque singer and actor, achieving fame for his emotive vocal style and passionate performances. He rose to stardom in the 1970s and became an iconic figure in Turkish music, releasing numerous hit songs that resonated with audiences. Gürses's music often explored themes of love, heartbreak, and longing, earning him a dedicated fan base. Additionally, he ventured into acting, appearing in several films and TV series, showcasing his versatility and talent.

Selda Bağcan is a prominent figure in Turkish music, known for her contributions as a folk singer-songwriter, guitarist, and music producer. With a career spanning several decades, she has released numerous albums that blend traditional Turkish folk music with contemporary elements. Bağcan's powerful vocals and socially conscious lyrics have earned her a dedicated following both in Turkey and internationally. She is recognized for her unique style that incorporates elements of psychedelia, rock, and protest music, making her a revered and influential artist in the music industry.

İdil Biret is a highly acclaimed Turkish concert pianist known for her exceptional talent and virtuosity. She began her professional career at a young age and quickly gained recognition for her remarkable interpretations of classical and contemporary piano works. Biret has performed with prestigious orchestras and conductors around the world, earning praise for her technical prowess and profound musicality. She has a vast repertoire that spans from Baroque to contemporary compositions, and her recordings have received critical acclaim, solidifying her reputation as a leading figure in the world of classical music.

Zeynep Bastık is a versatile Turkish artist known for her talents in singing, songwriting, dancing, and acting. She has made a name for herself in the entertainment industry with her captivating performances and unique style. Zeynep has released several successful singles and albums, showcasing her powerful vocals and emotional depth in her songwriting. As a dancer, she brings energy and creativity to her performances, captivating audiences with her moves. Additionally, Zeynep has proven her acting skills in various projects, demonstrating her versatility as a multi-talented artist.

Zeki Müren was a renowned Turkish singer, composer, songwriter, actor, and poet, recognized for his significant contributions to Turkish classical music. He earned nicknames such as "The Sun of Art" and "Pasha" for his talent and influence in the industry. In 1991, Müren was honored as a "State Artist" in recognition of his artistic achievements. He made history by being the first singer in Turkey to receive a gold certification. Throughout his career, Müren recorded and released a vast repertoire of songs on cassettes and phonograph records, solidifying his legacy as a prolific and respected artist.

Demet Akalın is a Turkish singer and former model who has risen to fame in the Turkish pop music scene since the mid-2000s. Starting her career as a model, she transitioned into singing and released her first studio album in 1996. It wasn't until her album Banane in 2004 that she gained widespread recognition. With hits like "Aşkın Açamadığı Kapı" and successful albums like Kusursuz 19 and Dans Et, Akalın has solidified her position as a prominent figure in Turkish pop music, known for her unique style and multiple chart-topping singles.

Serdar Ortaç is a prominent figure in the Turkish music industry, recognized for his contributions as a singer, songwriter, and composer. With a successful career spanning several decades, he has solidified his place as one of the most celebrated artists in Turkish pop-music history. Ortaç's work is characterized by catchy melodies and emotionally resonant lyrics, earning him a loyal fan base and critical acclaim. His influence extends beyond his own performances, as he has also penned songs for other renowned artists, further showcasing his talent and versatility.

Gülşen Çolakoğlu is a highly successful Turkish singer-songwriter who gained recognition with her debut album in 1996. Despite taking a break at one point, she made a strong comeback in 2004 with her fourth studio album, which garnered critical acclaim and awards. Her subsequent albums achieved commercial success, with one becoming Turkey's best-selling album of the year. Gülşen is known for her songwriting skills and has produced hit songs for both herself and other artists. She has won multiple prestigious awards throughout her career.

Özkan Uğur was a versatile Turkish artist known for his contributions to music and acting. He began his career as a musician in 1970 and later co-founded the iconic band MFÖ in 1980. Alongside his musical endeavors, Uğur ventured into acting in 1983, starring in theatrical productions and later expanding into movies and TV series. His notable roles in various projects showcased his talent and versatility as an artist. Uğur's legacy in the Turkish entertainment industry remains significant, leaving a lasting impact on fans and colleagues alike.

Hüsnü Şenlendirici is a renowned world music performer and composer known for his expertise in creating traditional belly dance music. He has been a key member of various musical projects and bands, such as Sulukule, Laço Tayfa, and Hüsnü Şenlendirici & Saz Arkadaşları. With a background in music education from Istanbul Technical University's State Conservatory of Turkish Music, Şenlendirici released a successful solo album called Hüsn-ü Klarnet in 2005. His collaborations and performances have solidified his reputation as a leading figure in the world music scene.

Ceza, also known as Bilgin Özçalkan, is a prominent Turkish rapper, singer, and songwriter. With a stage name that translates to 'punishment' in Turkish, he has made a significant impact on the music industry. Ceza is known for his powerful lyrics, unique style, and dynamic performances. He has released several successful albums and singles, earning critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. His contributions have helped shape the Turkish music scene, solidifying his reputation as a talented and influential artist.

Öykü Gürman is a talented Turkish singer and actress known for her versatile career. In 2007, she co-founded the music duo Öykü ve Berk with her twin brother, releasing three successful albums over the years. Transitioning to a solo music career, she has continued to captivate audiences with her powerful vocals and unique style. Alongside her music endeavors, Öykü has also ventured into acting, showcasing her skills in various projects. Her passion and dedication to her craft have solidified her reputation as a multi-talented artist in the entertainment industry.

Murat Boz is a renowned Turkish singer, songwriter, and actor with a successful career spanning over a decade. He made his solo debut in 2006 and quickly gained popularity with his hit singles and albums. Boz has released several successful albums and singles, many of which have topped music charts. Alongside his music career, he has also ventured into acting, starring in various films. Boz is known for his talent as a musician and his versatility as an artist, with multiple awards to his name.

Şebnem Ferah is a versatile Turkish artist known for her roles as a singer, songwriter, composer, and guitarist. She initially gained recognition as the lead vocalist of the all-female hard rock band Volvox. Following her time with the band, she embarked on a successful solo career, showcasing a diverse musical style that ranges from pop rock to hard rock. Over the years, Şebnem Ferah's solo albums have evolved to incorporate more of a hard rock sound, solidifying her status as a prominent figure in the Turkish music industry.

Darío Moreno was a Turkish-Jewish polyglot singer, composer, lyricist, and guitarist who gained fame in France during the 1950s and 1960s. He had a successful career as a singer and actor, with a particular highlight being his popular song "Brigitte Bardot" in 1961. Moreno's talent and versatility allowed him to excel in various aspects of the entertainment industry, including music and film. He was known for his charismatic performances and unique blend of musical styles, leaving a lasting impact on the French cultural scene.

Edgar Manas Effendi was a prominent Turkish composer, conductor, and musicologist of Armenian descent. He played a crucial role in shaping the music landscape of Turkey through his contributions to music composition and orchestration. Notably, he was one of the co-composers of the Turkish National Anthem, where he was responsible for creating the orchestral arrangements. His professional life was marked by a dedication to music and a commitment to preserving and promoting Turkish musical heritage through his creative work and expertise in conducting.

Elif Demirezer, known as ELIF, is a prominent German pop musician with Turkish roots. She has established herself as a versatile artist, captivating audiences with her emotive vocals and poignant songwriting. ELIF's music seamlessly blends elements of pop, folk, and electronic genres, showcasing her distinctive style and musical prowess. Her performances are known for their authenticity and heartfelt connection with listeners. With a growing international following, ELIF continues to make waves in the music industry, solidifying her reputation as a talented and innovative artist.

Nil Karaibrahimgil is a renowned Turkish singer and songwriter best known for her unique and insightful lyrics. She has made significant contributions to the music industry with her soulful voice and creative songwriting skills. Nil's professional journey has been marked by numerous successful albums and hit songs that have captivated audiences both in Turkey and beyond. Her passion for music and dedication to her craft have solidified her reputation as a talented and respected artist in the industry.

Ömer Zülfü Livaneli is a renowned Turkish musician, author, poet, and politician. He faced imprisonment multiple times due to his political views during the 1971 Turkish military memorandum, leading to his exile from Turkey in 1972. Livaneli lived in various cities including Stockholm, Paris, Athens, and New York, where he collaborated with notable artists and intellectuals. He returned to Turkey in 1984 and has since been recognized for his cultural and political contributions to world peace. Livaneli was appointed as a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador in 1995 and has also served in the Turkish Parliament and the Council of Europe.

Simge Sağın is a highly successful Turkish singer known for her Turkish pop songs. She began her music career by studying at Istanbul Technical University Turkish Music State Conservatory and working as a backing vocalist for various pop singers. Her breakthrough came in 2015 with the release of her single "Miş Miş", which topped the charts for four weeks. Since then, she has continued to release hit songs like "Yankı" and "Öpücem", gaining widespread popularity in Turkey. Simge's music is influenced by Sezen Aksu, and she is recognized for her musical diversity and dance-pop style. She has won multiple awards for her contributions to the music industry.

Murat Dalkılıç is a versatile figure in the Turkish entertainment industry, known for his talents as a pop singer, songwriter, music producer, film and animation producer, director, and actor. With a wide range of skills, he has made a significant impact on the music and film scene. His career has been marked by successful music releases, creative collaborations, and contributions to various projects in both the music and film industries, showcasing his diverse abilities and passion for his craft.

Sıla Gençoğlu is a highly successful Turkish singer-songwriter known for her critically acclaimed albums and hit songs. She started her career as a backing vocalist before releasing her self-titled debut album in 2007, which was followed by several successful albums. Sıla is praised for her songwriting and composing skills, having penned most of her songs with Efe Bahadır. She has also written songs for other artists and has received multiple awards for her contributions to the music industry, establishing herself as a top-selling artist in Turkey.

Mabel Matiz, a prominent Turkish pop music singer-songwriter, has made a mark in the music industry with his unique stage name inspired by literature and language. With five studio albums to his credit, he has showcased his creativity and talent through his music. Matiz's professional life is characterized by his distinctive perspective on the world and life, as reflected in his stage name. He continues to captivate audiences with his music and remains a respected figure in the Turkish music scene.

Şevval Sam is a talented Turkish singer and actress known for her versatile performances in various TV series. She has showcased her acting skills in popular shows such as Yasak Elma, Süper Baba, Gülbeyaz, and Bodrum Masalı. With a successful career in the entertainment industry, she has collaborated with renowned actors like Nejat İşler and Murat Aygen. Şevval Sam's professional journey is marked by her ability to capture the audience's attention with her compelling portrayals and engaging performances on screen.

Özdemir Erdoğan is a renowned Turkish singer-songwriter and composer who was elected as a Turkish state artist in 1998. Despite facing challenges in receiving formal arts education during his early years, he pursued his passion for music. He graduated from Kadikoy Commerce High School in 1960 and later served as a reserve officer teacher. Throughout his professional career, Özdemir Erdoğan has made significant contributions to the Turkish music industry with his unique compositions and melodic voice, earning him a prominent place in the country's musical landscape.

Kubat is a prominent Turkish folk singer and composer known for his distinctive style and innovative use of electronic instruments in his music. With a career spanning several decades, he has achieved widespread acclaim for his unique sound and contributions to the folk music genre. Kubat's music is characterized by a fusion of traditional Turkish folk elements with modern electronic influences, making him a pioneering figure in the contemporary music scene. His artistic vision and creativity have earned him a dedicated following and critical recognition in the music industry.

Işın Karaca is a prominent pop singer with British and Turkish Cypriot roots. Known for her powerful vocals, she has established herself as a versatile artist in the Turkish music industry. Karaca has released numerous successful albums and singles, showcasing her talent and versatility. She has also participated in various music competitions and festivals, gaining recognition for her exceptional performances. With a dedicated fan base, Karaca continues to captivate audiences with her music and remains a respected figure in the Turkish pop music scene.

Ben Fero is a prominent Turkish rapper and songwriter known for his unique style and captivating performances. With a successful career in the music industry, he has gained a large following for his innovative approach to rap music. Ben Fero has released several hit songs and albums that have topped the charts, showcasing his talent and creativity. His dynamic stage presence and lyrical prowess have solidified his position as one of the leading figures in Turkish hip-hop, earning him widespread acclaim and respect from fans and peers alike.

Emrah Erdoğan İpek is a multifaceted Turkish artist known for his contributions as a singer, actor, and child star in the 1980s. With a career spanning several decades, Emrah has established himself as a versatile performer with a strong presence in the entertainment industry. His work in music and acting has garnered him a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim. Emrah's talent and charisma have made him a respected figure in Turkish entertainment, with a lasting impact on audiences both in Turkey and beyond.

Mustafa Ceceli is a renowned Turkish singer known for his successful career in the music industry. With a strong vocal talent and versatile musical style, he has released numerous hit songs and albums that have garnered widespread acclaim and popularity. Ceceli has collaborated with various artists and producers, further establishing himself as a prominent figure in the Turkish music scene. His performances and music have earned him a dedicated fan base, making him a well-respected and influential artist in the industry.

İsmail YK is a renowned German Turk Arabesque and pop singer who gained fame as a member of the group Yurtseven Kardeşler before launching a successful solo career. With hit albums like Şappur Şuppur, Bombabomba.com, and Bas Gaza, he has achieved significant commercial success in Turkey. Known for his award-winning vocals, İsmail YK has dominated the Turkish music scene with his chart-topping releases. He also made headlines for his innovative music videos and engaging television appearances, solidifying his status as a prominent figure in the industry.

İrem Derici is a renowned Turkish singer and songwriter who gained popularity in the early 2010s with her hit singles "Zorun Ne Sevgilim", "Kalbimin Tek Sahibine" and "Dantel". She has established herself as a prominent figure in the Turkish music industry, known for her soulful voice and emotional lyrics. Derici has released several successful albums and singles, captivating audiences with her unique style and powerful performances. With her distinct musical talent and captivating stage presence, she continues to be a beloved artist among fans both in Turkey and internationally.

Yıldız Tilbe is a highly successful Turkish singer known for her Kurdish descent and distinctive eastern-infused ballads. With a career spanning several decades, she has established herself as one of the best-selling musical artists in Turkey. Her soulful vocals and emotional performances have garnered her a dedicated fan base. Tilbe's unique style and powerful lyrics have resonated with audiences, making her a prominent figure in the Turkish music industry. She continues to captivate listeners with her heartfelt songs and remains a respected artist in the country.