From Türkiye to world: How Turkish melodies inspired global hits
On the left side of the collage are inspiring Turkish artists, while on the right side are some of the foreign artists who have been inspired by them, September 26, 2024 (Photo collage by Koray Erdogan)
In recent years, it has become increasingly common to encounter familiar melodies while listening to globally renowned music. From Turkish folk to modern pop, many artists have drawn inspiration from Turkish songs, incorporating samples that pay homage to this rich musical heritage.
Here, we explore some notable examples of Turkish songs that have left a significant mark on the international music scene.
Asik Veysel’s timeless influence
The Australian psychedelic rock band King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard showcased their affinity for Turkish melodies in their 2017 album “Flying Microtonal Banana.” Their track “Sleep Drifter” features a sample from Asik Veysel’s beloved song “Kara Toprak,” creating a beautiful blend that captivated listeners worldwide.
Nukhet Duru and The Weeknd’s connection
Canadian R&B sensation The Weeknd sparked interest with his 2015 hit “Often,” which includes a sample from Turkish singer Nukhet Duru’s classic “Ben Sana Vurgunum” from 1978.
Duru herself acknowledged this connection on Twitter, emphasizing how music bridges cultural gaps.
Devrim Kaya’s cultural resonance
In Turkish and Iranian mythology, the Huma bird symbolizes strength and power. The traditional Turkish folk song “Huma Kusu,” performed by Devrim Kaya, was sampled by the iconic industrial rock band Rammstein in their 2005 track “Zerstoren,” showcasing the cultural depth of Turkish music.
Selda Bagcan’s global reach
Selda Bagcan, a cornerstone of Anadolu rock and Turkish folk music since the 1970s, had her 1976 song “Ince Ince Bir Kar Yagar” embraced by legendary hip-hop artists. Both Mos Def and Dr. Dre utilized her work in their songs, significantly broadening her audience and influence in contemporary music.
Levent Yuksel’s lasting impact
Levent Yüksel’s hit “Zalim,” from his second album released in 1995, is another Turkish classic that resonates globally.
Its sample is featured in Edward Maya and Vika Jigulina’s chart-topping hit “Stereo Love,” reminding listeners of its powerful melody.
Cem Karaca and Mogollar’s legacy
Cem Karaca and Mogollar’s 1974 track “Obur Dunya” made waves internationally, with American rappers Fashawn and Busta Rhymes sampling it in their 2015 song “Out The Trunk.”
The use of Turkish samples in popular culture underscores the global reach of Turkish music.
Exploring Turkish melodies: Notable tracks sampling Turkish music
Various artists have sampled Turkish music, highlighting its pervasive influence. Noteworthy examples include:
- Gonjasufi using Erkin Koray’s “Hayat Bir Teselli” in his 2010 track “Klowds.”
- Nelly Furtado incorporating Muhlis Akarsu’s folk song in “Wait For You.”
- BB Brunes sampling Candan Ercetin’s “Elbette” in their song “Britty Boy.”
Controversies: Adele and Ahmet Kaya
One of the most debated topics is the alleged similarity between Adele’s “Million Years Ago” from her 2015 album “25” and Ahmet Kaya’s “Acilara Tutunmak.”
Despite the similarities, Adele has not commented on the issue, leaving fans to speculate on the legitimacy of the inspiration.
Rolling stones and Erkin Koray’s inspiration
Another intriguing case is the potential influence of Erkin Koray on The Rolling Stones. In an interview, Mick Jagger hinted that their 1966 classic “Paint It Black” drew inspiration from Koray’s earlier song “Bir Eylul Aksami.” While no official confirmation exists, fans continue to discuss this intriguing connection.
The impact of Turkish music on the global stage is undeniable, with numerous international artists incorporating Turkish samples into their work. This exchange not only enriches the music industry but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the cultural narratives embedded in these melodies.
