Erkin Koray:
The Architect of Turkish Rock

Erkin Koray is more than a musician; he is a cultural icon, the unrivaled pioneer who sculpted Turkish Rock & Roll from the fusion of tradition and rebellion. Born on June 24, 1941, in Istanbul, Koray’s musical journey began under the guidance of his mother, a piano instructor, who introduced him to music at age five. By his teens, the electrifying pulse of Rock & Roll had captivated him, prompting him to master the guitar and form his first band, Ritimciler, sparking a revolution that would redefine Turkish music.

Koray’s debut performance on December 29, 1957, was a seismic event. Delivering a setlist of Rock & Roll covers, he mesmerized audiences and earned the title “crazy rocker” in the press, a nod to his unyielding defiance of convention. His early singles, such as “Bir Eylül Akşamı / It’s So Long,” showcased his genius for blending Western Rock & Roll with Turkish sensibilities, crafting a sound that became his hallmark. In the late 1960s, after immersing himself in Hamburg, Germany’s vibrant music scene—where the Beatles honed their craft—Koray returned to Turkey as a long-haired visionary, embodying the rebellious spirit of Rock & Roll.

In 1969, he founded Yeralti Quartet, Turkey’s first underground rock band, laying the groundwork for a genre that married Psychedelic Rock with Eastern melodies. Albums like Elektronik Türküler (1974) and Erkin Koray Tutkusu (1977) are now hailed as masterpieces, as well as singles like “Şaşkın,” “Fesuphanallah,” “Estarabim,” and “Sevince” becoming timeless anthems that resonate across generations. Rooted in Turkish Folk and Middle Eastern motifs, these works established Koray as a cultural bridge between East and West.

Koray’s influence transcends his music. A true innovator, he invented the “electro bağlama,” electrifying the traditional Turkish saz and inspiring musicians across Turkey and the Middle East. His fearless creativity persisted through Turkey’s turbulent political eras, including military coups, as he continued to create and perform, undaunted by censorship or societal resistance. Albums like Gaddar (1986) and Gün Ola Harman Ola (1996), featuring the iconic “Akrebin Gözleri,” demonstrate his ability to evolve while remaining true to his roots. His 1999 release, Devlerin Nefesi, further cements his enduring legacy.

Koray’s songs, now played and being covered in bars, clubs, and weddings across Turkey, reflect his universal appeal. Beyond his music, he pioneered Istanbul’s first Rock club, setting the stage for future generations of Turkish rockers. Wielding his custom 1961 Gibson Les Paul, Koray’s virtuosic guitar work, soulful vocals, and philosophical lyrics have left an indelible mark on Turkish music. Erkin Koray, the King of Turkish Rock & Roll, remains a towering figure whose innovative spirit continues to inspire artists and fans worldwide.

For licensing or inquiries, contact Weagle Records Inc. at info@weaglerecords.com.