Tülay German: A Turkish Music Icon with a Timeless Voice

Tülay German, born on January 27, 1935, in Istanbul, is a renowned Turkish singer and writer whose musical journey began at the tender age of four. She started singing with a natural talent that caught the attention of many.Tülay German's musical education commenced under the guidance of Ferdi Ştatzer, who taught her to play the piano. During this period, she mesmerized audiences on Ayşe Abla's children's program on Ankara Radio by singing Schubert's 'Serenade' and 'Ihlamur Ağacı.'After completing her education at Ankara Maarif Koleji, Tülay German graduated from Üsküdar American High School in Istanbul in 1956. Without her family's knowledge, she courageously took the stage at Süreyya Gazino in Ankara. In the years 1960-1962, she made a name for herself as a jazz singer. She became the first Turkish vocalist to be featured on Hulki Saner's program 'Melodi Kervanı' on Istanbul Radio, where she sang jazz songs on Salim Ağırbaş Beşlisi's weekly shows.In the early years of her musical career, Tülay German received lessons from the esteemed Turkish folk singer Ruhi Su at Atıf Yılmaz's home. She enriched her repertoire by learning folk songs from Aşık Nesimi Çimen and Aşık Ali İzzet, performing them with a contemporary touch. In the 1960s, she performed in quartet concerts alongside other musicians. She collaborated with Timur Selçuk on several album projects.In 1962, Tülay German partnered with her life companion, Erdem Buri, to create 'Çoksesli Türk Popüler Müziği' (Polyphonic Turkish Popular Music). The duo gained fame and recognition. In 1964, she participated in the 'Balkan Melodileri Festivali' (Balkan Melodies Festival) with artists such as Yurdaer Doğulu, Erol Büyükburç, and Tanju Okan, where she was hailed as the critics' favorite singer. The popular music magazine 'Arena' featured her on its cover, and her song 'Burçak Tarlası' became the first 'hit' of Turkish Pop music.Tülay German's musicality transcended genres, attracting the attention of legendary jazz artist Charles Mingus. Mingus requested her to perform a song he wrote as a tribute to Duke Ellington, titled 'Duke Ellington's Sound of Love.' Unfortunately, the release of the song was delayed first due to a traffic accident the singer suffered and then due to Mingus's passing. Moreover, she collaborated with European virtuoso François Rabbath and lent her voice to Yiğidim Aslanım and the titular track of Zülfü Livaneli's album 'Günlerimiz.'In 1966, Tülay German traveled to Paris to record her albums. She recorded ten records in French, which gained popularity in France, Belgium, Germany, Poland, Tunisia, Morocco, the Netherlands, and Brazil. She performed concerts and appeared on various radio and television programs in these countries. Notably, she shared the stage with prominent artists such as Charles Aznavour, Lèo Ferre, and Moody Blues in some of France's most prestigious concert halls. She also filled Ilhan Mimaroğlu's 'Tract' album for the United States market.Her album 'Toulai et François Rabbath' (1980), recorded with François Rabbath, received the prestigious 'Académie Charles Cros Grand Prix du Disque' in France. This award, rarely bestowed on Turkish artists, had previously been awarded to Moğollar (the music group) in 1971 and Ruhi Su in 1988. Tülay German's French album marked her recognition and appreciation as an international artist.Besides her illustrious music career, Tülay German is also an accomplished writer. She has published two books and has been contributing articles to the Adam Sanat magazine since 1999.Tülay German's discography includes various 45's and albums, with songs that span different genres and emotions. Notable among her albums are 'Tract' (1975), 'Toulai et François Rabbath' (1980), 'Yunus'tan Nazım'a' (1999), and 'Burçak Tarlası' (2001). Her artistry and unforgettable voice have left an indelible mark on Turkish music.After releasing her album 'Nazım Hikmet'e Saygı' (Tribute to Nazım Hikmet), Tülay German stepped away from the stage after her 1987 concert in the Netherlands. However, her legacy continues to live on through her timeless music and profound impact on the Turkish music scene. The compilation album 'The Song of Poets' (2008) and the re-release of 'Yunus'tan Nazım'a' (1999) have further solidified her place as an esteemed figure in the Turkish music landscape.Tülay German's last album, 'Sound of Love,' released on October 27, 2007, stands as a poignant testament to the timeless quality of her voice and her artistic prowess. The album showcases a sublime fusion of her signature jazz influences and Turkish melodies, creating a mesmerizing sonic journey that captivates listeners from start to finish. 'Sound of Love' features a carefully curated selection of songs, each delivered with the depth of emotion and authenticity that only Tülay German can bring. From soul-stirring ballads to upbeat and jazzy tunes, she effortlessly navigates through a diverse repertoire, leaving a profound impact on her audience. With her warm, rich vocals, she breathes life into every lyric, making the listeners feel every emotion expressed. The album showcases a matured and refined artistry, demonstrating that Tülay German's talent only grew stronger with time.Tülay German's journey as a singer, artist, and writer will forever be celebrated and cherished, leaving an enduring imprint on the hearts of music enthusiasts both in Turkey and across the globe. Her passionate performances, soulful renditions, and remarkable contributions to Turkish music remain an inspiration for generations to come.