Istanbul meets New Orleans in a smoky jazz club. 77–157 BPM.
Turkish Jazz is a fusion genre that emerged in the 1960s, combining jazz harmony and improvisation with traditional Turkish makam, rhythms, and instruments like ney and kanun. Pioneers include Okay Temiz and Maffy Falay, and it continues to evolve with contemporary artists.
The defining artists of Turkish Jazz — the names that shaped the sound. Tap to hear on Spotify.
The classic anthems and current essentials that define Turkish Jazz.
Turkish Jazz is characterized by the use of traditional Turkish instruments like ney (reed flute), kanun (zither), oud (lute), and darbuka (goblet drum) alongside standard jazz instruments. Melodies often follow makam scales, which include microtonal intervals, giving the music a distinct, exotic flavor.
Rhythmically, it incorporates complex time signatures like 9/8, 7/8, and 5/8, common in Turkish folk music. Improvisation is key, with solos that weave in and out of traditional motifs. The overall feel can range from meditative and lyrical to energetic and danceable.
Turkish Jazz originated in the 1960s in Istanbul, where musicians like Okay Temiz and Maffy Falay began blending jazz with Turkish folk and classical music. This was part of a broader cultural movement in Turkey, influenced by Western jazz and local traditions.
In the 1970s, artists such as Erkin Koray and Selçuk Sun further developed the sound, incorporating Anatolian folk melodies and rhythms. The genre gained international recognition through festivals and collaborations with European jazz musicians.
Today, Turkish Jazz is a vibrant scene, with artists like İlhan Erşahin and Mercan Dede pushing boundaries. It reflects Turkey's unique position at the crossroads of East and West, blending improvisation with centuries-old musical traditions.
How Turkish Jazz is built — drum pattern, swing, and the sounds you need.
When producing Turkish Jazz, focus on blending jazz harmony with makam-based melodies. Use traditional instruments like ney, kanun, and oud as lead or textural elements. Drum patterns often feature odd time signatures (e.g., 9/8, 7/8) with a steady pulse; consider using a darbuka or frame drum for authentic rhythm.
Swing is less pronounced than in standard jazz; instead, aim for a fluid, rubato feel in melodic lines. BPM typically ranges from 77 to 157, with ballads around 80 and upbeat tracks near 140. Sample traditional Turkish music or record live players for authenticity. Layering a jazz rhythm section with Turkish percussion creates a unique hybrid groove.
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