Tarkan

**Tarkan** is a Turkish pop star and one of the best-known musicians from Turkey, whose hits have caused a furore far beyond the country's borders. Born in Germany in 1972, Tarkan moved back to Turkey with his family at the age of 13, where he soon launched his music career. He attracted attention with his debut album *Yine Sensiz* (1992), but his big breakthrough came with the album *Aacayipsin* (1994). With his unique blend of pop, oriental rhythms and modern sound, Tarkan was celebrated as a "megastar" and made a lasting impression on the Turkish music scene.

Tarkan became internationally known above all for his song *Şımarık* (1997), also known as the "kiss song", which became a worldwide hit with its iconic kissing sound and catchy rhythms. The song, which was later covered by artists such as Holly Valance, was instrumental in popularising Turkish pop music internationally. With albums such as *Dudu* (2003) and *Come Closer* (2006), which also contained English-language tracks, Tarkan reinforced his status as an international pop star.

Tarkan is known for his charismatic stage presence and his romantic, often passionate songs that speak deeply to audiences. In addition to his music career, he is a public advocate for environmental and animal protection and remains very popular in Turkey and around the world due to his authenticity and closeness to his fans. Today, he is an icon of Turkish pop music and is recognised as a cultural symbol, combining modern pop with traditional elements in an unmistakable way.