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Photo by Emre Ünal

If you need a soundtrack to your next Bosphorus-based love affair, then look no further that Melike Şahin, the new “Turkish Diva,” a singer with sultry gravity that pulls you right out of any language barrier into a full mood of elegance. For her second album, ‘AKKOR’ Melike worked with the Grammy winning producer Martin Terefe, and the deft combination of tempo and melody makes for a record that will christen many best of lists for the year. Wanting to know so much more about this charismatic and courageous creative, we reached out to find out where to go in Istanbul, the the behind her process and much more: 

OTW: Who is Melike Şahin?  

Melike Şahin: I am a singer songwriter, born and raised in Istanbul. My music is a voyage through the rhythms and textures of contemporary Anatolian pop, woven with threads of nostalgia. As for my lyrics, they are often heard at women’s rallies, shared as empowering words - some even calling them feminist anthems.

What is the beautiful song ‘Canin Çekti’ all about? 

It’s a playful piece where I explore silent flirtations conveyed through glances. 'Come on if you dare, darling,' says a woman, yet you already know you could never truly reach her—you can only admire her from afar. With its witty and bold lyrics, it has become one of my favourite songs of the album.

Any collaborations on the song? Who produced the track?  

All 10 songs of my album AKKOR are produced by the talented Martin Terefe. First demo of Canın Beni Çekti was arranged by Zafer Tunç Resuloğlu, who is also the co-composer of the song.

You might be our first Bosphorus music bae crush, how’s the Turkish music scene?  

We are doing our best to keep the spirits up. 

How do you feel your sound has evolved or changed since your earlier? 

I made my debut in pandemic, so most of the songs were home produced. It was a bit challenging to adapt the songs to their live versions. AKKOR on the other hand, was recorded live and it radiates a bold energy, just the way I feel on the stage. It represents my personality and artisanship bravely. I feel proud each time I listen to it.

What influences your music? How important is it to be ‘Turkish’ in your expression? 

My roots can be felt through my singing I believe. I am deeply influenced by classical Turkish folk music - as a child many times I went to sleep with these melodies. Anatolian folk music carries a certain level of sublime melancholy to it. I believe this melancholy is quite percetable in my singing. As I grew up, of course I encountered a variety of new genres, each leaving a mark, some bigger than others. So, I believe I managed to build myself an authentic way of singing - an eclectic mix of Anatolian melancholy and modern soul. And when it comes to my expression, we cannot overlook the significance of my lyrics; they are essential to my artistic identity. Each word I write reflects not only my personal experiences but also the broader narratives of those I seek to touch with my music. I love playing with the subtleties of Turkish vocabulary and fine tuning until the words feel just right. 

Besides this excellent album what else should we be on the lookout for? 

I have many projects in the making! One of them is releasing an acoustic version of AKKOR, along with some remixes. I'm thrilled about this because it will offer listeners a chance to connect with these songs in a new and more intimate way. This year, I performed in the Ephesus Ancient City, where my band and I crafted a fully acoustic set. It was truly moving to feel the same melodies and lyrics breathe with a different kind of life. I’m eager for AKKOR to be reborn in this acoustic rendition.

I am also very excited about my upcoming EU & UK shows. Keep an eye on my tour dates and don’t miss my gigs if I’m in your town! 

What's inspiring you right now outside of music? 

Literature mostly, ceramics at times.

Tell us a must do / go to in Istanbul? 

A Bosphorus cruise around sunset, you simply will be amazed. 

Musically, who is new but making all the right moves? Who are your current OnesToWatch? 

I am especially interested in female voices who produce beautiful music despite all the well-known challenges of our industry. I would recommend Tuğçe Şenoğul, Seda Erciyes, Nilipek, Dilhan Şeşen to name a few.