The Best Turkish Folk Music Songs
Discover the best Turkish folk music songs that will transport you to another world. From upbeat anthems to heart-wrenching ballads, these songs are essential listening for anyone interested in Turkish folk music.
Turkish Folk Music Basics
Turkish folk music is the music of the Turkish people. It has its roots in the Central Asian Turkic and Ottoman cultures. Turkish folk music often has a strong beat and is very danceable. It is usually performed by acoustic instruments such as the zither, baglama, saz, and drums.
Origins of Turkish Folk Music
Turkish folk music is an amalgamation of the music of the Turkic peoples of Central Asia, North Asia, the Caucasus, the Balkans, and the Middle East. The Turkish folk music has its origins in the nomadic lifestyle of the Turkic peoples. The Turks migrated from Central Asia to Anatolia in the 11th century and settled in what is now Turkey. They brought with them their musical traditions, which were then blended with the music of the indigenous people of Anatolia.
Turkish folk music is rooted in the music of the Ottoman Empire, which was a multi-ethnic and multi-religious state. The Ottoman Empire was founded in 1299 and lasted until 1923. It was a powerful empire that controlled a large area stretching from North Africa to Southeast Europe and Southwest Asia. The Ottomans were great patrons of art and culture, and they encouraged musical exchange between different cultures. This led to a rich tradition of folk music in Turkey.
Turkish folk music has undergone a great deal of change over the centuries. The most important change came in the 20th century with the advent of radio and television. This resulted in a more commercialized form of folk music, which has become very popular in Turkey.
Characteristics of Turkish Folk Music
Turkish folk music is characterized by its use of a variety of instruments, its simple but poetic lyrics, and itsrepeatable tunes. The variations in Turkish folk music often depend on the region where the music is sung.
Turkish folk music instruments include the string instrument known as the bağlama, the wind instrument called the zurna, and the percussion instrument called the davul. The bağlama is a small, saz-like instrument that has three strings and is often used to play Turkish folk music. The zurna is a reed instrument that produces a loud, piercing sound; it is often used in outdoor celebrations and wedding ceremonies. Finally, the davul is a large drum that is usually played with two sticks; it provides the rhythmic foundation for much of Turkish folk music.
Turkish folk songs are usually sung in two parts: the verses (tırıltı) and the refrain (tekrarlar). The verses are typically about everyday life or love, while the refrains are usually about patriotism or religion. Many Turkish folk songs are meant to be danced to; some of the most popular dances include horon (a Black Sea dance), halay (a dance from southeastern Turkey), karsilama (a Thrace dance), and zeybek (a Aegean dance).
If you’re interested in learning more about Turkish folk music, there are plenty of resources available online and in libraries. You can also find Turkish folk music CDs at many online and brick-and-mortar stores
Best Turkish Folk Music Songs
Turkish folk music is a genre of music that is meant to reflect the culture and traditions of the Turkish people. It is often passed down from generation to generation, and is an important part of the country’s identity. There are many different types of Turkish folk music, and the best songs are often those that are able to tell a story or give a glimpse into the lives of the people who sing them.
“Ağlama, Anam Ağlama”
Ağlama, Anam Ağlama is a Turkish folk song about a mother’s pain at the loss of her son. It is a very popular song in Turkey and is often played at funerals.
“Allı Turnam”
“Allı Turnam” is a Turkish folk song which was popularized by the Turkish group Grup Yorum. The song is about a young girl who turns into a gazelle, and is inspired by the traditional Turkish folk tale of “The Gazelle Girl”.
“Bozcaada Rüzgarı”
Bozcaada Rüzgarı is a song about the wind on the island of Bozcaada, located off the coast of Turkey. The song is accompanied by a traditional Turkish instrument called the saz.
“Eşek Düşmüşün Yolunu Bulurmu?”
This is a folk song from Turkey that talks about a donkey that has fallen in the middle of the road and can’t get up. The lyrics ask whether or not the donkey will be able to find its way home.
“Gelin Damat”
“Gelin Damat” is one of the most popular Turkish folk songs. It is often played at weddings, and is a celebration of love and marriage. The song tells the story of a young couple who are getting married, and their families who are happy for them.
The song is in 6/8 time, and is played on a variety of instruments including the saz (a traditional Turkish string instrument), the ney (a flute-like instrument), and the accordion.
The lyrics of “Gelin Damat” are written in simple, poetic language that is easy to understand. The chorus of the song is repeated several times throughout, and includes the phrase “gelin damat olsun”, which means “may you be a bride and groom”.
“Hasretinle Yandım, Yanıyorum”
Hasretinle Yandım, Yanıyorum is a Turkish folk song about unrequited love. The singer is pining for their love, who does not reciprocate their feelings. The song is beautiful and melancholy, and its lyrics perfectly capture the pain of unrequited love.
“Kızıl Elma”
Kızıl Elma is a folk song from Turkey that is popular among the people of the country. The song is about a young girl who is in love with a boy who is not interested in her. The song has a fast tempo and is often played on the radio and at Turkish nightclubs.
“Sarı Gelin”
Sarı Gelin is one of the most famous Turkish folk songs. It is about a young woman who is getting married and is leaving her home to start a new life with her husband. The song is sad and nostalgic, but also has a sense of hope and excitement for the future.
“Şu Dağların Arasında”
“Şu Dağların Arasında” is a folk song from Turkey that tells the story of two lovers who are separated by the mountains. The song is written in the key of A minor and has a slow, melancholy feel to it. The lyrics are simple and beautiful, and the melody is catchy and memorable. This is one of those songs that you will find yourself singing along to after just a few listens.
“Yılanı Öldüren Adam”
“Yılanı Öldüren Adam” is a folk song from the Turkish folk music repertoire. The song is about a man who kills a snake, and is sung in a fast, rhythmical style. The song is often performed at weddings and other celebrations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Turkish folk music is a genre that is rich in history and culture. It is a genre that has influences from both the East and the West, and it is a genre that is enjoyed by people of all ages. If you are looking for a type of music that is both lively and relaxing, then Turkish folk music may be the perfect choice for you.
