Tarkan’s Album Dünyayı sesiyle resmeden sanatçı. Her not, bir başyapıtThe artist who painted the world with his voice. Each note,
by Sabrina Carbone
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Tarkan recently released his eleventh album, Kuantum51, and the single Dönmüyor Giden. Known throughout Europe and Asia, his music continues to thrill audiences, as showcased by his 2025 European tour. Tarkan has sold millions of albums, featuring some of the most beloved songs in the Eastern hemisphere.
This Turkish pop singer has become more than just a celebrity: he’s a true king of music. With multi-platinum albums, his songs resonate in clubs and on radios from Istanbul to India, earning him the title of the “Turkish Prince.”
Even if many don’t understand the Turkish language, the powerful rhythms and unique sounds of his music have made his songs among the most popular for dancing and clubbing. Tarkan’s music was first introduced in the United States through Universal Music Latino, despite being sung entirely in Turkish and not always understood.
“Şımarık” is undoubtedly his most popular single. While its rhythms are infectious and invite dancing, the kissing sounds integrated into the music are probably the most memorable element for non-Turkish-speaking listeners. “Şımarık” has been translated into many other languages and is often found in party compilations.
After such overwhelming success, Tarkan’s 2003 album, Dudu, had a significant legacy to live up to. Featuring more romantic and melodic songs, the album marked a notable contrast to the cheerier sounds of Tarkan’s earlier works. Even with fewer Euro-pop rhythms and a more traditional Turkish-Middle Eastern style, Tarkan’s albums continue to sell rapidly, with tracks like “Gülümse Kaderine” and “Dudu” becoming major hits.
Beyond Music: Icon and Philanthropist
Although primarily known for his songs, Tarkan has become much more than a music celebrity. He’s also a fashion icon and a heartthrob. Many young men and women draw inspiration from his style and dedicate numerous fan clubs in his name. Regardless of whether Tarkan’s success is based on image or talent, his reputation precedes him in many countries worldwide.
Awards and Recognitions (Selection)
Tarkan’s career has been studded with numerous awards. Below is a list of the most significant accolades that have crowned his career:
- 1998 Kral TV Music Awards
- Yılın Şarkısı (Song of the Year): Şımarık
- 2001 MGD Golden Objective Award
- Yılın En İyi Pop Müzik Sanatçısı (Best Pop Singer of the Year)
- 2001 Kral TV Music Awards
- Yılın Erkek Pop Sanatçısı (Male Pop Singer of the Year)
- Yılın Şarkısı (Song of the Year): Kuzu Kuzu
- Yılın Videosu (Video of the Year): Hüp
- 2002 MGD Altın Objektif Ödülleri
- En İyi Erkek Yorumcu (Best Male Singer)
- Yılın Albümü (Album of the Year): Karma
- 2003 Kral TV Music Awards
- En İyi Pop Erkek (Best Male Pop Singer)
- 2011 Kral TV Müzik Ödülleri
- En İyi Albüm (Best Album): Adımı Kalbine Yaz
- En İyi Erkek Sanatçı (Best Male Artist)
- En İyi Şarkı (Best Song): Sevdanın Son Vuruşu
- En İyi Beste (Best Composition): Sevdanın Son Vuruşu
- Radyolarda En Çok Çalınan Sanatçı (Most Played Artist for Airplay)
- Mü-Yap (Yılın En Çok Satan Albümü) (Best-Selling Album of the Year): Adımı Kalbine Yaz
- 2011 Golden Butterfly Awards
- En İyi Türk Pop Müzik Erkek Solist (Best Turkish Pop Music Male Soloist)
- Yılın En İyi Şarkısı (Best Song of the Year): Sevdanın Son Vuruşu
- 2017 Golden Butterfly Awards
- En İyi Türk Pop Müziği Erkek Solist (Best Turkish Pop Music Male Soloist)
- Yılın En İyi Şarkısı (Best Song of the Year): Beni Çok Sev
The complete list of awards that have crowned Tarkan’s career is far more extensive; this list includes the most significant recognitions.