Tarkan’s Album Dünyayı sesiyle resmeden sanatçı. Her not, bir başyapıtThe artist who painted the world with his voice. Each note,
“Bounce” is the first single released from Tarkan’s English-language album, Come Closer, launched on October 25, 2005 (in Turkey). This track officially marks the Megastar’s entry into the international music scene, a project he had tirelessly worked on for years. From its very title, which in Turkish evokes concepts like “liveliness, vitality, dance, play,” “Bounce” announces itself as an anthem to freedom and bodily expression.
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The song is a brilliant example of the fusion of styles Tarkan aimed to bring to the global stage. In its original version, attention is immediately drawn to the Arabic melodies and the vibrant sound of the darbuka, elements that infuse the piece with an exotic and deeply rhythmic atmosphere. The Come Closer album includes no less than five different remixed versions of “Bounce,” showcasing the track’s versatility and potential. The success and adaptability of “Bounce” are also thanks to a high-caliber songwriting and production team, including Tarkan himself, Devrim Karaoğlu, Pete ‘Boxta’ Martin, Elijah Wells, and Lionel Birmingham. For the single’s international edition, an extra splash of color was added by a duet with the talented Colombian reggae singer Adassa, with arrangements by world-renowned producer Don Candiani and DJ Armand van Helden, demonstrating Tarkan’s ability to build cultural bridges through music.
The “Bounce” music video is an equally dynamic visual work. Filmed on October 12, 2005, by the famous director Martin Weisz in a hotel under construction in Los Angeles, the clip involved a crew of 70 people and an energetic eight-person dance troupe. The choreography, crafted by the renowned Travis Payne, adds a layer of professionalism and visual impact that enhances the song’s message of freedom and movement. The single’s release was also accompanied by three 12″ versions for promotional/DJ club use, solidifying its presence on dance floors worldwide.
The Liberating Message: Surrendering to the Rhythm
“Bounce” is a powerful invitation to let go of inhibitions and fully enjoy the present moment through dance. The lyrics encourage the listener to embrace the music, feel the rhythm pervading the body, and express themselves without holding back. It’s a celebration of a carefree and profoundly liberating experience, where movement becomes a form of self-affirmation.
The lyrics are direct and encouraging, urging action: “If you really know what’s good for you, ease the load let it blow. Come on baby tell me what you’re waiting for, bring it on here we go. Break free of all your senses baby close your eyes. Just breathe to the rhythm of my body and mind. Let me see you bounce ooo… We’re going higher feel the fire. Let me see you bounce ooo… It’s on tonight we’re on the rise ooo. Let me see you bounce ooo… You don’t have to hide it if you like it. You gotta gotta gotta gotta let it go if you wanna really wanna lose it lose it. Come on come on come on come on put your hands up. Do it all the way move it move it. If you really don’t wanna hold it back, let’s react spin the track, feel the beat take over and let’s pretend it’ll never end. Girl I like it how you shake it on the floor. Let me see you bounce… let me see you bounce.”
Through these words, Tarkan invites a collective catharsis, a shared experience of vitality where music is the catalyst for authentic self-expression.
Technical Details of the Single “Bounce”:
- Released: October 25, 2005 (Turkey)
- Recorded: 2005
- Genre: R&B
- Duration: 3:43 (Bounce Radio Edit only)
- Label: HITT Music
- Writers (Music & Lyrics): Tarkan Tevetoğlu, Devrim Karaoğlu, Elijah Wells, Lionel Bermingham, Pete “Boxsta” Martin
- Producers: Tarkan, Devrim Karaoğlu
- Baglama: Çetin Akdeniz
- Additional Keyboards, Programmed by: Pete “Boxsta” Martin
- Background Vocals: Tarkan Tevetoğlu