Murat Ertel

Murat Ertel, born in 1964 in Istanbul, Turkey, is a pioneer in the Turkish psychedelic and experimental music scenes. He is best known as one of the founding members of the influential band Baba Zula, which blends traditional Turkish music with electronic and psychedelic sounds, creating a unique "Istanbul psychedelia" vibe that has become emblematic of the city itself. Before Baba Zula, he was involved in Turkey’s early underground music scene, including the band Zen, which focused heavily on improvisation, and his first band, Mavi Güneş 69, formed when he was just five years old. Ertel’s influences range from Turkish folk and Anatolian rock to legendary guitarists like Jimi Hendrix and Santana. His music often carries strong political messages and critiques, reflecting his commitment to using art as a form of resistance and social commentary.

Beyond his work with Baba Zula, Murat Ertel continues to explore new musical territories while maintaining a deep connection to his roots. He plays the electric saz and is known for his distinctive vocal style. Ertel embraces slowing down life's pace, balancing his musical career with family life, and incorporates traditional instruments such as the Greek bouzouki into his performances. His approach to music is deeply improvisational and multidisciplinary, continually evolving yet rooted in the cultural heritage of Anatolia. As a sound warrior, he aims to awaken audiences not only in Turkey but worldwide through his politically charged and genre-defying music.