Neşet Ertaş was a revered figure in Turkish folk music, known for his profound interpretations of traditional Anatolian music and his mastery of the bağlama, a Turkish stringed instrument. Born on September 1938 in Kırşehir, Turkey, Ertaş was part of a legacy—his father, Muharrem Ertaş, was a well-regarded folk musician, from whom he inherited a deep-rooted musical tradition.

Throughout his life, Neşet Ertaş earned the affectionate nickname "Bozkırın Tezenesi" which translates to "The Plectrum of the Steppe." This moniker reflected his intimate connection to the cultural heritage of the Anatolian steppes. His music seamlessly blended the styles of the asik tradition (a form of Turkish folk storytelling) with distinct elements of Turkish classical music, creating a unique sound that resonated with the Turkish populace.

Ertaş's compositions were characterized by their emotional depth and simplicity. Songs like "Gönül Dağı," "Yar imiş Meğer," and "Nerde Ne Arıyon" showcased his ability to convey universal themes of love, longing, and heartache. His work also had a philosophical quality, often exploring themes of existentialism and the human condition, all while maintaining a deep connection to the land and its people.

As a testament to his influence, his passing on September 25, 2012, was widely mourned across Turkey. Ertaş's legacy continues to live on through his expansive discography, which remains an essential touchstone for fans and musicians who seek to experience the soul of Turkish folk music.

Genres

Arabesk

Baglama

Bozlak

Oyun Havasi

Turkish Folk

Related Artists

Aşık Veysel

Musa Eroğlu

Selda Bağcan

Cengiz Özkan

Kâzım Koyuncu

Edip Akbayram

Cem Karaca

Ahmet Kaya

Arif Sağ

Erdal Erzincan

Yavuz Bingöl

Erkin Koray

Latest Release

Yar imiş Meğer (Speed Up)

Neşet Ertaş

Single - Released June 4, 2023