Okay Temiz is a celebrated Turkish percussionist, composer, and bandleader known for blending jazz with traditional Turkish music and global rhythms. Born in Istanbul in 1939, Temiz studied at the Ankara Conservatory and later at the Tophane Art Institute, where he honed his skills in both percussion and technical studies. Throughout his career, he has been a pioneer in world fusion, crafting a signature style that melds intricate Turkish rhythms with elements from African, Indian, and Nordic musical traditions.
In the 1970s, Temiz founded the group Oriental Wind, which brought together musicians from around the world to explore the connections between Eastern and Western sounds. He's collaborated with icons like Don Cherry, Johnny Dyani, and Maffy Falay, and his energetic performances often feature a dazzling array of traditional and self-made instruments. Okay Temiz’s work—spanning decades and continents—has earned him a reputation as one of the leading innovators in global jazz and world music.
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