Arabesk is a Turkish music genre that melds traditional Middle Eastern melodies and instrumentation with deeply expressive Turkish folk influences, characterized by its poignant, emotive vocal style and often somber, heartfelt lyrics that reflect on love, pain, and the struggles of life. Emerging in the 1960s and gaining substantial popularity among the working-class and the marginalized sectors of society, arabesk resonates with the emotional strife and narratives of the common people. The music often features the emotive strength of the solo singer, backed by strings and percussive elements which underscore the intense feeling conveyed through the song. While it has faced criticism for its perceived melancholic overtones, artists such as Gökhan Güney and Neşe Karaböcek have helped to solidify arabesk as a staple of Turkish musical culture with their passionate performances and compelling storytelling.

Kolay Değil (Live)

Elif Buse Doğan

Single - Released February 27, 2026