Mustafa Özkent, the Belgian Orchestra and the Famous Monkey

Over 60 years of life dedicated to music can hardly describe Mustafa Özkent’s story and his achievements. Besides being the producer of many albums, he has the title of chief conductor of various orchestras and his fame has reached continents outside his home country as a talented instrumentalist.

The album he made in 1973 called ‘Gençlik Ile Elele’ did not really attract enough attention back in the days. The idea was to attract young music listeners’ attention who were hitting the dance floors back then with funky rhythms. But their focus was towards western music and the local productions with Turkish tunes was not under their radar. After almost four decades, Finders Keepers discovered this treasure and pressed the record once again.

BM: Your musical journey began decades ago. Can you tell us about your early influences and how they shaped your unique sound, often described as a fusion of Anatolian rock, funk, and psychedelia?

MÖ: My professional journey into music commenced in 1960. In the subsequent years, as a guitarist, I found profound inspiration in the works of Les Paul and bands such as Blood, Sweat & Tears and Chicago. The style often identified as Anatolian Rock emerged from harmonizing and arranging traditional Turkish folk songs in a way that incorporates a myriad of musical genres, blending the past with the modern.

BM: ‘Gençlik İle Elele’ has been hailed as a groundbreaking album since its release in 1973. What inspired the creation of this masterpiece, and how do you feel it has influenced modern music?

MÖ: The Gençlik İle Elele album, crafted during the vibrant 1970s, was envisioned as a collection designed for the youth to dance to music that reflected their own cultural ethos. The album stands as a testament to the innovative harmonization and arrangement of Turkish folk melodies, enriched with interpretations that traverse multiple genres. It exemplifies a synthesis of tradition and modernity in a single production.

BM: You are one of the significant actors in Anatolian pop and have used innovative methods on instruments and recording techniques. Can you share some stories or challenges you faced while recording your early works?

MÖ: A hallmark of my artistry is my avant-garde approach to instrumentation. Most notably, I augmented my guitar with additional frets to perform Turkish folk songs in their authentic modal structures. This meticulous adaptation allowed me to remain true to the essence of Turkish makam while incorporating contemporary influences. The album also holds historical significance, being Turkey’s first stereo production. During the mixing phase, we employed stereo features by strategically placing instruments to the left or right channels. Intriguingly, some have even regarded this work as a precursor to the hip-hop genre due to its rhythmic innovation and instrumental layering.

BM: You’ve recently teamed up with a seven-piece Belgian band for your live performances. What has this collaboration brought to your music, and how do you approach blending your classic sound with new influences?

MÖ: The Belgian Orchestra accompanying me originated in 2015 as part of the Europalia Arts Festival. Composed of exceptionally talented musicians, many of whom are luminaries in their own right, this group was initially assembled to support my performances at the festival. Since then, they have been invaluable collaborators in both my domestic and international concerts. Their contribution was particularly significant in my Funk Anatolian album, recorded in Brussels in 2016, where they helped breathe life into my music through their expertise and global perspective.

BM: As an artist with such a rich history, what would you consider your greatest musical achievement to date, and why?

MÖ : Of my numerous accomplishments—spanning 18 instrumental albums—Gençlik İle Elele undeniably remains my magnum opus. The enduring allure of this work lies in its innovative spirit and its seamless integration of diverse musical styles, resonating with audiences across generations and cultures.

BM: Looking ahead, what future projects or albums are you currently working on? Are there any particular directions or collaborations you’re excited to explore?

MÖ : While I currently have no plans for a new album, my forthcoming concert at London’s Jazz Café holds immense importance for me. Beyond that, I am open to exploring new opportunities and proposals that may arise, ensuring that my musical journey continues to evolve.

Step into a time capsule and experience the soul-stirring sounds of the 1970s as Mustafa Özkent and his band take the stage in Camden’s famous venue The Jazz Cafe on 15th January. Mustafa Özkent will deliver a mesmerizing evening of Turkish psychedelia, blending electrifying funk grooves, hypnotic folk melodies, and cutting-edge instrumental artistry that has captivated music enthusiasts for decades. Don’t miss this musical feast to witness a living legend perform tracks from the iconic Gençlik İle Elele album—a cornerstone of Anatolian rock history. For lovers of timeless, genre-defying music, this is more than a concert; it’s a cultural pilgrimage.

Barış Mumcu

1.1.2025