Tülay German, born on January 27, 1935, in Istanbul, is a renowned Turkish singer and writer whose musical journey began at the tender age of four. She started singing with a natural talent that caught the attention of many.
Tülay German, born on January 27, 1935, in Istanbul, is a renowned Turkish singer and writer whose musical journey began at the tender age of four. She started singing with a natural talent that caught the attention of many.
Tülay German's musical education commenced under the guidance of Ferdi Ştatzer, who taught her to play the piano. During this period, she mesmerized audiences on Ayşe Abla's children's program on Ankara Radio by singing Schubert's 'Serenade' and 'Ihlamur Ağacı.'
After completing her education at Ankara Maarif Koleji, Tülay German graduated from Üsküdar American High School in Istanbul in 1956. Without her family's knowledge, she courageously took the stage at Süreyya Gazino in Ankara. In the years 1960-1962, she made a name for herself as a jazz singer. She became the first Turkish vocalist to be featured on Hulki Saner's program 'Melodi Kervanı' on Istanbul Radio, where she sang jazz songs on Salim Ağırbaş Beşlisi's weekly shows.
In the early years of her musical career, Tülay German received lessons from the esteemed Turkish folk singer Ruhi Su at Atıf Yılmaz's home. She enriched her repertoire by learning folk songs from Aşık Nesimi Çimen and Aşık Ali İzzet, performing them with a contemporary touch. In the 1960s, she performed in quartet concerts alongside other musicians. She collaborated with Timur Selçuk on several album projects.
In 1966, Tülay German traveled to Paris to record her albums. She recorded ten records in French, which gained popularity in France, Belgium, Germany, Poland, Tunisia, Morocco, the Netherlands, and Brazil. She performed concerts and appeared on various radio and television programs in these countries. Notably, she shared the stage with prominent artists such as Charles Aznavour, Lèo Ferre, and Moody Blues in some of France's most prestigious concert halls. She also filled Ilhan Mimaroğlu's 'Tract' album for the United States market.
Besides her illustrious music career, Tülay German is also an accomplished writer. She has published two books and has been contributing articles to the Adam Sanat magazine since 1999.
Tülay German's journey as a singer, artist, and writer will forever be celebrated and cherished, leaving an enduring imprint on the hearts of music enthusiasts both in Turkey and across the globe. Her passionate performances, soulful renditions, and remarkable contributions to Turkish music remain an inspiration for generations to come.