Ezhel

Ezhel, real name Sercan Ýpekçioðlu, born 1 July 1990 in Ankara, Turkey, and now Berlin-based, is one of Turkish and German rap scenes' most influential figures. Growing up in busy but difficult Ankara streets, Ezhel was exposed early to great musical diversity including reggae, hip-hop and Anatolian rock. His music passion emerged in adolescence when he began freestyle experimenting and underground rap battle performing.

His debut album 'Müptezhel', released in 2017, marked true career turning point and quickly became cultural phenomenon in Turkey. This album, blending rap, reggae and trap elements, was praised for lyrics' sincerity addressing urban life, society problems and youth challenges. Tracks like 'Þehrimin Tadý' and 'Geceler' deeply touched generation facing economic and social challenges, establishing Ezhel as Turkish youth's voice.

Despite legal difficulties including arrests allegedly for drug apology promotion in lyrics, Ezhel's popularity only grew. He became resistance and freedom expression symbol in Turkey, using notoriety highlighting reality lived by many young people in the country. His music, recognized for authenticity and emotional depth, earned him loyal audience not only Turkey but internationally.

Ezhel collaborations with international artists like Aitch, Luciano, Gentleman and Ufo361 broadened notoriety making him world hip-hop scene leading figure. Today, Ezhel continues expanding rap boundaries using music as powerful storytelling and social commentary tool, confirming artist place.