Meet Jeyhan | Musician (Singer/Songwriter, Performer, and Producer)

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jeyhan and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jeyhan, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I was born in Rochester, New York, but both of my parents were born in Turkey and immigrated to the US. I use to shy away from embracing my Turkish culture growing up because I felt as if I wouldn’t fit in with the rest of the kids at the school I went to. As I’ve gotten older, I have reconnected with my upbringing and culture and appreciate it so much now. I have even started to incorporate Turkish/Middle Eastern influences in my music, which I am so excited about because it is a fresh new sound that’s not too common in pop music right now. I really think that the importance of music and dance in Turkish culture is what made me fall in love with music and entertainment so much because a big part of my childhood was spent dancing with family members and singing with each other!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am an R&B/soul-influenced pop artist from the Washington D.C. area. My music is regarded as a unique blend of Beyoncé, Prince, and Turkish singer Tarkan’s work. I think that my mixture of modern R&B, pop, and trap sounds with Middle Eastern influences sets me apart as an artist. I grew up in a large (and very loud) Turkish family in Rochester, New York. Music and entertainment has always been a significant part of my life as every member of his family is an advocate for nightly dance parties and album listening sessions. Growing up, my sister, parents, cousins, aunts, uncles, and even grandmother, spent what seemed like every single night learning the dances to the newest Destiny’s Child video or singing along to Tarkan’s latest album. I attribute much of my musical interest to my family’s appreciation for the arts. As a first generation Turkish-American, I have learned from my family that a strong work ethic leads to success and embracing individuality is crucial in fighting for one’s voice to be heard. In simplest terms, I am an entertainer that, through my music, urge people to champion diversity, encourage transparency, and love deeply.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I LOVE my Turkish food, so I would definitely take them to Mandolin Aegean Bistro, which is a Turkish/Greek restaurant. I don’t eat out much, but this place is literally the one exception and I always go for a special occasion! I would also take a visiting friend to Whip ‘n Dip because it has such chill, family-owned vibes and the service is amazing as well as the quality of the ice cream! In regard to activities, I would definitely take someone to Crandon Beach Park to walk along the shore and look out at the beautiful cove near the far end. I go here alone a lot to get some peace of mind and get some fresh air. It has very peaceful vibes early in the morning and fun family vibes on weekend afternoons (something for everyone)! I would also love to take a friend to Pinecrest Gardens, specifically when they host live music performances because the venue is gorgeous!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would love to shoutout my family for always supporting me in every endeavor and for being by my side even in life’s hardest moments. They inspire me so much to be the best version of myself.

Website: http://jeyhanmusic.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_jeyhan_/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeyhanturker/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/_jeyhan_?lang=en

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jeyhanturker/

Youtube: https://youtu.be/7d57nWcEBvQ

Other: Original Music Landing Page: http://hyperurl.co/JEYHAN

Image Credits
Margaret Wadsworth (B&W Photos), Danielle Jacoby (Colored Beach Photos).