Musician İlhan İrem back on stage after two years

ISTANBUL - Hürriyet Daily News

A veteran of Turkey’s rock music scene, İlhan İrem, will return to the stage after a two year hiatus at Istanbul’s Turkcell Kuruçeşme Arena on Sept. 22 for a concert marking the 39th anniversary of his career in rock.

İrem, who has released 24 albums and won seven golden record awards among other accolades, is considered one of the greatest figures in Turkish music. Although dedicated to continuing to release rock hits, 20 years ago İrem decided not to appear on any radio or television programs or mingle in pop culture circles. Following a performance in 1992 at Istanbul’s Gülhane Park, İrem did not play another public concert for 14 years. In 2006 he treated fans to two concerts, one in Istanbul and one in Ankara. He gave four more rare concerts until 2010. His shows are known for their mystical atmosphere.