Show can go on for ‘rock singer imam’

ANTALYA – Doğan News Agency

Having obtained the blessing of Turkey’s Religious Affairs Directorate, Ahmet Muhsin Tüzer vows to rock on. He will be on stage at Finike next June 22.

An imam who sings in a rock band and became the center of media attention after releasing an album will only receive a “warning” from Turkey’s Religious Affairs Directorate (Diyanet), after the end of a nine-month internal investigation.

The Diyanet has dismissed meting out a bigger punishment to Ahmet Muhsin Tüzer, but has warned the imam over his statements to the media regarding the investigation.

The front vocalist of the band “FiRock” welcomed the decision, hailing the “tolerance” displayed by Turkey’s religious body.

“The decision of the institution to which I am proud to be a member of is in line with basic human rights, the law and the beauty of our religion. Legal litigation is not something proper for us, who are dedicated to faith and Islam. I hope that this approach and tolerance will continue in the future,” said Tüzer following the decision.

Tüzer reiterated that his musical career was not at all incompatible with his profession. “The main reason why I am doing this music is to reach out to millions of young people who are in love with rock music so that they can know and appreciate our values. I transmit an invitation for the divine road with rock music,” Tüzer said.

“FiRock” is not a junk band and includes renowned musicians such as Doğan Sakin – founder and guitarist of the famous Turkish rock singer Erkin Koray’s Kramp band – and drummer İdris Tübcil.
The band gave its first concert last year on Aug. 10, drawing so much attention that they were even invited to perform in New York.

Tüzer said he was completely overwhelmed by the positive response to their music, vowing to rock on. His next concert will be staged in Antalya’s Finike district on June 22.