EDIS: Turkish pop star live in Zurich

As one of Turkey’s best-known pop stars and one of Southwest Asia’s defining cultural figures, EDIS is on the verge of taking his first major step into Europe. Born in London and raised in Izmir, Edis Görgülü is now a household name from Istanbul to the Gulf, thanks to one billion YouTube views, multiple number-one hits, and major accolades including Best Male Artist at the Golden Butterfly Awards.

As a Vogue Türkiye cover star, he ranks among the region’s most influential pop artists. His 2021 single “Martılar” became one of the most-streamed songs of the year in Turkey. His 2025 album Bachi-Bouzouk further expanded his reach across the region, while his arena concerts in Istanbul and beyond have long attracted audiences extending far beyond Turkey’s borders. Just last summer, he performed at Dua Lipa’s Sunny Hill Festival.

Turkish artists are reaching global audiences on an unprecedented scale, and international streaming figures have risen rapidly over the past decade. As music streaming continues to break down language barriers, non-English-language music is more exportable than ever. The question is no longer whether a Turkish pop artist can break through globally, but who will be next — and when.

EDIS is the most likely answer. This European tour, taking him through some of the continent’s best mid-sized venues, is one of those rare opportunities to get on board early. In November, the audience will no longer be exclusively Turkish-speaking. The music itself needs no translation.