Ezhel - Live in Europe 2026

Ezhel, born Sercan Ipekçioglu on July 1, 1990, in Ankara, Turkey, and now a Berlin resident, is one of the most influential figures in the rap scenes of Turkey and Germany. Growing up in the vibrant yet challenging streets of Ankara, Ezhel was exposed to a diverse range of musical influences from an early age, including reggae, hip-hop, and Anatolian rock. His passion for music began in his teenage years, as he started experimenting with freestyling and performing in underground rap battles.

From Ankara to Berlin

Ezhel’s early sound was shaped by a mix of genres and lived experience:

• Reggae
• Hip-hop
• Anatolian rock

Through freestyling and underground rap battles in his teenage years, he developed the authenticity and emotional depth that would later define his work.

Breakthrough with Müptezhel

Ezhel’s breakthrough came with his debut album Müptezhel in 2017, which quickly became a cultural phenomenon in Turkey. Blending rap with reggae and trap elements, the album was praised for its raw lyricism and storytelling about:

• Urban life
• Societal issues
• The struggles of youth

Songs like “Sehrimin Tadi” and “Geceler” resonated deeply with a generation facing economic and social challenges, establishing Ezhel as the voice of Turkish youth.

Resilience, Freedom of Expression, and Controversy

Despite facing legal challenges—including arrests for allegedly promoting drug use in his lyrics—Ezhel’s popularity only grew. He became a symbol of resistance and freedom of expression in Turkey, using his platform to highlight the realities of life for many young people in the country.

Collaborations and Global Reach

Ezhel’s collaborations with global artists such as Aitch, Luciano, Gentleman, and Ufo361 have further expanded his reach, strengthening his place in the global hip-hop community. Today, Ezhel continues to push the boundaries of rap music, using his music as a powerful tool for storytelling and social commentary.