About me:

50 year old Singer from Çemişgezek, Amsterdam, Turkey Aynur Doğan is a prominent Kurdish-Turkish singer and musician, celebrated for her powerful voice and dedication to preserving and modernizing Kurdish folk music. Born in the mountainous town of Çemişgezek in Tunceli Province, Turkey, Aynur's early life was deeply rooted in the rich cultural traditions of the Kurdish Alevi community.

In 1992, seeking greater opportunities, Aynur moved to Istanbul, where she enrolled in the Arif Sağ Music School. There, she studied the saz (a traditional Turkish stringed instrument) and vocal techniques under the guidance of esteemed instructors, including Begüm Erdem and Aşkın Metiner. This formal training laid the foundation for her future musical endeavors.

Her debut album, Seyir, was released in 2001, marking the beginning of her professional music career. However, it was her 2004 album, Keçe Kurdan (Kurdish Girl), that catapulted her to national and international acclaim. The title track became an anthem of Kurdish identity and resilience. Despite facing political challenges, including a temporary ban on the album by Turkish authorities, Aynur's music resonated deeply with audiences worldwide.

In 2005, Aynur gained further recognition with her appearance in Fatih Akin's documentary film Crossing the Bridge: The Sound of Istanbul, which showcased her unique blend of traditional Kurdish melodies and contemporary sounds.

Throughout her career, Aynur has released several albums, including Nûpel (2005), Rewend (2010), and Hedûr (2020). Her music often addresses themes of love, longing, and the Kurdish experience, bridging cultural divides and fostering understanding through her emotive performances.

Beyond her musical achievements, Aynur has been an advocate for cultural preservation and women's rights. She has performed at various international festivals and collaborated with renowned artists, including Yo-Yo Ma and the Silk Road Ensemble.

In recognition of her contributions to world music, Aynur was honored with the prestigious WOMEX 2021 Artist of the Year Award. This accolade underscores her impact on the global music scene and her role in elevating Kurdish music to international audiences.