Verbal And Musical Multi-Dimensional Content Analysis Of Turkish Arabesque Music (Example Of Orhan Gencebay)

Abstract

This study aims to reveal the impact of Turkish arabesque music on society by conducting a multidimensional content analysis of the works of Orhan Gencebay, one of the genre's most significant representatives. Within this scope, the title tracks from 25 of Gencebay’s albums were analyzed. Throughout the second half of the 20th century, Gencebay left a lasting impression on Turkish music, resonating with a wide audience both musically and socially. His songs revolve around themes such as love, sadness, separation, and social issues. Through his music, Gencebay sheds light on the emotional struggles, identity quests, and cultural adaptation challenges faced by rural migrants during Turkey’s urbanization process, using his art as a platform that mirrors societal issues. In this sense, he has evolved from merely a musician to a cultural figure who captures the emotional needs and social transformations of the people. This study also aims to explore the depth of thematic elements in Turkish arabesque music, analyzing how these elements are reflected in society.

The study also examines the intricate connections between lyrics and music in Orhan Gencebay's works. Gencebay frequently employs the Kurdi, Nihavent, and Hijaz maqams in his songs, which imbue his compositions with emotional depth. These maqams enhance the thematic content of the songs, offering listeners a profound emotional experience. Additionally, the study analyzes the instrumental arrangements and rhythmic structures in Gencebay's music, revealing that these elements are harmoniously aligned with the lyrical meaning, thereby creating a deeply impactful experience for the audience. Gencebay's songs vividly portray social issues, emotional traumas, and the quest for individual identity, using an expressive and evocative language. His art is regarded as a guide for individuals in their search for identity and as a means of observing social changes over time. Within this framework, Gencebay's works are evaluated not only as musical innovations but also as socio-cultural phenomena, serving as a valuable resource for understanding the effects of societal dynamics through his music. His songs thus stand as an archive of Turkey’s transformation process, playing a crucial role in understanding the influence of arabesque music on society.