Born in Istanbul, Sertab Erener is one of the most popular and acclaimed female vocalists in Turkey. As a coloratura soprano, with a dedication to music, her individuality shone through during her six years of musical education. Her albums have now sold over 4 million copies; her tours are sold-out and she has received gold and platinum awards for every album she has released.
Following graduation, Sertab began working as a professional singer performing at well-known cabaret clubs in Istanbul. Her unique talent as a singer and performer was recognised almost immediately. By 1990 Sertab was already sharing centre-stage with well-established Turkish singers such as Sezen Aksu, whose encouragement helped pave the way to the creation of Sakin Ol, her first album. Released in 1992 it sold over 1,000,000 copies and became the best selling debut album, ever in Turkey. Her second album, Lal came out in 1994, followed by Sertab Gibi in 1997, Sertab Erener in 1999 and Turuncu in 2001.
Sertab's recording career in Turkey has earned her multiple awards, and her spectacular live performances have won her an army of devoted fans. From Opera to Pop, Sertab's amazing vocal versatility and unforgettable stage presence has led to her to duet with world famous singers, Jose Carreras and Ricky Martin. As the best selling female pop star in Turkey and with her success well established at home, Sertab is now heading for the international stage.
A duet with Ricky Martin on the single Private Emotion, for the Turkish and Middle Eastern versions of Martin's 99 English language album, successfully introduced Sertab to new audiences outside of Turkey. During the recording of this track in Miami, she also worked closely with world-famous producer, Desmond Child.
In addition, Sertab's 1994 recording Lal, was chosen for Sony's "Soundtrack For A Century" box-set. Sertab, was the one and only Turkish artist, to be included in this 26 CD box set which features more than 500 songs that Sony describe as being `the most influential music from the last 100 years'. Sertab has also collaborated with David Palmer of Jethro Tull and Simon Emmerson of Afro Celt Sound System for various projects.
In February 2000, Sertab released her self-titled first European album. It included her greatest hits and a number of new songs. Sertab launched the album with a stunning showcase in Brussels for the European media and music press. The album has found most success in the Benelux countries, where Sertab gave numerous concerts and appeared at major festivals including Dranouter, Sfinks, Amsterdam Roots Festival and Live For Life. Following the launch of this album, the door to European success has opened and Sertab, Turkey's leading Lady of Song is on the path to international stardom.
A great new opportunity has now arisen for Sertab to represent herself and her country in Europe. Sertab has been chosen by Turkish State Radio and Television (TRT) to represent Turkey at the 2003 Eurovision song contest, in Riga on May 24'th. Working closely Ozan Colakoglu (who also teamed up with Turkish superstar Tarkan on the worldwide hit “Simarik” a few years back) Sertab has delivered a fantastic track entitled “Everyway That I can” .The song is written by Sertab and Demir Demirkan and is the first ever Turkish Eurovision entry to be sung in English. “Everyway That I Can” is already a huge hit in Europe and is tipped to be the summer smash in Europe for 2003.Try to catch Sertab's live performance in a place next to you this summer & fall and witness her talent and enthusiasm which you won't forget soon.
