Yahya Cekirge Semih Rastgeldi Abdullah Yanik Direct
Yahya Çekirge, Semih Rastgeldi, and Abdullah Yanık are traditional Turkish folk musicians, best known for their collaborative work in the culture of Şanlıurfa. Often joined by Akif Çekirge, they formed a group that preserved and popularized the regional music of Southeast Anatolia through several albums and live performances, such as the Asbap Geceleri series. The Sound of Urfa: A Musical Story
: A high-energy track often performed at celebrations and weddings. Yahya Cekirge Semih Rastgeldi Abdullah Yanik
: A poignant song about the landscapes and emotional depth of their home city. Yahya Çekirge, Semih Rastgeldi, and Abdullah Yanık are
Together, the group achieved widespread recognition with folk classics like: : A poignant song about the landscapes and
The story of these three men is woven into the historic streets and courtyards of . In the heart of the city, where the aroma of spicy kebabs mingles with the scent of bitter coffee ( mırra ), Yahya, Semih, and Abdullah became the voices of their community.
They didn't just play music; they led —traditional gatherings where friends and neighbors meet to share food, stories, and songs. Yahya Çekirge followed in the footsteps of his father, the master luthier Aziz Çekirge, ensuring that the soul of Urfa's folk tradition remained vibrant for new generations.
Their collaborations, particularly the album Akif Çekirge Eşliğinde Asbap Geceleri, Vol. 2 (2005), captured the authentic atmosphere of these regional gatherings, making them legendary figures in the preservation of .