With “Aşk”, Rec Rocero steps into the light of love and renewal. Released on July 25, 2025, the single is an ode to hope, inspired by the warmth his partner brought after a time of struggle. Recorded at Kijkduin Beach in the Netherlands, the track is paired with a vivid drone-shot video that mirrors the song’s brightness.
Behind the music is Recep Işık, better known as Rec Rocero, a cornerstone of Anatolian Rock and longtime member of Kurtalan Ekspres. Once sharing the stage with the legendary Barış Manço — who personally gave him his stage name — Rocero carries forward a legacy while charting his own solo path.
For those who might not know you yet, how would you introduce yourself?
I’m Rec Rocero, born Recep Işık. I’m of Turkish origin, living in the Netherlands, but my heart beats with universal rhythms. My music is a reflection of love, pain, hope, and the ups and downs of life. My songs carry emotions born from my own experiences, and through them, I try to bring different cultures together.
If you had to bottle up your sound into just three words, which ones would you choose?
Emotion, passion, and bridge—those three words capture my music. My songs come straight from the heart, I live them passionately on stage, and above all, I see music as a cultural bridge.
Which artists (not only music-related) or moments have left the biggest mark on your music?
The deepest mark on my life was losing my wife. Her love, and the pain I felt after her passing, live in every song I write. Musically, I’m inspired by the emotion of Turkish music, the vitality of Latin melodies, and the energy of Western pop.
When you hit play on your songs, what kind of feeling takes over?
Every time I press play on one of my songs, my heart races again. My past, my memories, my emotions—all of it rushes back like a film reel. But the most powerful feeling is the connection I share with listeners, and that brings me indescribable joy.
Can you walk us through the story or emotion behind this track?
My latest Turkish–Spanish duet grew from my desire to build a bridge between cultures. Love, longing, and passion are universal. That’s why I wanted to speak to people in different languages, but with the same heart.
If you could team up with anyone in the world—no limits—who would be that dream collaborator?
Performing alongside Shakira or Tarkan would be a dream. They are not just musicians but forces of energy and identity. To share the stage with them would be to embody the spirit of universal music.
Outside of music, what brings you joy or keeps you grounded?
Outside of music, my greatest strength comes from my family and my daughter. Nature walks and friendships with people from different cultures also inspire and ground me.
Do you have a favourite quote, ritual or mantra that keeps you motivated on tough days?
I always remind myself: “Music never stops; if the heart beats, there is hope.” Even on my darkest days, stepping into the studio and touching a melody restores my life energy.
