UZI: The Pioneering Force of Turkish Rap

Uzi, born Uğur Karakuş, is a Turkish rapper and songwriter who emerged as a defining voice in the country's hip-hop scene. Hailing from Istanbul, he achieved mainstream dominance with his 2017 album "Aman" and its chart-topping singles, cementing his status as a multi-platinum-selling artist.

Early career

Uğur Karakuş was born in 1991 in Istanbul and began his musical journey in the late 2000s. He first gained attention through online platforms and collaborations within the underground Turkish rap community, leading to his debut mixtape "Uzi" in 2014.

Breakthrough

His major breakthrough arrived in 2017 with the release of his debut studio album "Aman" under the label Pasaj Müzik. The album's massive success, driven by its fusion of trap beats with Turkish melodies, propelled Uzi to national fame and earned several platinum certifications for its singles.

Key tracks

Aman — The title track from his breakthrough album became a cultural phenomenon and a definitive anthem of modern Turkish rap.

Godzilla — Featuring a sample from the classic Turkish song "Gülüm Benim," this hit single showcased his ability to blend contemporary trap with nostalgic elements.

Firuze — This platinum-certified track further solidified his commercial peak and radio dominance in the late 2010s.

Bi Sonraki Hayatımda Gel — A successful collaboration with fellow rapper Ezhel, highlighting his standing within the genre's elite.

Following this peak, Uzi continued to release successful projects, including the 2019 album "Kan" and subsequent EPs. His work consistently charts high in Turkey, and he remains a sought-after collaborator, working with artists like Murda and Mero, expanding his influence within the European hip-hop landscape.

For fans of Uzi's gritty, melodic take on Turkish trap and hip-hop, the music of similar artists is also featured on our platform. Discover Ezhel, a pioneer who shares a similar raw lyrical style and street-level authenticity. Listen to Murda for another perspective on hard-hitting Turkish rap with international collaborations. Explore Ben Fero, known for his aggressive flow and dark production that aligns with Uzi's earlier work. Check out Ceg, an influential figure in the scene whose versatile style has paved the way for artists like Uzi.

Uzi's catalog receives regular airplay across a variety of online radio streams and independent music radio stations specializing in international hip-hop and modern Turkish sounds. His hits are staples on stations that curate the leading edge of global urban music.

You can hear the music of Uzi on radio stations featured on our website. Listeners can discover his pioneering Turkish rap hits and latest releases through the diverse radio stations available on onairium.com.