There is something special happening with Ayhan Sahin, the talented pop rock artist out of New York. A firm believer in the time-honored tradition of composition and careful attention to detail, Ayhan Sahin's work demonstrates how personal and affecting music can be when the right elements come together. This legitimacy is discernible from other angles. He has a deep understanding of the techniques and traditions of the pop rock genre which is perhaps why the critics had this to say about his award-winning work: ‘Since You've Been Gone' is radio-ready in the intricate fashion of a Lennon cut - its smart melodic contour and anguished vocalization perfectly serve the song's complex aesthetic.’ Reporter Blake Wright recently caught up with this talented artist to learn more about his unique story and his plans for the future.
BLAKE: As an artist on the rise, what is one thing you are most excited about and one thing you are most afraid of happening in your career?
AYHAN SAHIN: As a producer/artist, it is most exciting to work with such diversified singers and having the freedom to get the exact sounds from my head recorded.
BLAKE: Your song ’Since You've Been Gone’ is receiving a positive listener response on radio. What was your initial reaction when you first heard your song playing on radio?
AYHAN SAHIN: I always believed in this song. It is the first song that my collaborator Bernadette O’Reilly and I wrote, so it has a special meaning. It’s always been a favorite of mine because the chorus is so big and so catchy. Having said that, I have faith in this song and believe that it’s going to have a successful future.
BLAKE: What was the inspiration behind your debut radio single?
AYHAN SAHIN: When Bernadette heard the melody, and my hook “Since You’ve Been Gone” she thought of the song “I’m not In Love” by 10CC and modeled the lyrics around that. For me, I always wanted Robbie Williams to record a song of mine, I decided to write a melody that is inspired by his work.
BLAKE: It is often said that great art arises from difficult experience. Is there something in your life experience thus far that you would describe as the ‘catalyst’ or ‘fuel’ for your desire to create music?
AYHAN SAHIN: ABBA.
BLAKE: How would you characterize yourself as an artist/musician? (Ex. Down-to-earth, serious, fun-loving, complicated…)
AYHAN SAHIN: Bernadette O’Reilly answers: “Ayhan is a generous artist, producer and songwriter in the sense that he is very open minded with his collaborators and singers which makes each session a fun, musical and adventurous experience.”
BLAKE: What has your experience been like working with the other people on your team?
AYHAN SAHIN: Living in New York is very fortunate because the pool of talent is among the best in the world and at your fingertips.
BLAKE: Did you come from a musical background? Are there other musicians in your family?
AYHAN SAHIN: No. Both my parents are engineers and my brother is a doctor.
BLAKE: What do you find most rewarding about being an artist? What do you find most challenging?
AYHAN SAHIN: The satisfaction you get when you listen to the mastered track. Everything else is challenging but the biggest challenge is to breakthrough in this day and age.
BLAKE: Who are your role models in music?
AYHAN SAHIN: ABBA.
BLAKE: Describe your best or most memorable performance.
AYHAN SAHIN: I very rarely perform live but one of my best memories as an artist/producer was working with a superstar from my home country who came to New York to record with us.
BLAKE: What advice would you give to young, aspiring artists out there who are unsure and need guidance?
AYHAN SAHIN: Persistence. Never take “No” for an answer. When somebody rejects your work, it’s not because you are not good, it’s because you are not what they are looking for. Don’t take it personally.
BLAKE: What's next for you as an artist? Is there a new single in the works? If so, what can you tell us about it?
AYHAN SAHIN: Our album project “pop” consists of singles released monthly performed by a variety of great singers including me. So far we have 6 released and 6 to go. Once each single has its run, we will release the entire album.`
BLAKE: I look forward to hearing your new work! Thank you for letting us get to know you better as a producer/musician and I wish you the best of luck and continued success.
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