Turkey won the Eurovision
Song Contest for the first
time in its 48 year history, with
well known singer Sertab Erener
blowing away the opposition with her
English language rendition of Every
Way That I Can, a lively
number supported by a belly dancing
backing group.
Turkey’s entry garnered 167 points,
pipping the Belgium number by just two
points. Erener and her group only won
in the final of the 26 rounds of voting.
With just Slovenia left to vote, Turkey
was in second place, trailing the Belgians
by seven. However, with the leaders
only getting three points, they finished
with just 165 and with the maximum 12
points going to Turkey, Erener vaulted
into first place.
A
notable feature of the voting was
that Greek Cyprus gave Turkey eight
points, in what the Greek Cypriot
presenter said was a sign of peace.
It was the first time that Greek Cyprus
has ever awarded points to a Turkish
entry and the vote was crucial in
Turkey’s win. Another significant
vote was the seven points Turkey gained
from neighbouring Greece.
Speaking after the presentation ceremony
Erener said that she was shocked and
delighted with the win.
Having won the 2003 competition, Turkey
will host next year’s Eurovision
Song Contest, at a venue yet to be
named.
SERTAB ERENER
Born
in Istanbul, Sertab Erener
is one of the most popular and acclaimed
female vocalists in Turkey . As a
colaratura soprano, with a dedication
to music, her individuality shone
through during her six years of musical
education. Her albums have sold now
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 performer was recognized
almost immediately. By 1990 Sertab
was already sharing center – 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 million 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.
A duet
with Ricky Martin, on the single
Private Emotion, for the Turkish
and the Middle East 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 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 in Brussels for the European
media and music press. The album
has found most success in Benelux
countries, where Sertab gave numerous
concerts and appeared at major festivals
including Dranouter, Sfinks, Amsterdam
Roots Festival and Live for Life.
