Can Leman

Connecting cultures with music and words – this is Can Leman. A bridge between Anatolia and the Mediterranean, he weaves traditional sounds into a contemporary global musical tapestry. Born in Germany into a family deeply rooted in literature and music, Can grew up surrounded by the voices of Anatolian poets, folk melodies, and philosophical discourse.

In 2019, seeking a deeper connection to his musical roots, Can traveled to Istanbul to study Maqam music under Cavit Murtezaoğlu. This experience reshaped his understanding of music as a vessel for cultural memory and human connection. In 2023, he met the legendary Zülfü Livaneli in Athens, and a year later, in November 2024, they shared a profound conversation on culture and literature, which redefined Can’s artistic path.

In 2024, Can collaborated with Greek singer Miltos Paschalidis to record the song "Fotia Mou" in Turkish and Greek. This marked his return to the stage after a five-year hiatus, with performances alongside Paschalidis and Yiannis Kotsiras in Athens. In July, he performed at the Athens City Garden Festival, further solidifying his presence in the Greek music scene.

Encouraged by Livaneli, Can made a radical shift, leaving behind mainstream pop to focus on music with depth and cultural resonance. In 2025, he began filming the major music video for "Fotia Mou" and published his first book. Further collaborations with Miltos Paschalidis, Fuat Saka, and other Mediterranean artists are planned for the year.