Turkish music legend Alpay dies at 91: Cause of death and funeral details
Turkish pop music has lost one of its most recognizable voices. Legendary singer and composer Alpay Nazikioğlu, known simply as Alpay, has died at the age of 91, leaving behind decades of music and songs that became part of Turkey’s cultural history.
The artist passed away on October 14, 2026, while receiving treatment at Medical Park Antalya Hospital, according to Anadolu Agency. His death has brought tributes from fellow musicians and fans who grew up listening to classics such as “Fabrika Kızı,” “Eylül’de Gel” and “Kara Tren.”
What Was Alpay’s Cause of Death?
Alpay’s death was confirmed by Turkish news outlets on Wednesday, October 14. However, **his exact cause of death has not been officially announced.
Anadolu Agency reported that the singer had been receiving treatment at Medical Park Antalya Hospital before his death. Turkish media also reported that he had experienced health problems in recent years, but no specific illness has been publicly confirmed as the cause of his passing.
The singer had spent much of his later life in Bodrum, where he lived with his wife in the Gündoğan neighborhood.
Where Will Alpay’s Funeral Take Place?
According to Anadolu Agency, Alpay’s funeral is planned to take place in Gündoğan, Bodrum, where he had been living with his wife.
However, the initial reports did not provide a confirmed funeral time or complete ceremony schedule. Further details may be announced by his family or local authorities.
News of his death was shared by musician Bora Gencer, who posted a tribute expressing his condolences to Alpay’s family and loved ones. Journalist Nasuh Bektaş also announced the news on social media.
Bodrum Mayor Tamer Mandalinci expressed his sadness over the loss, offering condolences to the artist’s family, fans and the wider arts community.
From Football to Turkish Pop Music
Born in Ankara in 1935, Ahmet Alpay Nazikioğlu did not initially pursue music as his main career. During his younger years, he was passionate about football and played for Ankara Demirspor and Gençlerbirliği. He also earned a place on Turkey’s youth national football team.
Alpay later graduated from Ankara University’s Faculty of Law. However, his passion for music eventually led him in a different direction.
He began his professional music career in the early 1960s and formed his own orchestra in 1964. His musical style combined romantic folk, rock and elements of what became known as Anatolian pop.
He also introduced Turkish audiences to adaptations of French chanson and Italian Neapolitan songs, giving international music a distinctive Turkish interpretation. Throughout his career, he worked with influential musicians, including members of the group Üç Hürel, and released more than 20 albums.
The Songs That Made Alpay a Legend
Alpay became widely known for songs including “Fabrika Kızı,” “Eylül’de Gel,” “Kara Tren,” “Gitme” and “Ayrılık Rüzgarı.” His distinctive voice and emotional interpretations helped his music reach different generations of listeners.
He also brought poems by celebrated Turkish poet Attilâ İlhan to a wider audience through musical interpretations.
His work was not limited to romantic songs. Alpay also addressed social issues through music, including “Ethem’in Sessiz Çığlığı,” a song dedicated to Ethem Sarısülük, who was killed during the 2013 Gezi Park protests.
His career reflected several decades of change in Turkish music, from the early development of Turkish pop to later experimental sounds.
Alpay’s Final Concert Dream Was Never Fulfilled
In 2024, Alpay spoke about his wish to hold a jubilee concert celebrating his long career. The event was expected to take place in April 2026, giving him an opportunity to meet his fans one final time.
However, Turkish media reported that the concert was cancelled because of health problems. The singer died before he could fulfil that wish.
After more than six decades in music, Alpay leaves behind a catalogue of songs that continue to resonate with Turkish audiences. His death marks the end of a remarkable artistic journey, but his music will remain part of the country’s musical memory for years to come.
