Exclusive Interview: Melis Bilen on Her Music Journey from Istanbul to London’s Vibrant Scene

In our ongoing series exploring the experiences of Turkish creatives thriving in London, we had the pleasure of speaking with Melis Bilen, a talented singer, songwriter, and performer who has seamlessly blended her Turkish musical roots with the dynamic music scene of the UK. This interview is part of a larger feature on Turkish professionals in London’s creative industries, where we dive into their stories, challenges, and inspirations. For more insights on the broader Turkish creative community in London, check out our previous article: Turkish Creatives in the Vibrant Fabric of London.

TB Magazine: Melis, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?

Melis Bilen: Hello! I was born in Istanbul and graduated from Darüşşafaka High School. Later, I studied engineering at Sabancı University, focusing on industrial engineering. Although engineering was my academic path, music was always my true passion. After university, I started performing at talent shows and small concerts, which led me to explore a career in music.

TB Magazine: How does the music scene in the UK differ from Turkey? Has it influenced your musical style?

Melis Bilen: One of the main reasons I moved to the UK was to create English music and reach a global audience. The music environment here is incredibly open and free compared to Turkey, where there’s often pressure to pursue more secure careers like engineering or medicine. This freedom has allowed me to experiment more with my music and expand my vision. The UK’s multicultural and diverse scene has influenced not just my musical style, but also my visual aesthetics and stage presence.

TB Magazine: Your Turkish musical roots are an essential part of your identity. How do these influences manifest in your music here in the UK?

Melis Bilen: Absolutely, I am deeply connected to my Turkish roots. There is a rich synthesis in Turkish music that I try to reflect in my compositions and performances. Collaborating with different musicians, especially DJs, has helped me bring a fusion of sounds into my work. I’ve created both English and Turkish songs, and I believe this duality gives my music a unique character. My latest single, Let’s Do It Now, captures this blend of upbeat pop with subtle ethnic influences.

TB Magazine: How have you navigated the challenges of building a music career in the UK? What advice would you give to emerging artists?

Melis Bilen: One of the biggest challenges was establishing a network here. When you move to a new country, you don’t have the support system you grew up with. I started by attending open mic nights and performing wherever I could. Through these events, I met various musicians and organizers who helped me get in touch with venue owners. It was a gradual process, but it taught me the importance of perseverance. My advice to new musicians is to be patient, take every opportunity to perform, and focus on building genuine connections in the industry.

TB Magazine: What does being a part of the Turkish music community in the UK mean to you?

Melis Bilen: It means a lot. The Turkish music community in the UK is incredibly talented, and we support each other in so many ways. London, in particular, serves as a fantastic platform for Turkish musicians to showcase their talent. I’ve collaborated with several Turkish artists here, and we’ve been able to create beautiful projects that blend traditional and contemporary sounds. I’m excited about the future and look forward to more collaborations that celebrate our heritage while embracing the diversity of the UK music scene.

TB Magazine: What are your plans for the future? Can we expect new music or projects soon?

Melis Bilen: Absolutely! I’m currently working on a few new singles, blending Turkish lyrics with contemporary pop sounds. I’m also planning a series of performances across the UK, focusing on intimate venues where I can connect closely with the audience. Beyond music, I’m exploring visual projects that complement my songs, as I believe in a holistic approach to creativity. Stay tuned—there’s much more to come!