APersonIndependent states
Neşet Ertaş
"The plectrum of the steppe" (1938–2012), the last great master of the Central Anatolian abdal tradition, known for "Gönül Dağı".
Neşet Ertaş was born near Kırşehir into a family of abdal musicians who played at weddings. His father Muharrem Ertaş was also a famous bard, and from him Neşet learned the bağlama and the bozlak.
His records appeared from the 1950s; at the end of the 1970s he moved to Germany and lived there for many years. After his return his concerts filled large halls, and a new generation rediscovered him.
Türküs such as "Gönül Dağı", "Neredesin Sen" and "Zahidem" are etched in memory in his voice. He always called himself "the servant of the people" and, as he wished, was buried beside his father in Kırşehir.
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Updated: October 2, 2026