Iconic Turkish Rapper Is Label’s First International Signing

Turkish rapper, DJ and fashion icon Lil Zey has signed a record deal with Atlantic Records Germany. It’s the first time that the label, which launched last year, has signed an artist from outside Germany.

Lil Zey burst onto the scene in 2019 and quickly built an enormous fanbase. She has collaborated with international artists, featuring with German rapper Luciano on his ‘ELMAS’ project, which has generated more than 47 million streams on Spotify alone. Her debut album Kara Tiyaro was released in 2021 and contains the hit single ‘Heveslenmem’, which has generated almost 40 million streams to date.

Originally from Izmir on Turkey’s Aegean coast, she moved to the US to study at Berklee College of Music in Boston, before moving to Atlanta to work at RedZone Entertainment for Grammy award-winning record producer Tricky Stewart and Terius “The Dream” Nash. She relocated back to Turkey and is now based in Istanbul.

Fabian Drebes, Co-President Warner Music Central Europe, says: “We are excited to work with Lil Zey. Together with our existing artist roster, she sets new standards for creativity and artistry, while representing a global and diverse approach to the music world – an approach which is integral to Atlantic Records Germany.”

Natascha Augustin, VP of A&R at Warner Chappell Music Germany, who also oversees strategy at Atlantic Records Germany, adds: “Lil Zey is the first female rapper in Turkey’s trap scene and has already worked with some of the most interesting artists here in Germany. We can’t wait to support her as she grows her career, introducing her to new audiences around the world.”