Omar Alkilani on 1+1 Express | SYRIAN STREET MUSICIANS - Migration Changes Us All

As Beyoğlu, a historic district in Istanbul, undergoes transformation, the soundscape of its main thoroughfare, İstiklâl Avenue, is now dominated by Arabic, Persian, and Kurdish songs. This Turkish language article explores the cultural impact of Syrian street musicians, like Omar Alkilani, who have become key actors in this new urban tableau. Amidst socio-economic changes and the socio-political landscape shaped by the state of emergency, the presence of these musicians highlights the ongoing evolution of public spaces in Turkey's largest city. Their stories reflect the broader experiences of refugees, emphasizing how migration reshapes both migrant lives and the host society, fostering new cultural interactions and mutual understanding. Omar Alkilani's journey from Aleppo to Istanbul and his influence as a musician exemplify the resilience and cultural contribution of refugees in Turkey.
In the article "1+1 Express," published one of the videos captures Omar Alkilani and his band "Mood Band" performing on İstiklâl Avenue in Istanbul.