Cengiz Kurtoğlu

Cengiz Kurtoğlu (b. May 5, 1959, Arhavi, Artvin) was a Turkish musician, pianist, and singer of Laz descent. Completing his education in Artvin, he initially worked as a civil servant at a tea factory in his hometown before founding an orchestra named "Ciha Dağı Efsanesi" in Arhavi to pursue a career in music.

In 1984, Kurtoğlu released his debut album "Sen Sözden Anlamaz Mısın," setting off a successful music career. Known for songs like "Unutulan," "Gelin Etmişler," and "Küllenen Aşk," he became recognized as a prominent figure in taverna music, often delving into themes of love and heartache in his lyrics. Married with three children, Kurtoğlu's musical legacy includes a blend of Arabesque and personal storytelling, resonating with fans as he continued to release albums throughout his career.