We’ve been playlisting Güz Erdem a lot on Phoenix FM recently – but who is he? We spoke to Güz to find out more about the man and his music.

Tell us a little bit about yourself?

I’m a musician, photographer, and 3D designer based in Turkey. I also speak six languages am fluent in coding too.

When did you first develop a passion for music?

My passion for music started at a young age – I was only 10 years old when I started writing and performing music – and I quickly started to develop and hone my craft.

Which artists do you enjoy listening to?

Herbie Hancock is a major influence on my style. Jazz pianists have always fascinated me, and from the moment I started studying music and jazz theory, Hancock’s style always had a different spot in my mind.

What music have you released to date?

I’ve released two EPs and nine singles. My most popular songs include “You Are Your Own Light, Pt.2” and “Transcendence”.

I have seen my fanbase expand with each release and currently have 10,000 monthly listeners all over the world, a figure which is still growing.

What inspires you to write your songs?

Listening to great music has always fascinated me – my interests have been foundational to my growth as an artist and a human being.

On my recent EP “A Rainy Night in My Room” I created a concept record which features evocative songs such as “Drizzle”, “Storm”, and “Fog”. My music is infused with symbolism, and I often focus on a theme for my songs.

I have also created a suite of “You Are Your Own Light” singles that have diverse energy, yet follow the same emotions and ideas.

How do you record your music?

I’m a one-man-band and I record all of the instruments in my songs. Not only does this make the production period last longer, but it also makes live performances more difficult, but my persistent love for music production and theory allows me to produce the highest quality jazz music, regardless of the challenges I face.

You’ve been branching out into production too recently, is that right?

That’s right – since January 2020 I’ve been pursuing music production on a professional level, and my knowledge, musical instinct, and extensive years of experience in recording has helped me to become a successful engineer in the industry.

How would you describe your life philosophy?

I would say it’s centred on self-improvement and overcoming challenges to grow and develop. I have always focused on my dreams and goals and I work tirelessly to achieve them and continue to flourish as an artist.

I also incorporate my hobbies into my work life – I have a variety of interests that have turned into fully-fledged careers due to persistence and determination.

I’ve always had a penchant for design and as a result of this I immersed myself in 3D printing and I’m now a 3D designer, well known for my crystal, signature skull, innovative pencil case, and whimsical castle designs. These 3D creations are available for purchase and delivery, and I also offer custom requests.

What are your plans for the future?

I will continue to do what I do best – producing fine jazz music. Pursuing originality in my compositions, production quality, and style, I will keep presenting gems to be discovered to the jazz listeners of the world.

Other than music and design, do you have any other interests?

If all this wasn’t enough, I am also an avid photographer. My work varies from street photography to stunning natural landscapes. My portfolio spans from London to Istanbul, showcasing familiar and iconic images such as The London Eye and romantic sunsets with a unique and distinctive perspective. Photography allows me to capture the essence of my subjects with my personal perspective and vision.

Where can people find our more about you?

My official website is at www.guzerdem.com where you can see more about my music, design and photography.

I’m also on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram as well as all streaming platforms including Apple Music, Spotify, Youtube Music and SoundCloud.