Nilüfer Yanya, who resurfaced in the spotlight with her appearance at Apple’s latest launch, has captured the attention of not only the tech world but also music lovers. So, who is this talented artist who has made a name for herself on the international stage with her unique style and captivating songs?
Who is Nilüfer Yanya, and How Did Her Music Shape Her?
Born in London on May 11, 1995, Nilüfer Yanya grew up in an artistic family. Her father, Turkish-born painter Ali Yanya, and her Barbadian textile designer mother shaped her cultural identity and connection to art. This rich cultural heritage is reflected in Nilüfer’s music, allowing her to create a unique style that blends Western sounds with Eastern tones.

Yanya’s passion for music began at an early age, and she developed a solid foundation by studying both classical piano and guitar. Inspired by artists like The xx, Nina Simone, and Jeff Buckley, the artist quickly found her own voice. Yanya, whose fragile yet powerful vocals in her songs deeply captivate listeners, has also earned the acclaim of music critics.
Nilüfer Yanya embarked on her professional music journey in 2016 with her EP “Small Crimes/Keep on Calling,” quickly gaining a prominent place in the independent music scene. Her debut studio album, “Miss Universe,” released in 2019, reached a wide international audience with hits like “In Your Head” and “Heat Rises.” With this album, Yanya demonstrated that she’s not just a musician but also an artist who tells stories through profound lyrics.
It’s become a tradition for Apple to feature Turkish artists in its launches and projects. The company, which has featured bands like Altın Gün in the past, also collaborated with Turkish illustrators for Apple Music’s exclusive playlist covers.
So, what are your thoughts on this? Share your thoughts in the comments.