Yalan Gözlerin - Suat Sayın - 20th Century Turkish Music

"Yalan Gözlerin" (Your Deceptive Eyes) is a Turkish song composed by Suat Sayın with lyrics by Rıza Tevfik Bölükbaşı. It is performed in the Hicaz makam (mode) and follows the Nîm sofyan rhythmic pattern. The song is structured in the form of a traditional Turkish şarkı (song).

Suat Sayın (1932 - 2006) was born in Fatih, Istanbul. He completed his education at Vefa High School. Starting his musical journey at the age of 12 by playing the ud, Suat Sayın became a skilled composer and musician. In 1952, he worked as a ud player and artist at Ankara Radio, where he also taught notation, rhythm, and modes to aspiring artists. In 1958, Suat Sayın began his work as a composer. His first composition, the song "Gözlerimin Yaşını Silemiyorum," ( I cannot wipe away the tears in my eyes) dates back to that year. In 1960, he left the radio and recorded his first single, "Postacı."(Postman) He made his first stage performance in 1967 at Ankara Lunapark Gazinosu. Suat Sayın's compositions were mostly influenced by Arabic music, with a focus on love as a recurring theme. Some music authorities categorized his works as "arabesque" due to his pioneering efforts in polyphonic and externally sourced music. Upon closer examination, it is evident that his compositions were meticulously crafted with intricate motifs in terms of mode and rhythm. His compositions can be found in various contexts, ranging from dance music in taverns to Turkish Art Music repertoires. Suat Sayın had a rich archive of music. He passed away on December 7, 2006.

Turkish Lyrics

Kalbimde gizli bir sevgi mi arar?
Gözlerime bakıp dalan gözlerin,
Aklıma gelmeyen bilmece sorar.
Beni hülyalara salan gözlerin,
Aşka inanmayan o yalan gözlerin.

Rüyadır belki de bütün ümitler,
Gözlerin aklımı perişan eyler,
Aşk masalından şarkılar söyler.
Beni hülyalara salan gözlerin,
Aşka inanmayan o yalan gözlerin.

English Translation

Does it search for a hidden love in my heart?
Your eyes, gazing into mine,
Asking riddles that never cross my mind.
Your eyes that enchant me into dreams,
Those deceitful eyes that don't believe in love.

Perhaps all hopes are but dreams,
Your eyes leave my mind in turmoil,
Singing songs from the tale of love.
Your eyes that enthrall me into dreams,
Those deceitful eyes that don't believe in love.