Turkish pop group Manifest released their first English-language single, TRALALA, entering the Spotify Global chart at number 46 on October 9, 2026. The six-member band is preparing for their first UK arena headline show at London’s OVO Arena Wembley on October 16, 2026.
Manifest Takes TRALALA to the Global Stage and Wembley Arena
Turkish pop stars Manifest are setting their sights on global stardom with their debut English-language single, TRALALA. Released on October 9, 2026, the upbeat track entered the Spotify Global chart at No. 46 on its first day with approximately 1.9 million streams worldwide. The song secured the highest position among tracks newly added to the chart that day, outpacing new releases from other artists on global charts.
The group comprises Esin Bahat, Hilal Yelekçi, Lidya Pınar, Mina Solak, Sueda Uluca, and Zeynep Sude Oktay. They formed in February 2025 through the Turkish TV talent competition Big5. During the competition, the members would frequently use the concept of manifestation to encourage themselves, leading them to select the name Manifest for the band.
Following their domestic success, which included releasing their debut album Manifestival and launching a curated music festival of the same name, the sextet relocated to London for a promotional campaign. They are currently filming a six-part Netflix documentary while preparing for their first UK concert at London’s OVO Arena Wembley on October 16, 2026.
Blending Traditional Turkish Sound with Global Pop
TRALALA pairs a glossy pop production with traditional Turkish instruments, incorporating the kemence and darbuka. The track was written and composed by INJI, Jonah Jurick, and Alex Graf, with production by Elber Tutkus and Özcan Sayın. Utku Ünsal managed mixing and mastering, and Caner Güneysu contributed guitar work.
The accompanying music video was directed by Yeeiid and filmed on the streets of East London. It features the group’s signature choreography alongside cultural references including Turkish tea, the nazar boncuğu or evil eye bead, and the expression Maşallah.
The group said that the TRALALA music video was intended to reflect their identity as fun, confident, and energetic, and that while filming in London, they aimed to incorporate elements of their culture.
The group views the single as a deliberate bridge between their origins and international markets. We didn’t want to sound British, because we’re not, but bring the Turkish melodies with English pronunciation,
Uluca stated, adding that they hope to encourage international audiences to sing along in Turkish. Uluca described the band as a harmony of different colors where every member contributes a distinct individual element, while Pinar noted that their music style is vibrant and edgy thanks to the varied influences of the members.
Public Reception and Previous Legal Hurdles in Türkiye
While the group’s synchronized dance routines and vibrant style have drawn praise and sparked online dance challenges, critics remain split on their global crossover approach. Some listeners argue the glossy sound leans too heavily on established Western pop and K-pop formulas, while others question whether heavy reliance on Turkish cultural references might feel unfamiliar to international listeners.
In September 2025, Turkey’s public prosecutor’s office investigated Manifest for alleged exhibitionism and indecent acts following an Istanbul concert. The investigation resulted in cancelled tour dates and suspended prison sentences that temporarily restricted the members from leaving Türkiye, though that travel ban has since been lifted.
Plans for 2027 and International Expansion
Ahead of their Wembley debut—where they are supported by XO—the band is working alongside prominent music industry figure John Giddings, whom they announced a partnership with in May 2026.
Looking beyond their London arena appearance, the group anticipates releasing further English-language material and expanding their festival footprint internationally throughout 2027.