Chefket
I decided to leave Universal — and become independent with my own label
Şevket Dirican, known professionally as Chefket, is a German artist of Turkish descent. Born in a small town, Chefket moved to Berlin to explore whether a career in the arts was his true calling.
Arriving with just €200 in his pocket, he initially worked as a bartender to make ends meet. And he did make it work: In 2015, after signing with Universal, Chefket's breakthrough came with his Top-Ten album, "Nachtmensch". It's been a stellar career for him since.
Chefket on the fight for creative freedom
Hip-hop is a language of liberty for the Berlin-based rapper, producer and photographer.
Raised by Turkish parents in the Swabian town of Heidenheim, Chefket—aka Şevket Dirican—began writing and reciting rhymes in his teens, inspired by personal insights and observational hooks. His playful and pertinent expressions would propel him to widespread recognition and a major record label deal, yielding snappy anthems such as Rap & Soul (from 2015 album Nachtmensch)—but his independent spirit would ultimately power his vision.