Rock Monsters Romania

On September 13, 2025, the stage of Underworld Club, Bucharest will erupt with the raw energy of GØK2, the Istanbul-born, Tallinn-based multi-instrumentalist whose music defies categorization. Blending hip-hop rhythms, post-punk instrumentation, and traditional Turkish influences, GØK2’s live performances are anything but hybrid—they are pure punk in spirit, charged with urgency, defiance, and a sense of community.

The night promises to be more than just a concert. With a style that is both direct and socially engaged, GØK2 will bring his trademark “creative chaos” to Bucharest in what he describes as nothing less than “an afterparty for the whole year.” Sharing the bill are local noise-rock trio Absent New Ruins, setting the tone for an evening where noise, politics, and passion collide. Tickets are available at the door for 30 lei, with doors opening at 19:30 and the show starting at 20:00.

A Strong Bond with Romania

In an interview with journalist Irina Marinescu, GØK2 spoke about his deep connection with Romanian audiences:

“The Romanian crowd is one of the most welcoming and fun audiences I’ve ever had abroad. There’s definitely a special connection for me—maybe it’s the cultural closeness. I felt at home. I like chaos, and the Romanian audience knows how to deliver it and take it further. My show in Bucharest earlier this year was the highlight of my year. The Romanian crowd and I are a ‘power couple.’”

For GØK2, performing at Underworld Club—a legendary DIY venue—feels like a perfect match. “Coming from a pure DIY culture, playing at Underworld means being exactly where I belong,” he says.

Music, Community, and Social Messages

GØK2’s sets are never just about sound—they are an outlet for urgent social and political commentary. Whether speaking about migration, inequality, war, or mental health, his work is grounded in lived experience and solidarity:

“As a migrant artist, I’ve always seen the strongest support coming from communities, not the industry. The power of unity—people don’t realize what we can do when we come together.”

Before stepping on stage, GØK2 will also appear as a speaker at Mastering the Music Business (MMB) 2025, Romania’s leading music industry conference. He will join the panel “Taking a Stand: Should Artists Risk Their Fanbase for Their Beliefs?” to discuss the risks and responsibilities of outspoken artistry.

Asked whether he fears losing fans or opportunities by being political on stage, his response is clear:

“If someone stops following me because I speak about gender equality, Gaza, Ukraine, migrant realities, or mental health, then that’s a perfect filter, not something to fear.”

A Show to Remember

This upcoming concert in Bucharest carries special weight for the artist. It will be his last show abroad for now, and he promises both intensity and intimacy:

“It’s going to be personal and wild at the same time. I hope that after the concert we can all sit down together and just say: ‘What the hell just happened?!’”

And, in true GØK2 style, the return to Romania won’t be complete without a taste of local tradition:

“Honestly, I can’t wait to eat mici and sarmale as soon as I land in Romania!”

Article made with the aid of Artificial Intelligence