Manifest: From reality TV to Wembley Arena in one turbulent year
Turkish girl group manifest are seeking an international audience after a rapid rise from a reality TV contest to their first UK concert at Wembley Arena. Their progress follows a turbulent year in Turkey, where prosecutors investigated them over allegations of violating public decency, prompting debate about artistic freedom.
Formed in February last year on Big5 Türkiye, the six-member group now has more than six million monthly Spotify listeners. In London they released their first English-language single, “TRALALA”, whose video topped YouTube’s daily music chart on release. The members say they want to retain their Turkish identity and ultimately bring Turkish-language songs to global audiences.
- manifest moved from reality TV to Wembley Arena in a year.
- The group has more than six million monthly Spotify listeners.
- A Turkish investigation over their performance raised artistic freedom concerns.