Yassassin
Yassassin is a song by the English rock band David Bowie, released on the album Lodger in 1979. It is notable for its unusual musical style, incorporating elements of Turkish folk music and reggae.
The song features a distinctive soundscape created through the use of synthesizers and traditional instruments. The lyrics, while seemingly nonsensical, are interpreted as a commentary on cultural tourism and Western perceptions of foreign cultures.
"Yassassin" was not released as a single and received mixed reviews upon Lodger's release, some critics finding its experimental nature jarring while others praised its originality. Despite this, it has become a cult favorite among Bowie fans, appreciated for its unique blending of musical styles and its challenging, unconventional structure. The title "Yassassin" is believed to be a corruption of the Turkish phrase "Yaşasın," meaning "long live."