Asmahan
Ya Habibi Taala Elhaani
Born on November 25, 1912, Asmahan, whose real name was Amal al-Atrash, was a Syrian singer and actress of the first half of the 20th century. Modern and free, she was the sister of Farid al-Atrash; and perhaps the only singer able to compete with the famous Oum Kalsoum. Her private and public life is worthy of a Hollywood movie and was particularly eventful during the Second World War, where she played spy for Germany, France and Great Britain. She died in 1944, at the age of 32, in a mysterious car accident, leaving only a few recordings. This record features her most popular titles, to be rediscovered by the music enthusiasts of today. Remastered by Josh Stevenson at Otic Sound (Canada). Liner notes by Rabah Mezouane. English translation by Karolina Kubik. TRACKS: 1. Ya Habibi Taala Elhaani (1944) 2. Ya Touyour (1941) 3. Ahla Binour El Aïn (Featuring Farid Elatrache) (1937) 4. Enta Hataraf (1944) 5. Layali El Unse Fi Vienna (1944) 6. Sahirtou Toul El Leil (1937)