Google celebrated on Wednesday the 103rd birthday of renowned Syrian singer and actress Amal al-Atrash, also known as Asmahan.
Asmahan moved to Egypt with her mother and brothers when she was a child with hopes of becoming an entertainer. Asmahan was the sister of singer Farid al-Atrash, who helped her start her career, and the daughter of Fahd al-Atrash, a member of the famous Druze al-Atrash family who played a pivitol political role in Syria.
She married Emir Hassan al-Atrash and returned to Syria in 1934 where she gave birth to her only child, Camilia. Asmahan divorced a few years later and returned to Egypt and became one of the most prominent singers of her time.
Asmahan died in a car accident in 1944 at the age of 31. Suspicions and rumors still surround Asmahan's death as many believe she was deliberately killed.
According to Google, Asmahan was one of the most acclaimed singers and actresses in Egypt during the 1930s and 1940s, known for her powerful voice, versatility and commanding stage presence.
"Sophie Diao’s animated doodle honors Asmahan, paying tribute to her signature performing style and highlighting the intimate way she would look deeply into the camera and sing directly to her audience," Google wrote.
