Renowned Kurdish artist Shukur Al-Khayat dies at 83

KIRKUK, August 19 — Renowned Kurdish singer Shukur Al-Khayat died late Friday at Erbil’s Sardam Hospital after battling a chronic illness over the last three years. He was 83 years old.

Originally from Kirkuk, Al-Khayat began reciting traditional maqams began in 1953. His last name was an ode to his other career as a tailor.

His funeral procession began at 9 a.m. in Erbil, heading towards his final resting place in Kirkuk.