Ahmed Alshaiba - Shape of You ( 2017 )

Ahmed Alshaiba was a Yemeni-American musician celebrated for his innovative oud performances that bridged traditional Middle Eastern music with contemporary Western genres. Born in Yemen, Alshaiba was a self-taught oud player who relocated to the United States in 2012 with the aspiration of showcasing the oud's beauty to a global audience.

His repertoire included unique renditions of popular songs such as Ed Sheeran's "Shape of You," Michael Jackson's "Smooth Criminal," and the theme from "Game of Thrones," all adapted for the oud. These performances garnered him a substantial following on YouTube, where his channel amassed over 800,000 subscribers and millions of views.

Tragically, Alshaiba's life was cut short at the age of 32 due to a car accident in New York on September 28, 2022. His untimely death was widely mourned by fans worldwide, who remembered him for his exceptional talent and his contributions to music.

Alshaiba's legacy endures through his recordings and the inspiration he provided to musicians seeking to blend diverse musical traditions. His work continues to be accessible on various platforms, including his YouTube channel, where audiences can experience his distinctive fusion of Eastern and Western musical styles.