Born: 665 (circa), Unknown
Died: Unknown
Country most active: Syria
Also known as: NA
Sallama al-Zarqa was one of the four most famous songstresses of the Umayyad era, alongside Jamila (her teacher), Sallama al-Qass and Habbaba; her sister Rayya was also known for her singing. An enslaved woman, she was presented to the poet Al-Ahwas, who reportedly fell in love with her, at the court of Yazid I (680-683). Famed for her beauty, it is said that the several men who enslaved her all fell in love with her. She was later purchased by Jafer, the son of Suleiman, for 80,000 dirhem. His father reputedly scolded Jafer for spending so much money, until he heard her sing. She is also said to have sung at the court of Yazid II (720-724).
Source: The International Encyclopedia of Women Composers