All the People

If you just want to see the people in our database you can browse them here.

Otis Boykin

Inventor and engineer known for resistors
Born
August 29th, 1920 106 years ago
Died
1982 44 years ago — 62 years old

An inventor and engineer developed significant advancements in electrical engineering. Contributed to the invention of a wire resistor and made improvements to computer components and pacemakers. The wire resistor became widely used in various electronic devices, enhancing the reliability and efficiency of circuits. The contributions to the field of electronics established a foundation that supported the growth of numerous technologies.

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Otis Chandler

American publisher and newspaper executive
Born
1927 99 years ago
Died
February 27th, 2006 20 years ago — 79 years old

A prominent publisher based in the United States, played a crucial role in transforming a major newspaper into a leading multimedia organization. Served as the publisher of the Los Angeles Times from 1960 to 1980, overseeing its expansion and modernization during a significant growth period. Championed investigative journalism and introduced innovative editorial practices that enhanced the newspaper's reputation. Under leadership, the Times won numerous Pulitzer Prizes, solidifying its status in American journalism.

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Otis Clay

American singer-songwriter, soul artist
Born
February 11th, 1942 84 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 74 years old

Born in 1942, a prominent figure in the soul music genre, recognized for powerful vocal performances and emotive lyrics. Early career involved recording gospel music before transitioning to secular soul. Achieved widespread acclaim with hallmark tracks and collaborated with various artists throughout the 1960s and 1970s. Notable for contributions to the Chicago music scene, blending soul with a unique style that resonated with audiences. Inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame, underscoring significant influence in music.

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Otis Davis

American sprinter and Olympic champion
Born
July 12th, 1932 94 years ago
Died
September 14th, 2024 2 years ago — 92 years old

An accomplished sprinter, this athlete gained prominence in the 1960s. Competed in the Olympics, winning the gold medal in the 400 meters at the 1960 Rome Games, along with earning a gold in the 4x400 meters relay. Demonstrated exceptional speed and technique, setting records and becoming a symbol of excellence in track and field.

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Otis G. Pike

American politician and judge
Born
August 31st, 1921 105 years ago
Died
January 20th, 2014 12 years ago — 92 years old

Served as a member of the United States House of Representatives from New York from 1971 to 1979. Prior to his congressional service, held various roles in public office, including as a judge in the State Supreme Court. From 1975 until 1979, chaired the House Select Committee on Intelligence, overseeing intelligence operations and the Church Committee's investigations. His legislative focus included civil rights and governmental transparency.

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Otis Redding

Soul singer-songwriter with classic hits
Born
September 9th, 1941 85 years ago
Died
December 10th, 1967 58 years ago — 26 years old

A prominent figure in the soul music genre, contributions included powerful vocal performances and emotive songwriting. Redding's career began in the early 1960s, gaining attention with songs that featured a blend of gospel influences and rhythm and blues. The release of the iconic track 'Try a Little Tenderness' in 1966 solidified his position in the music scene. Other major hits such as '(Sittin' On) The Dock of the Bay' showcased his ability to convey deep emotion through music. Tragically, a plane crash in 1967 cut his life short, yet his influence on subsequent artists and the genre remains significant.

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Otis Rush

Blues singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
April 29th, 1935 91 years ago
Died
September 29th, 2018 8 years ago — 83 years old

A prominent figure in the Chicago blues scene, this musician developed a unique style characterized by powerful vocals and expressive guitar work. Active from the 1950s onwards, the artist released several influential albums, including 'Right Place, Wrong Time' and 'Ain't Enough Comin' In'. The artist's music features a fusion of blues, jazz, and R&B elements, shaping the genre's evolution and inspiring numerous musicians.

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Otis Smith

Basketball player and coach
Born
January 30th, 1964 62 years ago

A former professional basketball player, played as a shooting guard and small forward. Played for the Philadelphia 76ers, Portland Trail Blazers, and the Orlando Magic in the NBA. Transitioned to coaching after retirement from professional play, becoming an assistant coach for the Orlando Magic. Worked as a manager in various basketball operations roles and contributed to the development of young players within the organization.

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Otis Spann

Blues pianist known for Chicago blues
Born
March 21st, 1930 96 years ago
Died
April 24th, 1970 56 years ago — 40 years old

A prominent figure in the American blues scene, this musician gained recognition as a skilled pianist and vocalist. Born in 1930, he migrated to Chicago where he became an essential part of the post-war Chicago blues movement. His career included collaboration with many legendary artists, and he recorded numerous albums that showcased his unique style and talent. This artist played a significant role in the popularization of Chicago blues throughout the 1950s and 1960s, contributing both as a performer and a composer. His work left a lasting legacy in the genre.

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Otis Taylor

American singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
July 30th, 1948 78 years ago

Otis Taylor emerged as a significant figure in the blues genre, blending traditional sounds with contemporary elements. A singer-songwriter and guitarist, he developed a unique musical style characterized by its storytelling and intricate instrumentation. Taylor's work often reflects themes of social and historical significance, drawing on personal experiences and broader cultural narratives. His albums, including 'White African' and 'Double V', received critical acclaim and showcased his distinct voice and lyrical depth.

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Otis Thorpe

Basketball player with NBA championship
Born
August 5th, 1962 64 years ago

A professional basketball player competed in the NBA from 1984 to 2000. Played primarily as a power forward and center. Played for several teams including the Houston Rockets and the Sacramento Kings. Contributed to the Houston Rockets' 1994 NBA Championship victory. Selected as an NBA All-Star in 1991 and recognized for solid rebounding and scoring throughout career.

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Otis Williams

Singer-songwriter and producer of Motown
Born
October 30th, 1941 85 years ago

Originated as a founding member of the legendary vocal group The Temptations, which formed in 1960. The group achieved widespread success during the 1960s with a series of chart-topping hits and became a key part of the Motown sound. As a lead singer and songwriter, contributed to the group's signature harmonies and timeless classics. The Temptations were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1989, celebrating their influence on music and culture. Williams has continued to perform and produce music, maintaining the legacy of the group across decades.

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