Adam Yauch
Rapper and director of Beastie Boys
A prominent figure in hip hop, contributed significantly to the genre as a member of the Beastie Boys. The group released seminal albums including 'Licensed to Ill' and 'Paul's Boutique'. Yauch directed several of their music videos and established a film production company. In 1994, founded the Tibetan Freedom Concert, raising awareness and funds for Tibetan independence. Battled cancer for several years, having a profound influence on music and activism before passing in 2012.
Co-founded the Beastie Boys
Directed music videos for the group
Launched the Tibetan Freedom Concert
Other People Born on August 5th
Shin Takamatsu
Japanese architect and educator
Born
August 5th, 1948 77 years ago
An architect and academic contributed significantly to modern architecture in Japan. Worked as a professor at several universities, sharing knowledge on architectural design and theory. Established a design office that produced various notable projects, blending contemporary styles with traditional Japanese elements.
Continue ReadingDavid Hungate
Bass guitarist and music producer
Born
August 5th, 1948 77 years ago
Originally a member of the popular rock band Toto, contributed to their early success and iconic sound. Worked as a session musician for various artists throughout the 1970s and 1980s. In addition to performance, played a significant role in music production and arrangement, influencing the direction of numerous projects in the music industry. His work has been integral to the success of multiple albums across various genres.
Continue ReadingErich Kleiber
Austrian conductor and opera director
Born
August 5th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
January 27th, 1956 69 years ago — 65 years old
Conductor and opera director achieved recognition for expertise in leading orchestras and productions in major operas. Led the Vienna State Opera, producing significant works such as 'Die Fledermaus' and 'Der Rosenkavalier.' Contributed to the development of music performance and education during a turbulent period in Europe. Worked with various esteemed orchestras and performed internationally, influencing future generations of conductors.
Continue ReadingHorace Rawlins
Golfer and U.S. Open champion 1895
Born
August 5th, 1874 151 years ago
Died
1935 90 years ago — 61 years old
An English golfer who played a significant role in the early development of the sport. Competed in the inaugural U.S. Open held at Newport Country Club in Rhode Island. Claimed victory in the tournament, becoming the first-ever U.S. Open champion. Contributed to the popularity of golf in America during its formative years, competing in various tournaments.
Continue ReadingGreg Leskiw
Canadian guitarist and songwriter.
Born
August 5th, 1947 78 years ago
A Canadian guitarist and songwriter, contributed significantly to the music scene in Canada. Made a prominent mark as a member of the band The Guess Who, which achieved international success in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Participated in the creation of several of the band's popular albums, contributing to their unique sound. Post The Guess Who, pursued a solo career and worked with various artists, further showcasing musical versatility.
Continue ReadingToni Shaw
Paralympic swimmer; 2020 Tokyo Games
Born
August 5th, 2003 22 years ago
A British swimmer specialized in Paralympic events. Competed in the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics and secured multiple medals. Recognized for exceptional skills in the pool and representing the UK at an international level. Achieved personal bests and set records in various competitions. Engaged in promoting swimming for individuals with disabilities and inspiring younger athletes.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 4th
Ulisse Aldrovandi
Italian ornithologist and botanist
Born
September 11th, 1522 503 years ago
Died
May 4th, 1605 420 years ago — 82 years old
Active during the Renaissance, contributions included extensive studies in ornithology and botany. Established one of the first natural history museums in Bologna. Published numerous works on plants and animals, influencing future generations of naturalists. His systematic approach to studying and cataloging species laid groundwork for modern taxonomy and natural history.
Continue ReadingFrank Stella
American painter and sculptor
Born
May 12th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
May 4th, 2024 1 years ago — 87 years old
Born in 1936, this artist is recognized for pioneering geometric abstraction. Early works feature shaped canvases and vibrant colors, contributing to the development of Minimalism and post-painterly abstraction. Major series include the 'Black Paintings', which utilized industrial materials and techniques. The artist also created significant sculptures that explore form and space, often engaging with architectural elements. Throughout his career, exhibitions have showcased the evolution of artistic expression and the relationship between painting and sculpture.
Continue ReadingPaul Butterfield
Harmonica player and singer, Butterfield Blues Band
Born
December 17th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
May 4th, 1987 38 years ago — 44 years old
An influential singer and harmonica player, contributed significantly to the blues genre. Formed the Paul Butterfield Blues Band in 1965, which blended electric blues with rock elements. The band's self-titled debut album featured notable tracks that played a role in popularizing blues music during the mid-1960s. Collaborated with other prominent musicians, enhancing the blues scene. Continued to perform and record music throughout the 1970s and 1980s, maintaining a longstanding presence in the industry until passing in 1987.
Continue ReadingDon Shula
NFL Coach with most career wins
Born
January 4th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
May 4th, 2020 5 years ago — 90 years old
Played for the Baltimore Colts before transitioning to coaching. Served as head coach for the Miami Dolphins, leading the team to an undefeated season in 1972, which culminated in a Super Bowl victory. Established a record for most career wins by a head coach, with 347 wins. Contributed significantly to the development of players and strategies in the NFL.
Continue ReadingEllen Albertini Dow
Actress in 'The Wedding Singer'
Born
November 16th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
May 4th, 2015 10 years ago — 101 years old
An American actress, recognized for a career that spanned several decades. Made appearances in various television shows and films, with standout performances in 'The Wedding Singer' and 'The Golden Girls'. An accomplished performer, she garnered attention for her distinctive voice and comedic timing. Continued to act well into her later years, demonstrating a passion for the craft.
Continue ReadingE. Nesbit
English author and children's writer
Born
August 15th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
May 4th, 1924 101 years ago — 65 years old
Became a significant figure in children's literature. Authored a variety of stories that captivated young readers. Major works include 'The Railway Children' and the 'Psammead' series. Pioneered the use of fantasy in children's stories, blending everyday life with magical elements. Contributed extensively to literary magazines and was active in social issues.
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