Afrika Bambaataa

American disc jockey and hip hop pioneer

Afrika Bambaataa - American disc jockey and hip hop pioneer
Born

April 17th, 1957
68 years ago

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

A significant figure in the development of hip hop music and culture, this individual emerged in the 1970s in the South Bronx. A founding member of the Universal Hip Hop Museum, established the Zulu Nation, an organization dedicated to promoting peace, love, unity, and having fun. Influenced by various musical genres, including funk and disco, he blended them into hip hop, contributing to the genre's expansion and acceptance. The track "Planet Rock" became iconic, showcasing electronic elements and inspiring a generation of artists. Bambaataa played a key role in the establishment of hip hop as a global music movement.

Founded the Zulu Nation

Released the influential track 'Planet Rock'

Other People Born on April 17th

Mikael Åkerfeldt

Swedish metal musician and producer
Born
April 17th, 1974 51 years ago

Born in 1974 in Sweden, made significant contributions to the music scene as a singer-songwriter and guitarist. Founded the progressive metal band Opeth, which gained international acclaim for its innovative sound that blends various genres. Produced several albums that received critical recognition. Also engaged in the music production front, shaping the sound of numerous records.

Continue Reading

Paul Nicholls

Jockey and Trainer with Champion Titles
Born
April 17th, 1962 63 years ago

Born in 1962, this English jockey and trainer achieved notable success in horse racing. Initially gaining prominence as a leading jockey, transitioned to training racehorses and established a successful training career. Operated a yard in Somerset, becoming recognized for training multiple high-profile racehorses. Achieved significant victories at major horse racing events.

Continue Reading

Ernest Starling

English physiologist and academic
Born
April 17th, 1866 159 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1927 98 years ago — 61 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of physiology, particularly through the establishment of the Starling Law of the Heart, which describes the relationship between the heart's filling and its contraction strength. His research included the role of hormones in bodily functions and the development of techniques for measuring blood pressure and heart functions. Starling conducted extensive studies on the actions of the thyroid gland and the role of the pancreas in digestion, helping to lay the groundwork for future research in these areas.

Continue Reading

Alanna Goldie

Canadian fencer and Olympian
Born
April 17th, 1994 31 years ago

A prominent fencer, achieved recognition in both individual and team events. Competed at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics in women's team foil. Has participated in multiple Fencing World Championships. Represented Canada in various international competitions and earned medals in national championships.

Continue Reading

Barnaby Joyce

Australian Politician, Deputy Prime Minister
Born
April 17th, 1967 58 years ago

Served as the 17th Deputy Prime Minister of Australia and held the position of Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources. Represented the New England electorate since 2005. Played a significant role in the National Party and was involved in various policy decisions impacting rural Australia. Undertook leadership responsibilities during periods of political change, including an earlier term as Deputy Prime Minister from 2016 to 2017.

Continue Reading

Michael Sembello

Singer-songwriter and guitarist with 'Maniac'
Born
April 17th, 1954 71 years ago

A singer-songwriter and guitarist gained prominence in the 1980s. Achieved major commercial success with the song 'Maniac,' which featured in the film 'Flashdance.' The song reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1983 and became an iconic track of the era. Sembello also wrote and produced for other artists, contributing to the music of television and film during the decade. His work spanned various genres, showcasing versatility as a musician and songwriter.

Continue Reading