Amy Winehouse
Singer-songwriter with 'Back to Black'
A British singer-songwriter, rose to prominence in the mid-2000s with a distinctive style that blended various musical genres, including soul, jazz, and R&B. Released critically acclaimed albums, with 'Back to Black' achieving significant commercial success and earning multiple awards. The album featured hits such as 'Rehab' and 'You Know I'm No Good'. Struggled with personal issues that garnered extensive media attention, leading to a complex public persona. Despite challenges, contributed to shaping contemporary music with a unique voice and unparalleled lyrical depth.
Released the album 'Back to Black'
Won five Grammy Awards in 2008
Other People Born on September 14th
Brandon Brown
American race car driver with NASCAR win
Born
September 14th, 1993 32 years ago
A race car driver participated in NASCAR events, achieving significant success in the sport. Competed in various series, showcasing talent on different tracks. Won the 2021 NASCAR Xfinity Series race at Alabama, marking a notable moment in racing career. Became a prominent figure in the racing community, recognized for skills behind the wheel.
Continue ReadingPaul Poberezny
Founder of Experimental Aircraft Association
Born
September 14th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 2013 12 years ago — 91 years old
Aviation pioneer and businessman founded the Experimental Aircraft Association in 1953, promoting recreational aviation and supporting homebuilt aircraft. Played a crucial role in organizing the annual Oshkosh AirVenture, the world's largest aviation event. Contributed significantly to the growth and development of the experimental aircraft movement through advocacy and education.
Continue ReadingKay Medford
American actress and singer
Born
September 14th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
April 10th, 1980 45 years ago — 60 years old
An actress and singer contributed significantly to film and theatre. Gained recognition for the role of ‘Rose’ in the Broadway musical ‘Funny Girl’. Performed in various productions, showcasing vocal talent and acting skills. Appeared in films such as ‘The Music Man’ and ‘The Great Race’, further establishing a career in entertainment. Received nominations for various awards acknowledging performances in both film and stage. Later transitioned to television, with notable appearances in shows that reflected her musical prowess.
Continue ReadingMae Boren Axton
American singer-songwriter with hits
Born
September 14th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
April 9th, 1997 28 years ago — 82 years old
Contributed significantly to the music industry as a singer-songwriter. Composed numerous songs, including 'Heartbreak Hotel,' which became a hit for Elvis Presley. Worked as a music promoter and nurtured the careers of various artists. Played a vital role in the country music genre, both in songwriting and performance.
Continue ReadingLord William Bentinck
Governor-General of India, reformer
Born
September 14th, 1774 251 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1839 186 years ago — 64 years old
Served as the 14th Governor-General of India from 1828 to 1835. Implemented significant reforms in India, including the abolition of sati and promotion of education. Focused on reducing corruption within the East India Company and improving infrastructure. Advocated for social reforms that aimed to modernize India.
Continue ReadingDmitry Medvedev
Russian politician and former president
Born
September 14th, 1965 60 years ago
Served as the third President of Russia from 2008 to 2012, following a tenure as Prime Minister from 2012 to 2020. Played a significant role in Russian politics, focusing on modernization and innovation during the presidency. Worked closely with Vladimir Putin and continued many of his policies while pursuing a separate agenda. His presidency was marked by the 2008 financial crisis and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, particularly in relation to the annexation of Crimea. After leaving office, continued to influence the political landscape as Deputy Chairman of the Security Council.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 23rd
Norman Leyden
Composer and conductor of orchestral works
Born
October 17th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
July 23rd, 2014 11 years ago — 96 years old
A prominent American composer and conductor, associated with the sounds of orchestral and television music, played a significant role in the realm of musical performance and composition. Leyden's work included conducting the Oregon Symphony, where he contributed to the enrichment of orchestral music in the region. Leyden also gained recognition for compositions that became staples in American music programs. His contributions extended to recording and arranging music that enhanced the quality of performances across various media, including television.
Continue ReadingKeith Godchaux
Keyboard player for Grateful Dead
Born
July 19th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
July 23rd, 1980 45 years ago — 32 years old
A keyboard player and songwriter held a significant role in the rock band Grateful Dead from 1971 to 1979. Contributed to the band's unique sound through the use of keyboards and backing vocals. Participated in numerous studio albums and live performances, including iconic projects such as 'Europe '72' and 'Wake of the Flood'. After leaving the group, continued to perform with other bands, showcasing musical talents in various settings until his passing in 1980.
Continue ReadingFrederick Holder
Australian politician, 19th Premier of South Australia
Born
May 12th, 1850 175 years ago
Died
July 23rd, 1909 116 years ago — 59 years old
Served as the 19th Premier of South Australia from 1910 to 1912. Was a member of the House of Assembly for the Liberal Union. Played a significant role in the development of the state's policies during his tenure. Actively participated in various legislative reforms.
Continue ReadingMollie Steimer
Russian-American political activist
Born
November 21st, 1897 128 years ago
Died
July 23rd, 1980 45 years ago — 82 years old
Born in Russia in 1897, significant involvement in leftist politics began in the early 20th century. Relocated to the United States, continued to advocate for anarchism and anti-war sentiments. Engaged in labor movements and was an outspoken critic of government oppression. Arrested multiple times for activism and involvement in revolutionary activities. Became a symbol of resistance during the Red Scare, which led to her deportation back to Russia in the 1930s. Later returned to the United States where she remained a vocal advocate for civil liberties until her death.
Continue ReadingWilliam Wakefield Baum
American cardinal of the Catholic Church
Born
November 21st, 1926 99 years ago
Died
July 23rd, 2015 10 years ago — 88 years old
Ordained a priest in 1953, served in various capacities including as a bishop in several dioceses. Appointed as the Archbishop of Washington in 1973, held this position until retirement in 1980. Participated in the 1978 conclave that elected Pope John Paul II. Elevated to the cardinalate in 1985, contributing to the Roman Catholic Church and representing the Church at international events. Advocated for religious education and understood theological issues of the time.
Continue ReadingMohammed Zahir Shah
King of Afghanistan and last monarch
Born
October 15th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
July 23rd, 2007 18 years ago — 92 years old
Ascended to the throne in 1933, serving as the last king of Afghanistan until his exile in 1973. After years of exile, he returned to Afghanistan in 2002 during a transitional period. Zahir Shah's reign included modernization efforts and attempts to establish a parliamentary democracy. His leadership saw significant national development projects, and a constitutional assembly convened in his honor upon his return. Though he held a largely ceremonial role during his later years, his presence was a symbol of unity for many Afghans during the turbulent post-Taliban era.
Continue Reading