André Grétry

Composer of operas and theater music

André Grétry - Composer of operas and theater music
Born

February 8th, 1741
284 years ago

Died

1813
212 years ago — 72 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

Belgium

Links & References

Born in Belgium, pursued a career in music, later moving to France. Composed over 40 operas during the late 18th century, contributing significantly to the development of French opera. Known for developing a style that combined Italian operatic elements with French theatrical traditions. Works were popular in Paris, where they received acclaim and were performed in leading theaters. Also composed a variety of instrumental and choral music, showcasing versatility.

Wrote operas such as 'Zémire et Azor'

Contributed to 'Richard Cœur de Lion'

Influenced the evolution of comic opera in France

Other People Born on February 8th

Adella Brown Bailey

American politician and suffragist
Born
February 8th, 1860 165 years ago
Died
1937 88 years ago — 77 years old

Active in the women's suffrage movement, advocated for equal voting rights in the early 20th century. Served as the first president of the Woman’s Party of Missouri. Played a significant role in organizing and mobilizing efforts to support the passage of the Nineteenth Amendment, which granted women the right to vote. Participated in various campaigns and rallies promoting women's suffrage, utilizing public speaking and legislative lobbying to influence policy change.

Continue Reading

Dan Seals

Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
February 8th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
March 25th, 2009 15 years ago — 61 years old

A singer-songwriter and guitarist, became a prominent figure in country music during the 1980s and 1990s. Achieved commercial success with a string of hits, including 'Bop' and 'One Friend'. Earlier, performed as part of the pop duo England Dan & John Ford Coley, gaining recognition with hits like 'I'd Really Love to See You Tonight'. The solo career included multiple chart-topping singles and several albums. Inducted into the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame.

Continue Reading

Marques Johnson

Basketball player and sportscaster
Born
February 8th, 1956 69 years ago

Played college basketball at UCLA, winning three NCAA championships. Selected third overall in the 1977 NBA Draft by the Milwaukee Bucks. Played for the Bucks, San Antonio Spurs, and the Golden State Warriors during an 11-year NBA career. Achieved NBA All-Star status three times while playing with the Bucks. After retiring, transitioned to a successful career as a basketball analyst and sportscaster, covering NBA games and providing sports commentary.

Continue Reading

Mary Steenburgen

American actress, won Academy Award
Born
February 8th, 1953 72 years ago

An American actress, born in 1953, has built a career in film and television spanning several decades. Gained prominence in the 1980s with roles in films such as 'Melvin and Howard' and 'Parenthood'. Received an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for the role in 'Melvin and Howard'. Appeared in various television series, including '30 Rock' and 'The Last Man on Earth'. Has also worked as a producer and songwriter.

Continue Reading

James Dean

American actor in classic films
Born
February 8th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
September 30th, 1955 69 years ago — 24 years old

An influential American actor emerged during the 1950s, starring in iconic films such as 'East of Eden', 'Rebel Without a Cause', and 'Giant'. His performances resonated with the youth of his time, showcasing the complexities of adolescence. Dean's life was tragically cut short at the age of 24 in a car accident, yet his legacy endures through his compelling portrayals and the cultural impact of his roles. He became an enduring symbol of youthful rebellion and American cinema, influencing generations of actors and filmmakers.

Continue Reading

Nikki Yanofsky

Canadian singer-songwriter known for Jazz.
Born
February 8th, 1994 31 years ago

A singer-songwriter began her career at a young age, gaining attention for her exceptional vocal ability. Released the album 'Introducing' in 2010, which showcased her talent in jazz and contemporary music. Gained international recognition by performing at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver, where she sang the national anthem. Continued to release music and perform, blending different genres while maintaining a strong connection to jazz.

Continue Reading