Artie Shaw
Clarinetist and bandleader, influential composer
A prominent clarinet player, composer, and bandleader, this musician gained recognition during the Swing Era of the 1930s and 1940s. Shaw's band achieved major popularity with the hit song "Begin the Beguine," which displayed his sophisticated musical style. Aside from leading successful big bands, he composed several pieces that showcased his innovative approach. Shaw's influence extended beyond the clarinet, as he embraced classical music elements within his jazz compositions. He collaborated with notable musicians and made significant contributions to the development of modern jazz.
Led a successful big band that featured the hit "Begin the Beguine"
Composed various pieces integrating jazz and classical elements
Other People Born on May 23rd
Kristína Kučová
Slovakian tennis player and competitor
Born
May 23rd, 1990 35 years ago
A Slovakian tennis player, achieved prominence on the WTA tour during the 2010s. Specializes in singles and doubles, contributing to the Slovakian national team's success in international competitions. Participated in various Grand Slam tournaments, reaching the second round in the Australian Open and French Open in singles. In doubles, reached a career-high ranking and participated in multiple finals, showcasing skills alongside various partners on the professional circuit.
Continue ReadingRăzvan Marin
Professional Romanian footballer
Born
May 23rd, 1996 29 years ago
A Romanian footballer plays primarily as a midfielder. Career began in the Romanian league with FC Viitorul Constanța, where significant contributions came in both domestic league and cup competitions. Subsequently, transferred to several clubs across Europe, including successful stints in the Belgian Pro League with Antwerp and Serie A with Cagliari. Frequently represented the national team at various youth levels before earning a senior cap, participating in international competitions.
Continue ReadingSam Timmins
New Zealand Basketball Player
Born
May 23rd, 1997 28 years ago
Participated in the National Basketball League, playing for the Canterbury Rams. Contributed to the team's performance during the 2018 NBL season. Represented New Zealand in international competitions, including the Under-19 World Championship. Played college basketball at the University of Washington, where he developed skills that enhanced his professional career.
Continue ReadingKatharina Althaus
German ski jumper and World Championship medalist
Born
May 23rd, 1996 29 years ago
A prominent ski jumper, achieved significant success in women's ski jumping competitions. Competed in multiple World Championships and World Cup events, showcasing remarkable consistency and skill. Achieved top placements in individual competitions, contributing to the advancement of women's ski jumping on the international stage. Participated in the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, representing Germany.
Continue ReadingJames Charles
Internet Personality and Makeup Artist
Born
May 23rd, 1999 26 years ago
This individual gained popularity as a beauty guru on social media platforms, particularly YouTube and Instagram. Notable for makeup tutorials and artistry, this person also launched a line of cosmetics in collaboration with leading beauty brands. In 2016, became the first male ambassador for CoverGirl. The YouTube channel featured transformative makeup looks and beauty challenges, amassing millions of subscribers and views.
Continue ReadingSandro Mamukelashvili
Basketball player, NCAA star contributor
Born
May 23rd, 1999 26 years ago
Born in Georgia and later relocating to the United States, a basketball player gained recognition for contributions at Seton Hall University. Showcased skills as a forward, particularly excelling in scoring and rebounding. Joined the NBA following a successful collegiate career, securing a spot with the Milwaukee Bucks. Continued to develop performance in professional play, gaining attention in league matches.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 30th
Jean Collas
Rugby player and tug of war champion
Born
July 3rd, 1874 151 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1928 96 years ago — 54 years old
Competed in rugby and tug of war during the early 20th century. Participated in the 1900 Summer Olympics, representing France in tug of war. Contributed to the development and popularity of rugby in France during the sport's formative years.
Continue ReadingErica Garner
Civil rights activist against police violence
Born
May 29th, 1990 35 years ago
Died
December 30th, 2017 7 years ago — 27 years old
Born in 1990, activism focused on civil rights following the death of Eric Garner, father. Advocated for justice and accountability in cases of police violence. Organized demonstrations and engaged in public speaking to raise awareness about systemic racism and police brutality. Co-founded organizations aimed at addressing police violence and providing support to affected families. Continued activism until untimely death in 2017 due to health complications.
Continue ReadingEiichi Ohtaki
Japanese singer-songwriter and producer
Born
July 28th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
December 30th, 2013 11 years ago — 65 years old
A prominent figure in Japanese music, Ohtaki started his career in the 1960s as a member of the band Happy End, which played a critical role in the establishment of folk rock in Japan. After the band's disbandment, Ohtaki launched a successful solo career, releasing several influential albums. His 1975 album, 'A Long Vacation', gained critical acclaim and remains a landmark in Japanese pop music. Ohtaki's work blended various genres, including rock, pop, and traditional Japanese music. He collaborated with numerous artists throughout his career and contributed to the production of many records, significantly shaping the Japanese music landscape.
Continue ReadingMartha Darley Mutrie
British painter with notable landscapes
Born
August 26th, 1824 201 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1885 139 years ago — 61 years old
A British painter, recognized for contributions to landscape painting during the 19th century. Specialized in oil paintings, watercolors, and the depiction of rural and English countryside scenes. Exhibited works at the Royal Academy and was a member of the Society of British Artists. Emphasized the beauty of natural settings and presented a unique perspective in her artwork.
Continue ReadingAki Yashiro
Japanese singer with popular ballads
Born
August 29th, 1950 75 years ago
Died
December 30th, 2023 1 years ago — 73 years old
Born in 1950, a prominent singer in Japan known for a successful career in the enka genre. Achieved mainstream popularity in the 1970s and 1980s, contributing significantly to the music scene. Released numerous albums, with several songs topping the charts. Also gained recognition for performances on television, showcasing traditional and contemporary Japanese music styles.
Continue ReadingLew Ayres
American actor in All Quiet on the Western Front
Born
December 28th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1996 28 years ago — 88 years old
An actor gained recognition for performance in the film All Quiet on the Western Front (1930). Worked in both film and television, with a career spanning several decades. Appeared in notable films including The Thin Man and the melodrama Johnny Belinda, earning an Academy Award nomination. In television, featured in the series Dr. Kildare. Later in career, became associated with advocacy for mental health awareness.
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