Barney Kessel
American guitarist and composer
A prominent jazz guitarist and composer, contributed significantly to the genre from the 1940s onward. Worked with numerous influential musicians and bands, shaping the sound of jazz guitar during a pivotal era. An innovative player, Kessel was among the first guitarists to employ chord melody style. His career included performances on many notable recordings and film scores. He was also an integral member of the celebrated group The Great Guitars alongside Herb Ellis and Charlie Byrd.
Recorded with jazz legends such as Ella Fitzgerald and Oscar Peterson
Participated in the influential 1957 album 'The Poll Winners'
Co-founded The Great Guitars
Other People Born on October 17th
Thomas Strudwick
British motorcycle road racer
Born
October 17th, 2001 24 years ago
Participation in motorcycle racing events started at a young age. Competed in various championships including the British Superbike Championship and Moto3. Secured notable positions and garnered recognition within the racing community. Consistently demonstrated skill and determination on the track, contributing to personal achievements in competitive motorcycle racing.
Continue ReadingSam Concepcion
Filipino musician and dancer
Born
October 17th, 1992 33 years ago
A Filipino musician and dancer achieved prominence in the entertainment industry through a successful career in music and television. Gained attention as a contestant on the television show 'Little Big Star', which showcased children's singing talents. Released several singles, including 'Kontra V', and garnered recognition for contributions to OPM (Original Pilipino Music). Also known for commercial performances and appearances on various television shows.
Continue ReadingVincent Poirier
French professional basketball player
Born
October 17th, 1993 32 years ago
Played professional basketball in Europe and the NBA. Began career in France before moving to the NBA. Played for the Philadelphia 76ers, contributing to the team's roster. Also represented the French national team in international competitions, showcasing talent on the global stage.
Continue ReadingMaica García Godoy
Spanish water polo player and Olympian
Born
October 17th, 1990 35 years ago
Competed in water polo at the highest level, participating in international competitions and earning recognition. Secured a silver medal at the 2013 World Aquatics Championships and participated in the 2016 Summer Olympics held in Rio de Janeiro. Also contributed to club-level success in competitions in Spain, showcasing skills and strategy in the water polo arena.
Continue ReadingMatthew Knies
Ice Hockey Player for Toronto Maple Leafs
Born
October 17th, 2002 23 years ago
Born in 2002, this professional ice hockey player plays as a forward for the Toronto Maple Leafs in the NHL. Played collegiate hockey at the University of Minnesota, achieving significant recognition during his time there. Made his NHL debut with the Maple Leafs and participated in the playoffs in his rookie season, showcasing skills and contributing to the team's performance.
Continue ReadingKenneth Omeruo
Nigerian footballer with professional clubs
Born
October 17th, 1993 32 years ago
Born in Nigeria, a professional football defender has played in various European leagues. Omeruo began his career at the Nigerian club Standard Liege before moving to Chelsea FC in 2012. He spent much of his time on loan to clubs such as ADO Den Haag, where he gained significant playing experience. Omeruo has represented Nigeria in international competitions, including the FIFA World Cup and the Africa Cup of Nations. His defensive skills contributed to Nigeria winning the Africa Cup of Nations in 2013.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 6th
Farley Mowat
Canadian environmentalist and author
Born
May 12th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
May 6th, 2014 11 years ago — 92 years old
This Canadian author and environmentalist wrote extensively about nature and conservation. Many works highlighted the relationship between humans and the environment, with early publications reflecting a deep concern for wildlife preservation. The book 'Never Cry Wolf' presented an influential narrative on the life of wolves and their ecosystem. Mowat's writing style combined humor and heartfelt observations, which resonated with a wide audience. He traveled extensively, often immersing in the habitats he documented. His advocacy for the environment and critiquing of government policy drew national and international attention.
Continue ReadingJim Wright
American politician and Speaker of the House
Born
December 22nd, 1922 103 years ago
Died
May 6th, 2015 10 years ago — 92 years old
Served as a soldier during World War II. Held the position of 56th Speaker of the United States House of Representatives from 1987 to 1989. Practiced law after returning from military service and became involved in politics, representing Texas's 12th congressional district. Advocated for various legislative efforts during tenure as Speaker and played a significant role in the Democratic Party throughout career.
Continue ReadingWil Albeda
Dutch economist and Minister of Social Affairs
Born
1925 101 years ago
Died
May 6th, 2014 11 years ago — 89 years old
An economist and politician, served as the Dutch Minister of Social Affairs from 1973 to 1977. During the tenure, implemented several social policy reforms and was involved in labor market policies. Contributed to the transition of social welfare approaches, enhancing social security systems. Also engaged in academic pursuits, focusing on economic policy and its social implications.
Continue ReadingMaria Lassnig
Austrian painter and academic
Born
September 8th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
May 6th, 2014 11 years ago — 94 years old
Austrian painter specialized in body awareness and self-portraiture. Studied at the Academy of Fine Arts in Vienna and later became a professor at the University of applied Arts in Vienna. Developed a unique style, focusing on the representation of the body through emotional and psychological lenses. Spent years in Paris and New York, where engagement with contemporary art developed significantly. Won the distinguished Grand Austrian State Prize for Fine Arts in 2011, cementing a significant academic career and establishing a legacy in the field of modern painting.
Continue ReadingL. Frank Baum
American novelist and author of Oz
Born
May 15th, 1856 169 years ago
Died
May 6th, 1919 106 years ago — 62 years old
Active during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a novelist wrote children's books, with the most recognized work being 'The Wonderful Wizard of Oz', published in 1900. This book became a classic in children's literature and led to a series of sequels exploring the Land of Oz. In addition to writing, involvement in theater was significant, contributing to adaptations of the Oz stories for the stage. Various artistic forms, including illustrations and musicals, were influenced by the characters and themes originated in the Oz series.
Continue ReadingNovera Ahmed
Bangladeshi sculptor recognized for art.
Born
1930 96 years ago
Died
May 6th, 2015 10 years ago — 85 years old
An influential sculptor from Bangladesh, contributions spanned over several decades. Specialized in the use of traditional materials shaped into contemporary forms. Exhibited works in national and international galleries, gaining recognition for the fusion of modern and classical techniques. Focused on themes relevant to Bangladesh's culture and heritage, often utilizing local motifs in sculpture. Contributed to the establishment and promotion of the art scene in Bangladesh through mentorship and public engagement.
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