Ben E. King
Singer-songwriter of 'Stand By Me'

Born
September 28th, 1938
86 years ago
Died
April 30th, 2015
10 years ago — 76 years old
Category
Performers & Entertainers
Country
United States
Links & References
A prominent American singer-songwriter and record producer, contributed significantly to the music scene from the 1950s onward. Gained fame as a member of The Drifters, serving as the lead singer on hits like 'There Goes My Baby' and 'Save the Last Dance for Me'. Launched a successful solo career with the release of 'Stand By Me' in 1961, a song that became a classic and has been covered by numerous artists. Continued to write and perform throughout his life, leaving a lasting legacy in the music industry until passing away in 2015.
Sang lead on The Drifters' hit 'There Goes My Baby'
Released the iconic song 'Stand By Me'
Other People Born on September 28th
Manolis Rasoulis
A prominent Greek singer-songwriter, recognized for a blend of traditional and modern Greek music styles. Influenced by the Greek folk tradition, his songwriting often reflected socio-political themes. Released multiple albums throughout his career, contributing to the Greek music scene significantly. Collaborated with various artists and performed widely across Greece. Engaged in cultural initiatives, promoting Greek music and its heritage.
Continue ReadingMārtiņš Roze
Mārtiņš Roze served as a prominent lawyer and politician in Latvia. Graduating from the University of Latvia, he began a career in law before entering politics. He was an active member of the Latvian political scene during the early 1990s, focusing on the development of democratic institutions in the post-soviet era. During his tenure, he contributed to various legal reforms and participated in shaping Latvia's legal framework following independence. Roze was recognized for his work in law and government, influencing key legislative changes that supported the new democratic transition.
Continue ReadingBrigitte Bardot
Achieved international fame as an actress during the 1950s and 1960s. Starred in iconic films including 'And God Created Woman,' which contributed to the sexual liberation in cinema. Transitioned from acting to advocating for animal rights, becoming heavily involved in campaigns and founding the Brigitte Bardot Foundation. Received numerous accolades throughout her career for both her acting and her activism.
Continue ReadingGreg Anderson
A pianist and composer focused on classical music, with a blend of contemporary elements. Established a prominent career in piano performance and composition. Collaborated with various musicians and ensembles, contributing to the richness of the modern classical genre. Co-founded a notable piano duo, achieving recognition for creative arrangements and performances. A significant presence in the classical music scene, appearing in prestigious concerts and festivals.
Continue ReadingWilliam Windom
An American actor, gained prominence in the 1960s and 1970s with a career spanning television, film, and stage. Celebrated for versatility in character roles, portrayed a range of personalities in various productions. Achieved significant recognition for work on the television series "My World and Welcome To It," which won an Emmy Award. Also made guest appearances in well-known shows such as "The Twilight Zone" and had roles in films like "To Hell and Back."
Continue ReadingMartin David Kruskal
A physicist and mathematician contributed significantly to the fields of mathematics and physics. Developed the theory of solitons, which describes wave phenomena in various physical contexts. Worked on mathematical methods for nonlinear waves and fluid dynamics, influencing multiple disciplines. Held a position at Princeton University, engaging in research that advanced understanding of integrable systems. Authored numerous publications and participated in conferences that fostered collaboration among researchers globally.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 30th
Peter Andreas Heiberg
Contributed significantly to Danish literature and philology during the 19th century. Published various works that explored linguistic and literary themes. Engaged in political discussions and literary criticism. Played a role in the romantic movement in Denmark.
Continue ReadingGiannis Gravanis
Played as a defender for AEK Athens, becoming part of the team during the 1980s. Gravanis participated in numerous Greek Super League matches, contributing defensively to the club's successes during his tenure. After retirement, took on various roles within the football community, including coaching.
Continue ReadingTony Allen
Played as a shooting guard in the NBA, primarily with the Boston Celtics and the Memphis Grizzlies. Contributed to the Boston Celtics' 2008 NBA Championship victory. Recognized for defensive prowess, earning NBA All-Defensive First Team honors multiple times. Transitioned to a prominent role within Memphis, becoming a key player for the team's identity and success during the 2010s.
Continue ReadingLester Bangs
A prominent figure in music journalism during the 1970s, known for engaging and often controversial writings on rock music. Contributed to notable publications such as Rolling Stone, Creem, and The Village Voice. Authored several books and essays, encapsulating the ethos of rock 'n' roll culture. Bangs often blended humor and criticism, championing artists while critiquing the industry. His influential style paved the way for future music critics and left a lasting legacy in the field.
Continue ReadingRoger de Flor
A prominent military leader during the late 13th century, this individual served as a captain of the Catalan Company, a mercenary group. Engaged in numerous military campaigns in the Byzantine Empire, notable achievements include the successful siege of Adrianople and significant participation in the conflicts against the Ottoman Turks. His leadership contributed to the expansion of Catalan influence in the region. This figure died in 1305 under treacherous circumstances during a struggle for power within the Byzantine state.
Continue ReadingRichard Scarry
An author and illustrator created numerous children's books featuring anthropomorphic animals in engaging scenarios. His most famous work includes 'Busy Town', which presents various activities and characters in a vibrant, detailed world. The storytelling style combined with illustrations improved early childhood literacy and imagination. Throughout his career, numerous books were published with memorable characters that continued to resonate with children for decades.
Continue Reading