Bert Weedon
English guitarist and music educator
A prominent English guitarist and music educator, played a pivotal role in the development of rock and pop music in the UK. Gained recognition in the 1950s for the instructional book 'Play in a Day', which helped numerous aspiring musicians learn to play guitar. Contributed to the careers of various artists by providing an accessible approach to guitar playing. Worked alongside notable musicians and performed on numerous recordings throughout his career, influencing a generation of guitarists.
Authored the instructional book 'Play in a Day'
Influenced many musicians and guitarists in the UK
Performed with prominent artists in the music industry
Other People Born on May 10th
Gabriella Papadakis
French ice dancer, Olympic silver medalist
Born
May 10th, 1995 30 years ago
A prominent figure in ice dancing, won the Olympic silver medal at the 2018 Winter Games in PyeongChang alongside a skating partner. Achieved multiple titles in the Four Continents Championships and the World Championships. Renowned for technical skill and artistic expression on the ice. Competed at a high level for several years, consistently performing in international competitions.
Continue ReadingMahmoud Mokhtar
Egyptian sculptor and educator
Born
May 10th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
March 28th, 1934 91 years ago — 42 years old
An influential Egyptian sculptor and educator contributed significantly to modern Egyptian art. Painted a fusion of Pharaonic and modern styles, including the iconic statue 'The Lady in Mourning' which portrays a grieving woman reflecting Egyptian heritage. Established an art school that nurtured local talent and promoted cultural awareness through the arts. Worked extensively in marble and bronze, blending traditional techniques with contemporary themes.
Continue ReadingMike Hagerty
American actor in 'Friends' and 'Lucky Louie'
Born
May 10th, 1954 71 years ago
Died
2022 3 years ago — 68 years old
An actor with a career spanning several decades, known for roles in television and film. Gained prominence through appearances in popular series. Played various characters, often portraying quirky and comedic roles. Worked extensively in both television and film, contributing to a variety of productions.
Continue ReadingSid Vicious
English punk rock musician and bassist
Born
May 10th, 1957 68 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1979 46 years ago — 21 years old
A prominent figure in the punk rock movement, made significant contributions as a bassist for the influential band Sex Pistols. The band's album 'Never Mind the Bollocks, Here's the Sex Pistols' became a defining work of the genre. Vicious had a brief but impactful career and generated considerable attention for his tumultuous lifestyle and tragic narrative. His time with the band and subsequent solo work left an indelible mark on punk music history.
Continue ReadingAlex Schomburg
Puerto Rican painter and illustrator
Born
May 10th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
April 7th, 1998 27 years ago — 92 years old
A prominent painter and illustrator, created numerous covers for comic books and pulp magazines during the mid-20th century. Worked for publishers such as Timely Comics and Famous Funnies, gaining recognition for vibrant and dynamic art. His style often incorporated themes of science fiction and fantasy, contributing significantly to the visualization of these genres. In addition to comic book art, created posters and illustrations for various publishers, solidifying a legacy within the comic art community. Remains influential among comic artists and historians.
Continue ReadingGustav Stresemann
German Chancellor and Nobel laureate
Born
May 10th, 1878 147 years ago
Died
October 3rd, 1929 96 years ago — 51 years old
Served as Chancellor of Germany in 1923 and later as Foreign Minister. Played a significant role in the Weimar Republic and sought to stabilize Germany's economy after World War I. Advocated for the policy of reconciliation with the Allies, which included signing the Locarno Treaties in 1925. Received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1926 for efforts in promoting international cooperation and peace. Instrumental in Germany's admission to the League of Nations, fostering diplomatic relations.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 20th
Idriss Déby
Chadian politician and military officer
Born
1952 73 years ago
Died
April 20th, 2021 4 years ago — 69 years old
Served as the President of Chad from 1990 until 2021. Initially led a rebel group that overthrew the previous government, establishing a lengthy presidency marked by military engagements and governance challenges. Took power during a coup and maintained authority through military force and strategic political maneuvers. Involved in regional conflicts, notably in combating insurgencies from groups like Boko Haram. Held several international positions concerning African security and policy.
Continue ReadingLes McKeown
Scottish pop singer with Bay City Rollers
Born
November 12th, 1955 70 years ago
Died
April 20th, 2021 4 years ago — 65 years old
Originated from Scotland, a pop singer gained prominence as the lead vocalist of the Bay City Rollers during the 1970s. The group achieved significant success with their catchy tunes and vibrant image, becoming a defining act of the era. The chart-topping single "Bye Bye Baby" topped the UK Singles Chart. McKeown also contributed to the band’s distinctive style and sound, which blended pop with glam rock. After parting ways with the band, he pursued a solo career and continued to perform, bringing hits from his earlier days to new audiences. McKeown's influence in pop music and his representation of the Scottish music scene remained notable until his passing in 2021.
Continue ReadingFumio Niwa
Japanese journalist and author
Born
November 22nd, 1904 121 years ago
Died
April 20th, 2005 20 years ago — 100 years old
A prominent journalist and author in Japan, contributed to the field of journalism through insightful analyses and reporting. Wrote extensively on various social and political topics, influencing public opinion and discourse. Served as a significant voice in media, tackling issues of relevance to Japanese society. His works included a variety of essays and articles that reflected contemporary challenges faced by the nation.
Continue ReadingRick Rude
Professional wrestler and sportscaster
Born
December 7th, 1958 67 years ago
Died
April 20th, 1999 26 years ago — 40 years old
Started a career in professional wrestling in the 1980s, performing in major promotions such as World Wrestling Federation (WWF) and World Championship Wrestling (WCW). Achieved prominence for a captivating persona characterized by charisma and athleticism. Gained attention for trademark moves and rivalries against notable wrestlers. Transitioned into sportscasting after retiring from wrestling, offering insights into the wrestling industry. His legacy is remembered by fans and peers within the wrestling community.
Continue ReadingGiuseppe Sinopoli
Conductor and composer of operas
Born
November 2nd, 1946 79 years ago
Died
April 20th, 2001 24 years ago — 54 years old
Born in Italy, a prominent conductor and composer emerged in the classical music scene. Studied composition and conducting, leading to a significant career in opera and orchestral performance. Conducted major orchestras, including the Vienna State Opera and the Philharmonia Orchestra. Sinopoli's interpretations of operatic works, particularly those of Verdi and Wagner, were well regarded. Composed original works, integrating his deep understanding of both the technical and emotional aspects of music. Held a pivotal role in revitalizing various operatic productions throughout Europe during a distinguished career until untimely passing in 2001.
Continue ReadingBernard Katz
Biophysicist, Nobel Prize recipient
Born
March 26th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
April 20th, 2003 22 years ago — 92 years old
Born in Germany and later moving to England, this biophysicist made significant contributions to the understanding of neurotransmission. Research focused on the mechanisms of synaptic transmission, revealing how nerve cells communicate through chemical signals. Achievements included the development of the voltage clamp technique, which allowed precise measurements of ionic currents across cell membranes. This work paved the way for advances in neurobiology and pharmacology.
Continue Reading