Betty Carter
Jazz Singer and Songwriter
A prominent jazz singer and songwriter, known for unique vocal improvisation and a distinctive style that blended traditional and contemporary jazz. Established a career in music that spanned several decades, contributing to the genre’s evolution. Gained prominence in the 1970s and formed her own record label, Bet-Car Productions, allowing for greater creative control over her work. Released acclaimed albums that showcased her original compositions and arrangements. Mentored young jazz musicians through workshops and performances.
Founded Bet-Car Productions
Released notable albums such as 'Feed the Fire' and 'Look What I Got'
Received a Grammy Award for Best Jazz Vocal Performance in 1993
Other People Born on May 16th
Friedrich Gulda
Austrian pianist and composer
Born
May 16th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
January 27th, 2000 26 years ago — 69 years old
Gulda gained recognition as both a classical pianist and a jazz musician. He studied under several prominent teachers, including the renowned Alfred Brendel. Gulda's performances often included a blend of classical repertoire and improvisation, reflecting his dual interests. Instrumental in promoting new music, he composed several works for piano and chamber ensembles. Gulda was also associated with the Vienna Philharmonic and recorded extensive solo piano works, notably the complete Beethoven sonatas. His innovative style and approach broke traditional boundaries between genres.
Continue ReadingTanel Tammet
Estonian computer scientist and engineer
Born
May 16th, 1965 60 years ago
Born in 1965, this individual has made significant contributions to computer science and engineering, particularly in research and education. The academic role involved teaching at the University of Tartu and holding various positions within the field. Focus has also been on areas such as theoretical informatics and machine learning. Several publications in reputable journals highlight the findings in the domain of algorithm design and optimization, showcasing expertise in the intersection of computer science and mathematics.
Continue ReadingRicardo Costa
Footballer, UEFA Europa League winner
Born
May 16th, 1981 44 years ago
A Portuguese footballer played as a defender primarily. Career spanned over two decades, featuring stints at clubs such as F.C. Porto, where significant contributions led to multiple domestic league titles. Also played for clubs like Losc Lille and Wolverhampton Wanderers, highlighting versatility across leagues. Competed internationally with the Portuguese national team, participating in major tournaments including the UEFA European Championship and the FIFA World Cup. Retired from professional football in 2016.
Continue ReadingBruce Norris
Playwright, won Pulitzer Prize
Born
May 16th, 1960 65 years ago
A playwright, recognized for contributions to contemporary theater. Works often address social issues and provoke critical thought. Achieved prominence with the play "Clybourne Park," which explores themes of race and gentrification. The play received the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 2011. Other works include "The Pain and the Itch" and "A Parallelogram," both of which showcase distinctive narrative styles and character complexity. Norris has also engaged in various collaborative artistic projects and contributed to dialogues about theater's role in society.
Continue ReadingMilton Jones
Comedian with absurdist humor style
Born
May 16th, 1964 61 years ago
An English comedian, actor, and screenwriter developed a distinctive style of absurdist humor, incorporating one-liners and wordplay. Gained prominence through television appearances, including on shows like 'Mock the Week' and 'The Matthew Wright Show.' Created and starred in the BBC Radio 4 series 'Milton Jones's Possible Impossibilities,' showcasing a unique blend of surreal comedy. Additionally performed stand-up comedy across the UK and internationally, earning a reputation for his outlandish jokes and clever puns.
Continue ReadingJuan Rulfo
Mexican author of 'Pedro Páramo'
Born
May 16th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
January 7th, 1986 40 years ago — 68 years old
An influential Mexican author and photographer, contributions included novels and short stories that explored the complexities of rural life in Mexico. 'Pedro Páramo' remains a significant work in Latin American literature, blending magical realism with the harsh realities of existence. Besides fiction, produced substantial photography that captured the essence of Mexican culture and landscapes. Involved in screenwriting for film, bringing literary themes to visual media, including the adaptation of his own work.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 26th
Sylvia Fedoruk
Physicist and 17th Lieutenant Governor
Born
1927 99 years ago
Died
September 26th, 2012 13 years ago — 85 years old
A physicist and politician served as the 17th Lieutenant Governor of Saskatchewan from 1988 to 1994. Contributed to the development of medical physics at the University of Saskatchewan. Involved in health care and educational initiatives throughout the province. Engaged in community service and played a significant role in promoting women's involvement in science and politics.
Continue ReadingTerry Newton
Rugby player and coach
Born
1978 48 years ago
Died
September 26th, 2010 15 years ago — 32 years old
Played professional rugby for teams including the Leeds Rhinos, Huddersfield Giants, and Wakefield Trinity. Had a successful career in the Super League and earned international caps representing England. Transitioned to coaching after retirement from playing, focusing on youth development and grassroots rugby. Faced challenges with personal health issues throughout career.
Continue ReadingIván Persa
Slovenian priest and author
Born
April 2nd, 1861 165 years ago
Died
September 26th, 1935 90 years ago — 74 years old
Born in Slovenia, a priest contributed to religious and literary fields. Authored several works that focused on spirituality and moral teachings. Engaged in community service and pastoral care, emphasizing education and moral development.
Continue ReadingMarc Moulin
Belgian keyboard player and producer
Born
1942 84 years ago
Died
September 26th, 2008 17 years ago — 66 years old
A keyboard player, producer, and journalist was influential in the Belgian music scene. Active in the 1970s and 1980s, contributed to various genres including jazz, funk, and electronic music. Founded the band Placebo, which released several acclaimed albums. Produced and collaborated with other notable artists, enriching the Belgian music landscape.
Continue ReadingSam Steiger
Journalist and U.S. Congressman
Born
March 10th, 1929 97 years ago
Died
September 26th, 2012 13 years ago — 83 years old
Served as a journalist in the 1950s and 1960s, contributing to various publications. Transitioned to politics, representing Arizona in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1971 to 1975. Advocated for various local and national issues during tenure. Later returned to journalism, writing columns and engaging in public discourse on political matters.
Continue ReadingSidney Phillips
American soldier, physician, author
Born
1924 102 years ago
Died
September 26th, 2015 10 years ago — 91 years old
Served in the United States military during World War II as a Marine and participated in key battles in the Pacific theater. After the war, pursued a career in medicine and became a physician. Authored several books detailing wartime experiences and medical practices, contributing to literature on military history. Engaged in public speaking about the impact of war and the importance of medical care for veterans.
Continue Reading