Billy Preston
Singer-songwriter and musician
A prominent figure in the music industry, recognized for contributions as a singer-songwriter, pianist, and actor. Gained acclaim for work with artists such as The Beatles and Sly and the Family Stone. Achieved commercial success with hit singles like "Nothing from Nothing" and "Will It Go Round in Circles," both reaching the top of the charts. Served as a session musician for various renowned acts and participated in significant live performances, including the famous concert at Madison Square Garden in 1971 with George Harrison.
Performed on several tracks for The Beatles, including 'Get Back'
Released hit singles 'Nothing from Nothing' and 'Will It Go Round in Circles'
Collaborated with Sly and the Family Stone on classic hits
Other People Born on September 2nd
Marcus Ericsson
Race car driver; IndyCar Series Champion
Born
September 2nd, 1990 35 years ago
Started racing career in karting before progressing to single-seaters. Competed in the European Formula BMW championship, culminating in winning the title in 2007. Made his Formula 1 debut in 2014, racing for teams such as Caterham and Sauber. Transitioned to IndyCar in 2019, achieving notable success including winning the 2022 Indianapolis 500.
Continue ReadingMarcus Morris
American basketball player, NBA forward
Born
September 2nd, 1989 36 years ago
A professional basketball player who played as a forward in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Played for teams including the Phoenix Suns, Detroit Pistons, Boston Celtics, Los Angeles Clippers, and New York Knicks. Achieved success at the collegiate level, being named the 2011 Big 12 Player of the Year while playing for the University of Kansas. Played in the NBA Finals with the Boston Celtics in 2018, contributing significantly to the team's playoff run.
Continue ReadingChristian Bethancourt
Panamanian baseball player and catcher
Born
September 2nd, 1991 34 years ago
A professional baseball player primarily recognized for contributions as a catcher in Major League Baseball. Debuted with the Atlanta Braves in 2013, showcasing skills in both catching and outfield positions. Played for various teams, including the San Diego Padres and the Philadelphia Phillies. Transitioned to a successful career in international play and set records in the Panamanian league.
Continue ReadingAleksander Barkov
Ice Hockey Center and NHL Player
Born
September 2nd, 1995 30 years ago
Born in 1995, a professional ice hockey center made a significant mark in the NHL. Drafted second overall by the Florida Panthers in the 2013 NHL Entry Draft, played for the Panthers throughout his career. Contributed to the team's postseason appearances while serving as team captain. His skills and leadership on the ice garnered multiple awards, including the Frank J. Selke Trophy for best defensive forward in 2021.
Continue ReadingZedd
Electronic music producer and DJ
Born
September 2nd, 1989 36 years ago
A Russian-German record producer and DJ, recognized for contributions to electronic dance music. Initiated music training at a young age, mastering multiple instruments. Gained prominence with the release of hit singles and albums. Collaborated with major artists and achieved mainstream success. Recognized for a distinctive sound that blends various electronic genres.
Continue ReadingNickeil Alexander-Walker
Basketball player, NBA role with Pelicans
Born
September 2nd, 1998 27 years ago
A professional basketball player, contributed to teams in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Played college basketball at Virginia Tech, where significant scoring and defensive skills were showcased. Entered the NBA Draft in 2019 and was selected by the New Orleans Pelicans. Continuously developed playmaking abilities contributed to team success. Later joined the Utah Jazz as part of ongoing career in the league.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 6th
William Baziotes
American painter and academia figure
Born
June 11th, 1912 114 years ago
Died
June 6th, 1963 63 years ago — 50 years old
A prominent American painter, significant contributions were made to the abstract expressionism movement in the mid-20th century. Baziotes studied at the Art Students League of New York and later taught at various institutions, including the Brooklyn Museum Art School. His paintings often exhibited a blend of abstraction and surrealism, characterized by their use of color and form. Baziotes participated in numerous exhibitions and gained recognition for his work in the 1940s and 1950s, helping to shape modern art during that period.
Continue ReadingRobert F. Kennedy
64th U.S. Attorney General
Born
November 20th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
June 6th, 1968 58 years ago — 42 years old
Served as the 64th Attorney General of the United States from January 1961 until September 1964. Played a pivotal role in the civil rights movement, advocating for legislation aimed at improving the lives of African Americans. Also served as a U.S. Senator for New York from 1965 until his assassination in 1968. Campaigned for the Democratic presidential nomination in 1968, focusing on social justice and anti-war sentiments. His tenure was marked by strong opposition to organized crime and efforts to end racial segregation.
Continue ReadingJohn A. Macdonald
1st Prime Minister of Canada
Born
January 11th, 1815 211 years ago
Died
June 6th, 1891 135 years ago — 76 years old
A Scottish-Canadian lawyer and politician, served as the first Prime Minister of Canada from 1867 to 1873 and again from 1878 until 1891. Played a key role in the Confederation of Canada and the establishment of the Dominion. Worked to expand the nation through the acquisition of territories and the construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway, connecting the east and west coasts. Implemented policies that shaped Canadian politics and governance during the late 19th century.
Continue ReadingKenneth Rexroth
American poet and translator
Born
December 22nd, 1905 120 years ago
Died
June 6th, 1982 44 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent poet, translator, and academic, this individual significantly contributed to 20th-century American literature. Active in the influential San Francisco Poetry Renaissance, produced a body of work that combined personal experience with an interest in Eastern philosophy and spirituality. Worked on translations of classical Japanese poetry, bringing awareness of haiku to a wider audience. Engaged in literary criticism and was involved in leftist political movements throughout his career, fostering a dialogue on social issues through poetry and prose.
Continue ReadingHenri Vieuxtemps
Belgian violinist and composer
Born
February 17th, 1820 206 years ago
Died
June 6th, 1881 145 years ago — 61 years old
A prominent violinist and composer, contributions included important works for the violin as well as chamber music compositions. Achieved recognition as a leading violin virtuoso of the 19th century. Gained acclaim through performances across Europe, forming an essential part of the Belgian musical landscape. Served as a professor at the Conservatoire Royal de Bruxelles, influencing future generations of musicians.
Continue ReadingCamillo Benso
Italian politician, 1st Prime Minister of Italy
Born
August 10th, 1810 215 years ago
Died
June 6th, 1861 165 years ago — 50 years old
A prominent Italian soldier and politician, served as the 1st Prime Minister of Italy. Played a crucial role in the unification of Italy during the 19th century. Instrumental in diplomatic negotiations and military strategies that led to the consolidation of the Italian states into a single nation. Emphasized modernization and economic development during tenure. His leadership significantly shaped the modern Italian political landscape.
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