Billy Strayhorn

American jazz composer and pianist

Billy Strayhorn - American jazz composer and pianist
Born

November 29th, 1915
109 years ago

Died

May 31st, 1967
57 years ago — 51 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

A prominent jazz composer and pianist, contributions include a lengthy partnership with Duke Ellington, writing many notable pieces that became staples of the jazz repertoire. Strayhorn's arrangements infused the band with sophistication and depth. He developed a unique style characterized by intricate melodies and harmonies. Despite struggles with health and recognition, his work stood out in jazz circles. His piece 'Take the 'A' Train' became one of Ellington's signature works, even though Strayhorn did not receive the acclaim he deserved during his lifetime. Many of his compositions are still performed and celebrated in contemporary jazz.

Wrote 'Take the 'A' Train'

Collaborated extensively with Duke Ellington

Other People Born on November 29th

Bill Freehan

Baseball player and sportscaster
Born
November 29th, 1941 83 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 80 years old

A professional baseball player and coach, played as a catcher for the Detroit Tigers in Major League Baseball from 1961 to 1976. Achieved significant success, including being an All-Star selection five times. After retiring as a player, transitioned into coaching before exploring a career in sportscasting. Contributed to baseball as a mentor through various roles in minor league baseball and spring training camps.

Continue Reading

John Ray

Botanist and natural historian
Born
November 29th, 1627 397 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1705 320 years ago — 77 years old

Significant contributions made to the field of botany, resulting in the development of modern plant classification. Utilized a systematic approach in the study of plants, setting foundational guidelines for botanical nomenclature. Authored several works, including 'Historia Plantarum,' which detailed various plant species and their characteristics. Contributions to natural history included studies on animal taxonomy and ecology.

Continue Reading

Hinton Battle

Actor and choreographer in Broadway
Born
November 29th, 1956 68 years ago
Died
2024 1 years ago — 68 years old

Born in Germany, an acclaimed actor, dancer, and choreographer moved to the United States at a young age. Achieved recognition on Broadway, performing in productions such as 'The Wiz,' 'Dreamgirls,' and 'Fosse.' Worked as a choreographer for various stage adaptations, showcasing expertise in dance and movement. Transitioned to television and film, appearing in series like 'The Cosby Show' and 'The Twilight Zone.'

Continue Reading

Franchesca Ramsey

Comedian and YouTube creator with activism
Born
November 29th, 1983 41 years ago

An American comedian and YouTube creator, gained prominence through the YouTube channel 'Chescaleigh', where commentary on social issues and race was presented through comedy. Worked as a writer and producer for the MTV show 'Decoded', which explored cultural topics and challenging stereotypes. Contributed to various media engagements discussing the intersections of race, politics, and pop culture.

Continue Reading

John Gary

American singer and television host
Born
November 29th, 1932 92 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 66 years old

Led a successful career as a singer and television host. Gained popularity in the 1960s for several recordings and appearances on variety shows. Released multiple albums featuring romantic ballads and popular standards, achieving significant commercial success. Hosted his own television variety show, which featured both musical performances and guest interviews, reaching a broad audience during its run.

Continue Reading

Damon Harrison

American football defensive tackle
Born
November 29th, 1988 36 years ago

A professional American football player primarily played as a defensive tackle. Harrison entered the NFL in 2012 as an undrafted free agent. He played for the New York Jets, where he made a name as a reliable run-stopper, earning accolades for defensive skills. Later, he joined the New York Giants, contributing significantly to the team's defense and playing a key role in their 2016 campaign. Harrison's ability to occupy blockers and disrupt opposing offenses was instrumental in his teams' defensive strategies throughout his career.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on May 31st

Randall B. Kester

American lawyer and judge
Born
1916 109 years ago
Died
May 31st, 2012 12 years ago — 96 years old

Served as a judge on the U.S. District Court for the District of Colorado. Appointed as a district judge in 1972 and assumed senior status in 1996. Kester contributed to several landmark decisions in various legal areas during a career that spanned several decades. Engaged in private legal practice prior to becoming a judge and served in various judicial capacities throughout his career.

Continue Reading

Herva Nelli

Italian-American soprano singer
Born
1909 116 years ago
Died
May 31st, 1994 30 years ago — 85 years old

An Italian-American soprano, gained prominence in the mid-20th century for performances in opera and concert settings. In the 1950s, became a member of the New York City Opera, where significant roles included performances in operas like 'La Bohème' and 'Carmen'. Nelli also performed internationally, showcasing vocal prowess in prestigious theaters across Europe and the United States. Her interpretations of operatic arias earned acclaim from both audiences and critics. Through her career, contributed to the popularization of opera in America.

Continue Reading

Jean Lannes

French Marshal and military leader
Born
April 10th, 1769 255 years ago
Died
May 31st, 1809 215 years ago — 40 years old

Born in France, served as a prominent general during the Napoleonic Wars. Lannes entered the French army at a young age and quickly distinguished himself through his bravery and tactical prowess. He was one of Napoleon's trusted marshals and played critical roles in several key battles, including the Battle of Austerlitz and the Battle of Jena. His leadership significantly contributed to French victories during this period. Lannes was appointed as Duke of Montebello and was a vital figure in the establishment of French dominance in Europe during the early 19th century. He was mortally wounded at the Battle of Aspern-Essling in 1809, leaving behind a legacy of military excellence.

Continue Reading

Marinho Chagas

Brazilian footballer and coach; World Cup winner
Born
February 8th, 1952 73 years ago
Died
May 31st, 2014 10 years ago — 62 years old

An accomplished footballer and coach, played as a left-back. Excelled in the 1970 FIFA World Cup, contributing to Brazil's victory. Transferred to clubs including Botafogo and Fluminense, and gained recognition for his skills and tactical awareness. Transitioned into coaching after retiring from playing, continuing engagement with the sport.

Continue Reading

Tintoretto

Italian painter, noted for The Last Judgment
Born
1518 507 years ago
Died
May 31st, 1594 430 years ago — 76 years old

An influential Italian painter of the Renaissance, active in Venice, created a distinctive style characterized by dramatic lighting and dynamic compositions. Foundational in the development of Mannerism, produced numerous works, including religious themes and portraits. Combined elements of Michelangelo’s intensity with Titian’s colorism. Established an innovative approach to narrative painting utilizing large canvases. Established a workshop and taught many students, contributing to the training of future artists.

Continue Reading

Jonas Bevacqua

Fashion Designer, co-founder of LRG
Born
1977 48 years ago
Died
May 31st, 2011 13 years ago — 34 years old

A fashion designer co-founded the Lifted Research Group (LRG) in 1999, focusing on streetwear that merged skate and hip-hop culture. LRG gained recognition for its innovative designs and collaborations, establishing a strong presence in the urban fashion scene. The brand became popular among celebrities and athletes, embodying a unique style that appealed to a youth audience. Over the years, LRG expanded its reach globally, contributing significantly to the streetwear market. The brand's success rested on its authentic representation of the culture it emerged from, and it maintained a loyal customer base until its challenges in the competitive fashion industry.

Continue Reading