Blind Willie McTell

Piedmont blues musician and songwriter

Blind Willie McTell - Piedmont blues musician and songwriter
Born

May 5th, 1898
127 years ago

Died

1959
66 years ago — 61 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

Active primarily in the 20th century, this artist was a prominent figure in the Piedmont blues genre. Starting to gain recognition in the 1920s, the performer recorded a significant body of work, showcasing exceptional guitar skills and unique vocal style. Influenced by various musical traditions, this musician's recordings featured a range of themes including love, social issues, and storytelling. The impact on the blues genre continues to be acknowledged even decades after passing away in 1959. The musician's music inspired later generations of blues and rock artists, cementing a lasting legacy in American music history.

Recorded 'Statesboro Blues'

Contributed to the development of Piedmont blues

Other People Born on May 5th

Viktor Hartmann

Russian painter and architect
Born
May 5th, 1834 191 years ago
Died
August 4th, 1873 151 years ago — 39 years old

Born in 1834, this individual contributed significantly to Russian art and architecture. Education included studying architecture, which led to a career that blended both disciplines. The individual became affiliated with the World of Art movement, fostering a fusion of artistic and architectural principles in Russian culture. A major event was the 1871 exhibition in memory of the individual, which showcased various works and cemented the influence on later generations of artists, particularly in the realms of design and illustration.

Continue Reading

Françoise Charlotte d'Aubigné

French noblewoman and courtier
Born
May 5th, 1684 341 years ago
Died
1739 286 years ago — 55 years old

Born into a prominent family, spent significant time at the French court. Married Adrien Maurice de Noailles, a distinguished military officer. Held a position in the court of Louis XIV, where she navigated the complexities of royal favor. Engaged in the cultural and political life of the period, associated with the influential aristocratic circles of France. Known for her correspondence with notable intellectuals and social figures of the time.

Continue Reading

Delia Derbyshire

Electronic music composer and arranger
Born
May 5th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
2001 24 years ago — 64 years old

An English musician, arranger, and composer, credited with pioneering electronic music. Derbyshire worked at the BBC Radiophonic Workshop, where she created innovative soundscapes using tape manipulation and electronic instruments. She is most recognized for the iconic theme for the television series Doctor Who, a groundbreaking work in electronic music. Her contributions to the field of audio production and experimental music have influenced many contemporary artists.

Continue Reading

Brian Williams

Journalist and NBC Nightly News anchor
Born
May 5th, 1959 66 years ago

Served as the anchor and managing editor of NBC Nightly News from 2004 to 2015. Played a significant role in covering major events, including 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina. Faced criticism and a suspension for inaccuracies in reporting. Joined MSNBC as a breaking news anchor after leaving NBC Nightly News.

Continue Reading

James Beard

American chef and author of cookbooks
Born
May 5th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1985 40 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent figure in American cuisine, this chef significantly contributed to the culinary arts. He authored several cookbooks that became influential in shaping modern cooking practices. In addition to writing, he taught cooking classes that helped to elevate the profession of chefs. He founded the James Beard Foundation, which supports and promotes the culinary arts in the United States. His teachings and writings greatly influenced generations of chefs and home cooks. This chef's enthusiasm for food translated into a celebrated television career, appearing on various cooking shows that introduced American audiences to fine dining.

Continue Reading

James Cracknell

English rower and Olympic gold medalist
Born
May 5th, 1972 53 years ago

A rower achieved success in the sport during the late 1990s and early 2000s. Competed in the men's coxless four and secured a gold medal at the 2000 Sydney Olympics. Also represented Great Britain in various World Championships, contributing to multiple medal victories. Beyond rowing, took part in adventurous endeavors, including long-distance challenges such as cycling and running. Engaged in television presenting and authored books about his experiences.

Continue Reading