Blowfly
American singer-songwriter and producer
An influential figure in the genre of soul and hip hop, Blowfly produced and performed a unique blend of comedic and sexually explicit music. The artist, an early pioneer of rap, gained recognition through both original work and covers of popular songs with provocative lyrics. The persona adopted was one of a raunchy alter ego, often exploring themes not typically addressed in mainstream music. Throughout a career spanning several decades, Blowfly released numerous albums and singles, contributing to the evolution of hip hop and adult-themed pop music.
Created the album 'The Last Jerk'
Collaborated with various hip hop artists
Other People Born on February 14th
Christopher Latham Sholes
American politician and typewriter inventor
Born
February 14th, 1819 207 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1890 136 years ago — 71 years old
An influential figure in American publishing, contributed to the development of the typewriter. Served as a politician in the Wisconsin State Legislature. Developed a practical version of the modern typewriter, which led to widespread use in offices and homes. The QWERTY keyboard layout, designed to reduce jamming in early typewriters, was established through this innovation. Efforts in publishing included founding the first newspaper in Wisconsin.
Continue ReadingMel Allen
American sportscaster and voice of baseball
Born
February 14th, 1913 113 years ago
Died
June 16th, 1996 29 years ago — 83 years old
A prominent sportscaster, associated with baseball broadcasting. Served as the chief announcer for the New York Yankees from 1939 to 1964. Known for his distinctive voice and catchphrases, he provided commentary for numerous World Series and All-Star Games. Contributed to the growth of sports broadcasting, becoming a beloved figure among fans. Worked for various networks, including CBS and NBC, and had a significant role in the production of sports programming.
Continue ReadingGao Lin
Chinese footballer and international player
Born
February 14th, 1986 40 years ago
Gao Lin is a professional footballer who played as a forward. His career commenced at Shenzhen Jianlibao, where he debuted in 2004. Gao later moved to Guangzhou Evergrande, contributing significantly to the team's successes. He has represented the national team in various international competitions, including the AFC Asian Cup. Gao's playing style is characterized by his speed and technical skills on the field.
Continue ReadingRajaram Raj Bhonsle
Third Chhatrapati of the Maratha Confederacy
Born
February 14th, 1670 356 years ago
Died
1700 326 years ago — 30 years old
Ascended the throne as the third Chhatrapati of the Maratha Confederacy, consolidating power following the death of Shivaji Maharaj. Ruled during a tumultuous period, facing invasions and internal strife. Endured significant challenges from the Mughal Empire and sought to strengthen the Maratha position in India. He moved to the fortified location of Raigad for better defense and governance, continuing the legacy of his predecessor. His reign saw efforts to maintain the autonomy of the Maratha state amidst external pressures.
Continue ReadingStelios Haji-Ioannou
Businessman, founder of easyJet
Born
February 14th, 1967 59 years ago
A Greek-English businessman founded easyJet in 1995, revolutionizing the airline industry with low-cost travel options across Europe. The company became one of the largest low-cost carriers in the world. Haji-Ioannou has also launched various other ventures in the travel and retail sectors. His approach to entrepreneurship emphasizes accessibility in air travel and innovation in business models.
Continue ReadingGregory Hines
Actor and dancer known for 'White Nights'
Born
February 14th, 1946 80 years ago
Died
August 9th, 2003 22 years ago — 57 years old
Born in 1946, this individual gained prominence as a multifaceted performer specializing in dance and acting. Contributed to the revival of tap dancing in the 1980s and 1990s. Performed in various television shows and films, showcasing exceptional talent. Starred in the Broadway musical 'Eubie!' and earned a Tony Award for Outstanding Featured Actor in a Musical. Featured in the film 'White Nights' alongside Mikhail Baryshnikov, which highlighted extraordinary dance sequences. Continued to influence the arts until passing in 2003.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 17th
Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin
Spiritual leader, 52nd Da'i al-Mutlaq
Born
1915 111 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2014 12 years ago — 99 years old
Served as the 52nd Da'i al-Mutlaq of the Dawoodi Bohra community from 1965 until passing in 2014. Focused on religious and communal guidance, promoting education and social welfare among followers. Elevated the position of the community through various initiatives and projects, emphasizing the importance of unity and progress. Authored numerous religious texts and led annual pilgrimages to significant sites, strengthening the faith and community bonds.
Continue ReadingBenjamin Church
American colonial military leader
Born
1639 387 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1718 308 years ago — 79 years old
Served as a colonel in the British Army during the early colonial period. Played a significant role in King Philip's War, leading colonial forces against Native American tribes in New England. Founded the Church Company, contributing to colonial military tactics. His military strategies were influential in the development of American colonial defense.
Continue ReadingJohn of Brittany
Earl of Richmond
Born
1266 760 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1334 692 years ago — 68 years old
Served as the Earl of Richmond in the 14th century. Acted as a notable baron in England during the reign of Edward II. Engaged in various conflicts and political maneuvers characteristic of noble power struggles at the time. Became involved in the political landscape of Brittany and England, reflecting the intertwining of these regions through feudal allegiances.
Continue ReadingAlbert Jacka
Australian soldier, Victoria Cross recipient
Born
January 10th, 1893 133 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1932 94 years ago — 39 years old
Served as a soldier during World War I, participating in various key battles. Captured and held during the Gallipoli Campaign, later fought on the Western Front. Achieved the Victoria Cross for bravery at the 1916 Battle of Pozieres, recognized for acts of valor under heavy fire. Promoted to captain and held leadership positions in subsequent engagements.
Continue ReadingJuan Crisóstomo Arriaga
Spanish-French composer of symphonies
Born
January 27th, 1806 220 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1826 200 years ago — 19 years old
Born in 1806, a composer showcased talent in classical music, creating significant works in his short life. Became a prominent figure in the early Romantic period. His education included studying in Paris, where influences from various European composers shaped his musical style. Arriaga's contribution to symphonic music included the completion of several string quartets and symphonies, even though much of his work remained unpublished during his lifetime. His most acclaimed piece, Symphony in D major, demonstrated innovation in orchestration. His untimely death at the age of 19 left a lasting legacy in the realm of classical music.
Continue ReadingMelvin Day
New Zealand painter and historian
Born
1923 103 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2016 10 years ago — 93 years old
An accomplished painter and historian focused on New Zealand's artistic landscape. Specialization in traditional Māori art and contemporary New Zealand painting marked significant contributions. Worked as a lecturer in the School of Fine Arts at the University of Canterbury, influencing a generation of artists. Published various texts on art history and its context in New Zealand, enriching the understanding of the country's cultural identity.
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