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
Pierre-Claude Nivelle de La Chaussée
Playwright with significant contributions
Born
February 14th, 1692 333 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1754 271 years ago — 62 years old
A prominent French playwright in the 18th century, contributed significantly to the genre of comedy. Authored several plays that showcased the evolution of French theater. Pioneered the comic drama format, blending humor with serious themes. His works laid the groundwork for future developments in French theatrical literature.
Continue ReadingMeg Tilly
American actress and author
Born
February 14th, 1960 65 years ago
An actress and author, contributions span both film and literature. Gained recognition for roles in 'The Big Chill' and 'The Wish List.' Authored several novels, including 'Singing Songs.' Career featured a focus on complex character portrayals in independent films and mainstream cinema.
Continue ReadingJulian Scott
American soldier and Medal of Honor recipient
Born
February 14th, 1846 179 years ago
Died
1901 125 years ago — 55 years old
Born in 1846, served as a soldier during the American Civil War. Displayed exceptional bravery at the Battle of the Wilderness, which led to the award of the Medal of Honor. Contributed to military history through his acts of valor on the battlefield. In addition to military service, played the drums and was recognized for musical talents.
Continue ReadingKen Wahl
American actor, star of 'Wiseguy'
Born
February 14th, 1957 68 years ago
An American actor received recognition for the role of Vince Terrazi in the television series 'Wiseguy'. Career began in the late 1970s, quickly establishing a presence in film and television. Gained further fame with appearances in movies such as 'The Wanderers' and 'The Sword and the Sorcerer'. His performance in 'Wiseguy' earned critical acclaim and contributed to the show's success during its original run in the late 1980s and early 1990s.
Continue ReadingJadeveon Clowney
American football defensive end
Born
February 14th, 1993 32 years ago
An American football defensive end, celebrated for exceptional skills on the field. Played college football at the University of South Carolina, earning multiple accolades, including the prestigious Chuck Bednarik Award. Selected first overall by the Houston Texans in the 2014 NFL Draft. Has played for several teams in the NFL, including the Houston Texans, Seattle Seahawks, and the Cleveland Browns. Represented the Texans in the Pro Bowl and contributed to the team's playoff appearances.
Continue ReadingBreel Embolo
Swiss footballer with Bundesliga success
Born
February 14th, 1997 28 years ago
A professional footballer who played as a forward, Embolo began his career at FC Basel, where he won the Swiss Super League multiple times. After moving to the Bundesliga, Embolo played for FC Schalke 04 and later for Borussia Mönchengladbach. He also represented Switzerland in international competitions, participating in the UEFA European Championship and FIFA World Cup.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 17th
Charlie Bell
Australian businessman and CEO of McDonald's
Born
November 7th, 1960 65 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2005 21 years ago — 44 years old
Became the CEO of McDonald's Corporation in 2004 after a successful career within the company. Started working at McDonald's in 1978, eventually leading to significant leadership positions. Instrumental in McDonald's expansion and innovation strategies during tenure. Passed away in 2005 after a battle with cancer.
Continue ReadingErich Segal
American author and screenwriter
Born
June 16th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2010 16 years ago — 72 years old
An author and screenwriter, contributed significantly to literature and film. Graduated from Harvard University and taught classics at Yale University. Achieved notoriety with the best-selling novel 'Love Story', which explored themes of love and loss. Also wrote screenplays, including 'Yellow Submarine'. His works often focused on romantic relationships and social issues, resonating with a wide audience and becoming cultural touchstones.
Continue ReadingVirginia Mayo
American actress, singer, dancer
Born
November 30th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2005 21 years ago — 84 years old
An actress, singer, and dancer active in film and television from the 1940s to the 1980s. Gained prominence in classic films during the Golden Age of Hollywood. Starred in the film 'The Best Years of Our Lives' and opposite James Cagney in 'White Heat.' Appeared in various musicals and comedies, showcasing both dramatic and comedic talents. Transitioned to television in later years, maintaining a presence on various shows.
Continue ReadingGiovanni Aldini
Physicist and academic from Italy
Born
April 10th, 1762 263 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1834 192 years ago — 71 years old
An Italian physicist and academic, contributed significantly to the study of electricity and galvanism. Developed techniques for applying electrical currents to living tissues. Conducted public demonstrations showcasing the effects of galvanism, including the revival of the apparently dead. Pioneered research in bioelectricity, laying foundational work for future exploration in the field. Served as a professor at the University of Bologna and made notable contributions to the understanding of sensory organs through experimental science.
Continue ReadingRay Stark
American film producer, producer of 'Funny Girl'
Born
October 3rd, 1915 110 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2004 22 years ago — 88 years old
A film producer engaged in the industry from the 1940s through the early 2000s. Produced films such as 'Funny Girl' and 'The Goodbye Girl.' Worked on numerous other successful projects, contributing to both box office and critical acclaim. Established a career that included collaborations with various prominent directors and actors. Received multiple Academy Award nominations throughout his career, reflecting contributions to the art of film production.
Continue ReadingJyoti Basu
Indian politician and Chief Minister
Born
July 8th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2010 16 years ago — 95 years old
Served as the 9th Chief Minister of West Bengal from 1977 to 2000. Played a significant role in the Indian political landscape, particularly as a leader of the Communist Party of India (Marxist). Led a government that was one of the longest-serving democratically elected communist governments in the world. Instrumental in promoting social welfare programs and agrarian reforms in the state, impacting the lives of many citizens. Resigned from the role in 2000 and became an influential figure in Indian politics until his death in 2010.
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