Bob James

Keyboard player and music producer

Bob James - Keyboard player and music producer
Born

December 25th, 1939
85 years ago

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

A prominent figure in jazz and smooth jazz, contributed significantly to music as a keyboard player, songwriter, and producer. Played a key role in the development of jazz fusion and is recognized for blending jazz with contemporary rhythms. First gained major recognition with the album 'One' in 1974, which showcased innovative arrangements and compositions. Collaborated with various artists and producers, influencing the genre greatly. His work has been sampled by numerous hip-hop artists, leading to a resurgence of interest in his compositions.

Released the influential album 'One'

Composed the theme for 'Taxi' television series

Pioneered the smooth jazz genre

Other People Born on December 25th

Anwar Sadat

Egyptian politician; Nobel Peace Prize winner
Born
December 25th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
October 6th, 1981 43 years ago — 62 years old

Served as the third President of Egypt from 1970 until assassination in 1981. Implemented significant economic reforms and promoted a policy of open-door economic strategy. Initiated peace talks with Israel, culminating in the Camp David Accords in 1978 and the Egypt-Israel Peace Treaty in 1979. Played a crucial role in shifting Egypt’s foreign policy towards the West and established diplomatic relations with the United States.

Continue Reading

Conrad Hilton

Hotelier and founder of Hilton Hotels
Born
December 25th, 1887 137 years ago
Died
1979 46 years ago — 92 years old

An American entrepreneur established Hilton Hotels, one of the largest hotel chains in the world. Began hospitality business in 1919 by purchasing a small hotel in Cisco, Texas. Expanded rapidly through acquisitions and developments, ultimately creating a global brand. The Hilton name became synonymous with quality and service in the hospitality industry. Awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1966 for significant contributions to the hospitality sector and community.

Continue Reading

Sadiq al-Mahdi

Sudanese politician and Prime Minister
Born
December 25th, 1935 89 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 85 years old

Served as Prime Minister of Sudan from 1966 to 1967 and again from 1986 to 1989. Played a significant role in Sudanese politics throughout the late 20th century. Led the Umma Party and participated in various peace talks aimed at resolving conflicts in Sudan. During the 1980s, emphasized democratic governance and economic reforms within a challenging political landscape. Exiled in 1989 after a military coup, returning later to participate in political life.

Continue Reading

Chevalier de Saint-Georges

Caribbean-French violinist and composer
Born
December 25th, 1745 279 years ago
Died
June 9th, 1799 226 years ago — 53 years old

Born in the French Caribbean, a prominent violinist, composer, and conductor, became influential in classical music during the 18th century. Raised in France, developed a successful career in Paris, where gained recognition for exceptional violin performance and compositions. Worked as a conductor for the Concert des Amateurs, an important orchestra in France. Contributed to the repertoire of classical music with notable works, including symphonies and quartets. Continued to perform and compose until the late 18th century, leaving a lasting legacy in the music world.

Continue Reading

Ahmed Ben Bella

Algerian soldier and politician, 1st President
Born
December 25th, 1916 108 years ago
Died
April 11th, 2012 13 years ago — 95 years old

A soldier and politician played a key role in Algeria's struggle for independence from France. Served as the first President of Algeria from 1963 to 1965 after leading the National Liberation Front (FLN) during the war. After being overthrown in a coup, spent many years in exile. Returned to Algeria after the end of the civil war, becoming a respected figure in the country.

Continue Reading

Warren Robinett

Video game designer, creator of Adventure
Born
December 25th, 1951 73 years ago

A video game designer and pioneer in the gaming industry, contributed significantly to the field of interactive entertainment. Developed the landmark video game 'Adventure' for the Atari 2600, which is recognized as one of the first action-adventure games. Created innovative techniques for game design, including the use of hidden features and Easter eggs, which have become a staple in the industry. Worked at Atari and later founded his own company, subsequently influencing the design of many future games.

Continue Reading