Booker T. Jones
Award-winning musician and songwriter
An iconic American musician, played piano and organ in the 1960s as part of the band Booker T. & the MG's, which served as the house band for Stax Records. The group contributed significantly to the soul and R&B movement, with the hit instrumental single 'Green Onions' reaching widespread acclaim. Also worked as a producer and collaborated with various artists, influencing a wide range of genres beyond soul. Received multiple Grammy Awards recognizing contributions to music, including a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2007.
'Green Onions' instrumental hit
Formation of Booker T. & the MG's
Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award
Other People Born on November 12th
Jack Oakie
American actor, comedian, and director
Born
November 12th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1978 48 years ago — 74 years old
Active in film from the 1920s to the 1970s, Oakie gained prominence in the comedy genre. His career spanned silent films and the talkie era, showcasing talents in humor and performance. Oakie appeared in major films such as 'The Great Dictator', where he starred alongside Charlie Chaplin. He also contributed to various Broadway productions, establishing a reputation for his comedic abilities. His work in cinema and theatre earned him a place in the entertainment industry as a beloved figure.
Continue ReadingBenjamin Mkapa
Tanzanian politician and journalist
Born
November 12th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
2020 6 years ago — 82 years old
Served as the third President of Tanzania from 1995 to 2005. Before his presidency, worked as a journalist and held various government positions, including Minister of Information, Culture and Sports. During the presidency, focused on economic reform and privatization, initiating policies to improve infrastructure and education. His administration promoted democratic processes and engaged in peace efforts in the region. After leaving office, continued involvement in political and diplomatic activities, contributing to national and continental discussions.
Continue ReadingCharles Manson
American cult leader and criminal
Born
November 12th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
November 19th, 2017 8 years ago — 83 years old
Led a notorious cult in the late 1960s that orchestrated a series of murders in California. Manson's followers carried out the infamous Tate-LaBianca murders in 1969, which drew national attention and led to his arrest. Manson cultivated a persona that attracted a group of devoted followers, promoting a belief system that combined elements of counterculture and apocalyptic prophecy. His trial and subsequent conviction for first-degree murder and conspiracy became highly publicized, resulting in life sentences in prison. Manson's legacy remains controversial and has been the subject of numerous media portrayals.
Continue ReadingErrol Brown
Jamaican-English singer-songwriter with hit songs
Born
November 12th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
2015 11 years ago — 72 years old
Born in Jamaica and later moving to England, a singer-songwriter gained prominence as the lead vocalist of the band Hot Chocolate. The group achieved commercial success in the 1970s and 1980s, known for blending pop, soul, and reggae sounds. One of the most beloved songs, 'You Sexy Thing,' topped charts worldwide and became a cultural staple. The band's energetic performances and distinctive style garnered a loyal fan base, leading to numerous hit singles and albums throughout its career.
Continue ReadingTadeusz Borowski
Polish poet and Auschwitz survivor
Born
November 12th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
July 1st, 1951 74 years ago — 28 years old
Born in 1922, this individual was a Polish poet, author, and journalist whose experiences during World War II had a profound influence on his writings. Imprisoned in Auschwitz, he later wrote about the horrors of the Holocaust and the human condition. His collection of short stories, 'This Way for the Gas, Ladies and Gentlemen,' explored the bleak realities of life in the concentration camps. After the war, he continued to write and engage with the literary community in Poland until his untimely death in 1951. His work remains significant in the canon of Holocaust literature.
Continue ReadingSun Yat-sen
Chinese physician, 1st President of China
Born
November 12th, 1866 159 years ago
Died
March 12th, 1925 100 years ago — 58 years old
A prominent figure in early 20th-century Chinese politics, served as the provisional first president of the Republic of China in 1912. Played a crucial role in the overthrow of the Qing Dynasty, advocating for nationalism, democracy, and people's livelihood. His political philosophy was encapsulated in the Three Principles of the People, which influenced future political developments in China. Throughout his life, sought to establish a modern nation-state and improve the welfare of the Chinese populace through reforms.
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