Chris Bell
Singer-songwriter and guitarist, Big Star
Born
Died
Category
Artists & Creatives
Country
United States
Links & References
A prominent figure in the power pop genre, this musician formed the band Big Star in the early 1970s, which gained critical acclaim despite limited commercial success. The band's albums, particularly 'No Sex' and 'Radio City', featured innovative songwriting and arrangements and have since influenced many artists. Following Big Star, this artist pursued a solo career, producing the album 'I Am the Cosmos', which showcased songwriting skills and melodic sensibility. His work garnered recognition retrospectively, influencing future generations in alternative rock.
Co-founded the band Big Star
Released the solo album 'I Am the Cosmos'
Other People Born on January 12th
Dick Motz
Cricketer, Test player for New Zealand
Born
January 12th, 1940 86 years ago
Died
April 29th, 2007 18 years ago — 67 years old
A prominent cricketer, Motz represented New Zealand in the 1960s and 1970s. Primarily a fast bowler, Motz played in 15 Test matches. His cricketing skills made significant contributions to the New Zealand team during this era. In addition to his Test career, he was also active in domestic cricket, where he played for Wellington. Motz's performances in both formats solidified his place in New Zealand's cricket history.
Continue ReadingAntonio de Ulloa
Spanish general and politician, Louisiana Governor
Born
January 12th, 1716 310 years ago
Died
July 3rd, 1795 230 years ago — 79 years old
Born in Spain in 1716, a military officer and politician served as the first Spanish governor of Louisiana from 1766 to 1768. Played a significant role in establishing Spanish control over the region following the transfer of Louisiana from France. Focused on governance and economic development, promoting agriculture and trade as vital to the colony's success. His tenure included efforts to improve relations with local Indigenous tribes. Departed from Louisiana after a brief governorship due to political challenges and returned to Spain, where continued military service ensued until later in life.
Continue ReadingJijabai Shahaji Bhosale
Mother of Indian King Shivaji Maharaj
Born
January 12th, 1598 428 years ago
Died
1674 352 years ago — 76 years old
Born on January 12, 1598, Jijabai Shahaji Bhosale played a crucial role in the early life of Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire. Raised in a time of political turmoil, she instilled a sense of valor and resilience in her son. Jijabai's influence as a mother and her strong beliefs in independence and leadership significantly shaped Shivaji's ideologies. She was instrumental in his upbringing and education, emphasizing the importance of waging a just war against oppression. Her legacy continued to influence the Maratha Empire long after her death, as her teachings guided Shivaji's strategies and governance.
Continue ReadingAxel Witsel
Belgian footballer and national team player
Born
January 12th, 1989 37 years ago
A professional footballer played as a midfielder. Started career at Standard Liège, winning the Belgian Pro League in 2008. Transferred to Benfica in 2011, contributing to the team's Primeira Liga title. Joined Russian club Zenit Saint Petersburg in 2012, winning the Russian Premier League, and later played for Tianjin Quanjian in China. Returned to Europe with Borussia Dortmund, competing in the Bundesliga. Regularly represented the national team since 2008, participating in UEFA Euro tournaments and FIFA World Cups.
Continue ReadingAmerie
Singer-songwriter with '1 Thing'
Born
January 12th, 1980 46 years ago
An American singer-songwriter, producer, and writer emerged in the early 2000s, gaining prominence with the release of the hit single '1 Thing' from the album 'Touch.' This work showcased a distinctive blend of R&B and hip-hop elements. The artist's debut album, 'All I Have,' also received critical acclaim, including a Grammy nomination. Beyond music, involvement in writing and production illustrated versatility and creativity in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingSwami Vivekananda
Indian monk and philosopher, Vedanta leader
Born
January 12th, 1863 163 years ago
Died
July 4th, 1902 123 years ago — 39 years old
A key figure in the introduction of Indian philosophies of Vedanta and Yoga to the Western world. Played a significant role in the revival of Hinduism in India and the promotion of a universal approach to spirituality. Delivered a historic speech at the Parliament of the World's Religions in Chicago in 1893, emphasizing tolerance and the acceptance of diverse religious practices. Founded the Ramakrishna Mission to provide social service and spiritual education. His teachings emphasized the importance of self-realization and the divinity within every individual.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 27th
Tingye Li
Physicist and engineer specializing in optics
Born
1931 95 years ago
Died
December 27th, 2012 13 years ago — 81 years old
Tingye Li contributed extensively to the fields of optics and photonics. His research focused on advanced optical technologies. He published numerous papers and held multiple patents related to optical systems. Li served as a professor at several prestigious institutions, advancing the education of future engineers and physicists. His efforts in academia and industry led to significant advancements in optical devices.
Continue ReadingUlises Estrella
Ecuadorian poet and academic
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
December 27th, 2014 11 years ago — 75 years old
A prominent Ecuadorian poet and academic focused on literature and education. Contributed significantly to Ecuadorian poetry through various publications and teachings. Participated in literary movements and collaborated with other poets and intellectuals in the region. Engaged in academic discourse, promoting literature and cultural studies within Ecuadorian universities.
Continue ReadingFrank Blaichman
Polish resistance fighter during WWII
Born
1922 104 years ago
Died
December 27th, 2018 7 years ago — 96 years old
Participated in the Polish resistance against Nazi Germany during World War II. After being captured and detained, escaped from a German prison and continued to fight against occupying forces. Contributed to Jewish resistance efforts and later settled in the United States, where he shared his experiences and advocated for Jewish history and memory.
Continue ReadingArchie Roy
Scottish astronomer and academic with books
Born
June 24th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
December 27th, 2012 13 years ago — 88 years old
An astronomer and academic, contributed significantly to the field of astronomy. Worked as a professor at the University of Glasgow, specializing in astrodynamics and celestial mechanics. Authored several books on astronomy and was involved in various educational initiatives to promote interest in the sciences. Participated in the establishment of the Glasgow Astronomical Society and contributed to radio astronomy research.
Continue ReadingGreg Gumbel
American sportscaster and news anchor
Born
May 3rd, 1946 79 years ago
Died
December 27th, 2024 1 years ago — 78 years old
Born in 1946, this sportscaster started his career in the 1970s. He served as a sports anchor for several television stations, including CBS Sports, where he became a prominent figure. This individual hosted various major sports events, including the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament and the NFL on CBS, showcasing expertise in live sports broadcasting. Over the years, this sportscaster allowed audiences to follow significant moments in sports history through his coverage and commentary.
Continue ReadingJ. B. L. Reyes
Filipino lawyer and Supreme Court Justice
Born
1902 124 years ago
Died
December 27th, 1994 31 years ago — 92 years old
Served as an important figure in the Philippine judiciary. Earned recognition for contributions to legal thought and interpretation of laws. Held the position of Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the Philippines, influencing major judicial decisions. Engaged in public service and legal education throughout a distinguished career.
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