Chris Cornell
Singer-songwriter and guitarist of Soundgarden
Cornell gained prominence as the lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist of the rock band Soundgarden, which played a key role in the 1990s Seattle grunge movement. The band achieved critical acclaim with albums like 'Superunknown' and 'Badmotorfinger'. In addition to his work with Soundgarden, he formed the band Audioslave, contributing to their success with hits like 'Like a Stone' and 'Cochise'. Cornell's solo career included the well-received album 'Euphoria Morning'. He was recognized for his powerful vocal range and emotional performances, earning multiple awards throughout his career including Grammys and an MTV Video Music Award. His contributions to music extended beyond his bands, with collaborations and contributions to soundtracks and tribute albums.
Lead vocalist of Soundgarden
Formed the band Audioslave
Other People Born on July 20th
Shahram Mahmoudi
Iranian volleyball player, 2014 AVC Champion
Born
July 20th, 1988 37 years ago
A prominent figure in volleyball, achieved significant success with the Iranian national team. Played a crucial role in the 2014 Asian Volleyball Championship, where the team secured the gold medal. Participated in numerous international competitions, contributing to the development of the sport in the country. Competed in various leagues, showcasing talent and skill, enhancing the profile of Iranian volleyball on the international stage.
Continue ReadingJavier Cortés
Mexican footballer with CRUZ AZUL success
Born
July 20th, 1989 36 years ago
A Mexican footballer, recognized for contributions to professional football, particularly during tenure at Cruz Azul. Cortés primarily played as a midfielder, showcasing skills that contributed to team dynamics and performance on the field. In 2014, played a crucial role in helping Cruz Azul win the Liga MX title, affirming his position in Mexican football. His career included appearances for other clubs in Mexico's professional leagues, demonstrating consistent performance and dedication to the sport.
Continue ReadingChiyoshōma Fujio
Mongolian sumo wrestler, Makuuchi division
Born
July 20th, 1991 34 years ago
Born in Mongolia, engaged in sumo wrestling since a young age. Moved to Japan in 2006 to pursue a career in the sport. Reached the Makuuchi division, the top division in professional sumo, in 2016. Competed under the Chiyotaikoku stable, showcasing skills in various tournaments.
Continue ReadingJess Walter
American journalist and author
Born
July 20th, 1965 60 years ago
Worked extensively as a journalist and authored multiple acclaimed novels. Gained recognition through the novel 'Beautiful Ruins', which explores the intersection of lives in the early 1960s and modern times. Contributed articles to several prominent publications, showcasing a range of topics and narrative styles. Achieved numerous awards for literary work, including the Edgar Award for Best Novel.
Continue ReadingNiall McGinn
Irish footballer, crucial for Aberdeen
Born
July 20th, 1987 38 years ago
McGinn is a professional footballer who played primarily as a winger. He began his career with Derry City in the League of Ireland before moving to Scotland. At Aberdeen, he was instrumental in securing the team's success in various competitions. McGinn has also represented the national team of Ireland at various levels, contributing to their campaign in international matches.
Continue ReadingLars Unnerstall
German footballer, goalkeeper
Born
July 20th, 1990 35 years ago
Born in Germany, a professional footballer specialized as a goalkeeper. Began career at Schalke 04, progressing through various youth teams. Made professional debut in the 2010-2011 season. Played for several clubs, including VfL Osnabrück, and participated in multiple league matches in Germany. Gained further experience by playing abroad, which included stints with teams in the Netherlands and Finland. Notable for consistent performances and strong defensive skills throughout career.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 18th
William Saroyan
American novelist and playwright
Born
August 31st, 1908 117 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1981 45 years ago — 72 years old
A significant writer during the 20th century, Saroyan authored numerous novels, plays, and short stories. He achieved recognition for works that depict the struggles and experiences of ordinary people. His most acclaimed works include the Pulitzer Prize-winning play 'The Time of Your Life' and the novel 'The Human Comedy'. Saroyan's writing often reflected his Armenian heritage and his experiences during the Great Depression. His unique narrative style combined realism with elements of joy and sorrow.
Continue ReadingWubbo Ockels
Dutch physicist and astronaut
Born
March 28th, 1946 80 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2014 12 years ago — 68 years old
Contributed significantly to space science and technology. Participated in the Space Shuttle mission STS-61-A in 1985, which was notable for being the first dedicated Dutch mission. Conducted experiments focusing on fluid dynamics and materials. Held a professorship at Delft University of Technology, where research included sustainable energy and the development of innovative technologies. Worked on projects promoting environmental awareness and sustainable living.
Continue ReadingChukwuedu Nwokolo
Nigerian physician and academic leader
Born
1921 105 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2014 12 years ago — 93 years old
Contributed to the field of medicine as a physician and academic, with a focus on clinical research and health care development in Nigeria. Worked extensively on advancing medical education and improving health services. Involved in numerous initiatives aimed at enhancing the healthcare system and trained a generation of medical professionals. Participated in various workshops and conferences to share knowledge and expertise in the medical community.
Continue ReadingPierre-Gilles de Gennes
Physicist, Nobel Prize laureate.
Born
October 24th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2007 19 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent physicist and academic, contributions focused on condensed matter physics and liquid crystals. Played a pivotal role in the development of the theory of liquid crystals and polymers. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1991 for discovering that methods developed for studying order phenomena in simple systems can be generalized to more complex forms of matter, in particular to liquid crystals and polymers.
Continue ReadingAlexander Godunov
Actor and dancer in 'Die Hard'
Born
November 28th, 1949 76 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1995 31 years ago — 45 years old
Born in Russia, Godunov trained as a ballet dancer at the Bolshoi Theatre. Defecting to the United States in 1979, he shifted focus to acting. Godunov appeared in several films, achieving acclaim for his role as the villain in 'Die Hard' alongside Bruce Willis. His performances showcased both his dance training and acting skills, contributing to his recognition in Hollywood. Godunov also performed in television series and stage productions, further solidifying his career in the entertainment industry before his passing in 1995.
Continue ReadingIsaac Albéniz
Spanish pianist and composer, Iberia
Born
May 29th, 1860 166 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1909 117 years ago — 48 years old
A prominent pianist and composer emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Early musical education took place in Barcelona and later in Brussels. Deployed innovative techniques and used Spanish folk themes in compositions. Iberia, a suite for piano, became one of the hallmark works showcasing intricate piano techniques and rich cultural references. Also, composed operas, piano works, and orchestral music, contributing to the classical music repertoire. Instrumental in establishing the 'Spanish' sound in classical music, influencing subsequent generations of composers.
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