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
Mort Garson
Songwriter and composer of electronic music
Born
July 20th, 1924 102 years ago
Died
2008 18 years ago — 84 years old
Born in Canada, this songwriter and composer gained prominence in the 1960s and 1970s. He is recognized for pioneering the use of synthesizers in popular music, blending genres and creating unique soundscapes. Notable works include the albums 'Plantasia' and 'Music for Plants', which showcased innovative electronic compositions aimed at the natural world. Collaborations with artists across various genres further established a distinct style that resonated with audiences.
Continue ReadingEdward Leigh
English politician and lawyer
Born
July 20th, 1950 76 years ago
Served as a member of the House of Commons representing Gainsborough since 1997. Educated at Magdalene College, Cambridge, obtained a degree in law. Worked in private legal practice before entering politics. Contributed to debates on various issues, including finance and public expenditure. Actively participated in parliamentary committees.
Continue ReadingMike Ilitch
Businessman and Detroit sports owner
Born
July 20th, 1929 97 years ago
Died
February 10th, 2017 9 years ago — 87 years old
Founded Little Caesars Pizza, which became a major national chain. Owned the Detroit Tigers, winning the 1984 World Series. Also owned the Detroit Red Wings, securing four Stanley Cup championships in 1997, 1998, 2002, and 2008. Active in various community initiatives and supported numerous charitable organizations.
Continue ReadingGerd Binnig
Physicist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
July 20th, 1947 79 years ago
A German physicist studied and contributed significantly to the field of scanning tunneling microscopy. Developed the first operational scanning tunneling microscope in 1981, which allowed the imaging of surfaces at the atomic level. Shared the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1986 for the invention of this groundbreaking technology, which has applications in various scientific fields including nanotechnology and materials science. Worked in academia and continued contributing to research and education in physics throughout a distinguished career.
Continue ReadingNikolaes Heinsius the Elder
Dutch poet and scholar of literature
Born
July 20th, 1620 406 years ago
Died
1681 345 years ago — 61 years old
Born in 1620, this individual contributed significantly to Dutch literature as a poet and scholar. Prominent in the literary scene, Heinsius engaged with classical works, translating and interpreting them for contemporary audiences. Extensive writings included poetry and critical essays, which influenced the poetic landscape of the time. He served as a member of the Amsterdam literary society, fostering connections among writers and intellectuals. His scholarly pursuits also included philological studies, enhancing the appreciation and understanding of classical texts in the Dutch language.
Continue ReadingPete Hamilton
Race car driver, Daytona 500 winner
Born
July 20th, 1942 84 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 75 years old
A race car driver from the United States, accomplished on the NASCAR circuit. Achieved significant success during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Won the prestigious Daytona 500 in 1970, solidifying a place in racing history. Competed for various teams throughout a career that spanned more than a decade, showing proficiency on both dirt and asphalt tracks.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 18th
Lothar Schmid
German chess player and arbiter
Born
May 10th, 1928 98 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2013 13 years ago — 85 years old
Accomplished chess player and international arbiter. Played in numerous tournaments throughout the 20th century. Achieved the title of International Arbiter in 1984. Contributed to various chess publications and served as an organizer for major chess events. Actively participated in the chess community, promoting the game across different platforms.
Continue ReadingAlan Oakley
Bicycle designer, Raleigh Chopper creator
Born
1927 99 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2012 14 years ago — 85 years old
An English bicycle designer, contributed to the design and development of the iconic Raleigh Chopper bicycle. The Raleigh Chopper, released in the early 1970s, became a cultural phenomenon and a symbol of youth culture during that era. Oakley's innovative design featured a long frame and distinctive handlebars, making it a popular choice among children and teenagers in Britain. His work with Raleigh also involved various other bicycle designs that played a role in the industry's evolution during the 20th century.
Continue ReadingKaiketsu Masateru
Sumo wrestler and coach, actively competed
Born
February 16th, 1948 78 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2014 12 years ago — 66 years old
Active in professional sumo wrestling from 1965 to 1998, achieved the highest rank of Yokozuna in 1995. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, training future generations in the sport. Contributed to the sumo community and upheld traditional practices.
Continue ReadingClarkson Stanfield
English painter of marine scenes
Born
1793 233 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1867 159 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent English painter specialized in marine and historical landscapes. Worked extensively in the 19th century, focusing on maritime subjects and producing oil paintings that captured the beauty of the sea. Served as a member of the Royal Academy and exhibited notable works throughout his career. Contributed to the genre of marine art, gaining recognition for evocative renderings of both naval battles and tranquil coastal views. Collaborated with other artists and participated in various exhibitions.
Continue ReadingHal Chase
Baseball player and manager
Born
February 13th, 1883 143 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1947 79 years ago — 64 years old
Played as a first baseman for teams including the Chicago White Sox and the New York Yankees. Managed the New York Yankees and the Newark Bears, contributing to the development of the teams. Involved in a major gambling scandal that influenced the game's integrity and rules. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1982, recognizing professional contributions to baseball.
Continue ReadingJo Benkow
Norwegian politician and soldier
Born
1924 102 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2013 13 years ago — 89 years old
Served as a member of the Norwegian Parliament for several terms. Held the position of President of the Parliament from 1993 to 1997. Participated in the military during World War II, contributing to Norway's resistance efforts against Nazi occupation. Engaged in various political activities after the war, including leadership roles in the Conservative Party.
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