Criss Oliva
Guitarist and songwriter for Savatage
A prominent American guitarist and songwriter, significant contributions to the heavy metal genre occurred through work with the band Savatage. The band gained recognition for its unique blend of progressive and heavy metal sounds. Criss Oliva's guitar work and songwriting played a critical role in shaping the band's identity. The album 'Hall of the Mountain King' released in 1987 received acclaim and is considered a hallmark in heavy metal music. Oliva's style combined technical proficiency with melodic riffs. His life was abruptly cut short in 1993, but his legacy continues to influence guitarists and metal musicians.
Played guitar and wrote songs for Savatage
Contributed to the album 'Hall of the Mountain King'
Other People Born on April 3rd
Ervin Drake
American songwriter and composer
Born
April 3rd, 1919 106 years ago
Died
January 15th, 2015 11 years ago — 95 years old
A prominent songwriter and composer, contributed to the American music scene through several well-loved songs. Created classics that have been performed and recorded by numerous artists over the decades. Collaborated with various musicians and worked on Broadway shows, leaving a lasting legacy within the music industry.
Continue ReadingMary Carpenter
Educational and social reformer
Born
April 3rd, 1807 218 years ago
Died
June 14th, 1877 148 years ago — 70 years old
Born in England, a prominent educational and social reformer focused on improving educational opportunities for the poor and advocating for social welfare. Established training schools for teachers and initiated the first juvenile reformatory. Worked extensively to promote education for girls and women and fought for child welfare laws. Developed the concept of training schools for teachers that influenced future education systems.
Continue ReadingAnders Eliasson
Swedish composer and orchestral musician
Born
April 3rd, 1947 78 years ago
Died
May 20th, 2013 12 years ago — 66 years old
Born in Sweden, this composer gained recognition for contributions to orchestral works and chamber music. Education included studies at the Royal College of Music in Stockholm. Influenced by contemporary music, created a distinct sound characterized by innovative rhythms and harmonies. Composed numerous pieces that have been performed by leading orchestras and ensembles across Europe. Worked extensively in various musical forms, from symphonies to concertos, and collaborated with fellow musicians to enhance the contemporary classical scene. Among other achievements, served as a professor at a prominent music school, guiding future generations of composers and musicians.
Continue ReadingSally Rand
Dancer with unique fan dance performances
Born
April 3rd, 1904 121 years ago
Died
August 31st, 1979 46 years ago — 75 years old
Born in 1904, a celebrated American dancer gained fame during the 1920s for her distinctive fan dance. Her performances often incorporated large feather fans, captivating audiences with elaborate stagecraft and choreography. Rand became a prominent figure in the cabaret scene and gained further notoriety at the 1933 World's Fair in Chicago, where she performed her alluring dance amidst a backdrop of various attractions. Over the years, her performances transcended mere entertainment; they influenced the evolving landscape of American dance and theater. Throughout her career, numerous stage appearances showcased her integration of theatricality and sensuality, helping to define a new era for dance entertainment.
Continue ReadingRay Combs
Game show host of Family Feud
Born
April 3rd, 1956 69 years ago
Died
June 2nd, 1996 29 years ago — 40 years old
A prominent game show host, Combs gained recognition for hosting the television game show "Family Feud" during its revival from 1988 to 1994. Prior to this role, Combs showcased his talents as a comedian and entertainer in various venues, including stand-up comedy performances. His engaging personality and quick wit contributed to the show's popularity during his tenure. Combs also served as the host for other game shows, including "The Home Game" and "Family Challenge." Combs' journey in the entertainment industry was marked by his ability to connect with audiences, both in live performances and on television.
Continue ReadingHelmut Kohl
German Chancellor during reunification
Born
April 3rd, 1930 95 years ago
Died
June 16th, 2017 8 years ago — 87 years old
Held the office of Chancellor of Germany from 1982 to 1998. Played a key role in the reunification of Germany after the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989. Served as a prominent leader in the European integration process, contributing to the establishment of the Euro. His tenure focused on economic policies that supported the reunification and modernization of the country's infrastructure. The Kohl administration faced challenges such as economic restructuring and handling the political implications of reunification.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 17th
Jay Livingston
Singer-songwriter, 'Que Sera, Sera'
Born
March 28th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
October 17th, 2001 24 years ago — 86 years old
An American singer-songwriter contributed significantly to the music industry during the mid-20th century. Collaborated extensively with Ray Evans, with whom he co-wrote numerous successful songs. Secured an Oscar Award for Best Original Song for 'Que Sera, Sera' in 1956, a song that became popular through its association with the Doris Day film 'The Man Who Knew Too Much.' The partnership yielded many hit songs that remain standards in American music.
Continue ReadingDimitrios Maximos
Greek Prime Minister and banker
Born
July 6th, 1873 152 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1955 70 years ago — 82 years old
A banker and politician served as the 140th Prime Minister of Greece. Held office in 1945 during a pivotal post-war period. Prior to his premiership, involved in important financial roles that shaped banking policies in Greece. Advocated for economic recovery efforts after World War II. Played a significant role in the social and political landscape of Greece during challenging times.
Continue ReadingJoan Hickson
English actress most known for Miss Marple
Born
August 5th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1998 27 years ago — 92 years old
An English actress with a career spanning several decades. Gained prominence for portraying Miss Marple in the television adaptations of Agatha Christie's detective novels during the 1980s and 1990s. Appeared in various stage productions and films, showcasing a wide range of character roles. Received acclaim for performances in both the West End and on screen, establishing a strong presence in British theatre and television. Continued to work into her later years, earning respect and admiration from peers and audiences alike.
Continue ReadingCharlie Townsend
English cricketer and lawyer
Born
November 7th, 1876 149 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1958 67 years ago — 81 years old
Achieved significant recognition in the sport of cricket during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Played for Essex and participated in 10 Test matches for England between 1902 and 1908. Developed a reputation as a formidable batsman and skilled fielder. After retiring from cricket, pursued a career in law, becoming a barrister and contributing to legal practices in London.
Continue ReadingMichael Fitzgerald
Irish republican on hunger strike
Born
1881 145 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1920 105 years ago — 39 years old
Involved in the Irish War of Independence, participated in the struggle for Irish independence from British rule. Joined the Irish Republican Army and was arrested during the 1920 campaign. Engaged in a hunger strike to protest his detention. Died on October 17, 1920, in a British prison, which garnered attention to the Irish republican movement and the treatment of political prisoners.
Continue ReadingS. J. Perelman
American humorist and screenwriter
Born
February 1st, 1904 122 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1979 46 years ago — 75 years old
A prominent humorist and screenwriter, this individual contributed to various publications, including The New Yorker. As a screenwriter, collaborated with the Marx Brothers on films that became classics. The humorist won several accolades for witty essays and short stories during a career spanning several decades.
Continue Reading