Donna Summer

Singer-songwriter with disco hits

Donna Summer - Artists & Creatives born 1948
Born

1948
78 years ago

Died
Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

A prominent singer-songwriter rose to fame in the 1970s as a defining voice of the disco era. Achieved mainstream success with hits like 'Love to Love You Baby', 'Bad Girls', and 'Last Dance'. Received multiple Grammy Awards and achieved commercial success with numerous best-selling albums. Contributed to the transformation of pop music with a unique blend of disco, soul, and rock influences. Continued to perform and release music until death in 2012.

Released the hit 'Last Dance'

Won five Grammy Awards

Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

Other People Who Died on May 17th

Peter Schulz

German lawyer and Mayor of Hamburg
Born
April 25th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2013 12 years ago — 83 years old

A lawyer and politician served as the Mayor of Hamburg during the early 1980s. Engaged in local governance, focused on urban issues and public administration. Advocated for policies aimed at improving the quality of life in Hamburg. Contributed to the development of the city's infrastructure and community programs.

Continue Reading

Go-Fushimi

Emperor of Japan during the Nanboku-chō period
Born
1288 738 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1336 689 years ago — 48 years old

Ascended to the throne in 1287, serving as the 96th emperor of Japan during a tumultuous period marked by imperial conflict. The reign was characterized by the Nanboku-chō period, which involved the division of loyalty between competing imperial lines. Go-Fushimi's era included ongoing power struggles, notably between the Northern and Southern courts. After abdication in 1298, remained an influential figure during the continued efforts to unify the imperial seat. Passed away in 1336.

Continue Reading

Michel-Jean Sedaine

French playwright and librettist
Born
July 4th, 1719 306 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1797 228 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent figure in the French theatre of the 18th century, contributed to the genre of comic opera. Wrote several successful plays and librettos, collaborating with composers like François Andrieux. Works include the comédie lyrique 'Zémire et Azor' and the play 'L'Épreuve'. His writings reflected the artistic movements of the time and showcased his ability to blend humor with social commentary.

Continue Reading

Liu Jianfeng

Chinese warlord during the Five Dynasties
Died
May 17th, 896 1129 years ago — None years old

During the Five Dynasties period, one warlord played a significant role in regional politics and military conflicts. This figure seized power and ruled with authority over the region, establishing a foothold amid the fragmentation of the Tang Dynasty's influence. The reign extended through tactical warfare and alliances with other military leaders. Despite the chaotic political environment, the warlord maintained control over territories and engaged in numerous battles, solidifying a legacy in Chinese history through military prowess and governance.

Continue Reading

Samuel Clarke

English minister and philosopher
Born
October 11th, 1675 350 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1729 296 years ago — 53 years old

A prominent English minister and philosopher, contributed significantly to the fields of theology and philosophy during the early 18th century. Engaged in debates on metaphysics and ethics, favoring rationalism and the use of logic in religious discourse. Published influential works such as 'A Discourse Concerning the Being and Attributes of God' which discussed the nature of divinity. Clarke also played a role in the development of early modern philosophy, particularly in the areas of free will and moral responsibility.

Continue Reading

Toe Blake

Ice hockey player and coach, Montreal Canadiens
Born
August 21st, 1912 113 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1995 30 years ago — 82 years old

Played professional ice hockey and later became a successful coach in the National Hockey League (NHL). As a player, won three Stanley Cups with the Montreal Canadiens. Transitioned to coaching, leading the Canadiens to eight Stanley Cup championships from the bench. Recognized for contributions to the sport and significant wins during a prolific coaching career.

Continue Reading