Doug Fieger
Singer-songwriter of The Knack
A singer-songwriter and guitarist, gained prominence as the lead vocalist of the rock band The Knack. Achieved commercial success with the release of the hit single 'My Sharona' in 1979, which topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The album 'Get the Knack' became a significant success, selling over three million copies in the United States. The Knack played a crucial role in the power pop genre during the late 1970s and early 1980s, influencing many artists that followed. Continued to write and perform music throughout the decades, contributing to various projects until passing in 2010.
Led The Knack during the late 1970s
Released the hit 'My Sharona'
Achieved multi-platinum sales with 'Get the Knack'
Other People Born on August 20th
Phil Lynott
Irish singer-songwriter and musician
Born
August 20th, 1949 76 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1986 39 years ago — 36 years old
A prominent Irish musician, prominent as the lead vocalist and bassist of the rock band Thin Lizzy. Gained recognition for blending rock, folk, and blues influences. Wrote hits such as 'The Boys Are Back in Town' and 'Jailbreak,' establishing a reputation for storytelling in lyrics. Also pursued a solo career with albums like 'Solo in Soho.' Contributed to the music scene through production work and remained influential in rock music after death.
Continue ReadingSky Saxon
Singer-songwriter and bassist of The Seeds
Born
August 20th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
June 25th, 2009 16 years ago — 71 years old
A prominent figure in the 1960s garage rock scene, contributed to the genre as the lead singer and bassist of the band The Seeds. The group achieved significant success with the hit single 'Pushin' Too Hard,' which reached the Billboard Hot 100. The band's psychedelic sound and distinctive style influenced many musicians and contributed to the development of punk rock. In addition to recording albums, remained active in the music scene for decades, performing at various venues and festivals. His work remains relevant in discussions of 1960s rock music.
Continue ReadingMufaddal Saifuddin
53rd Da'i al-Mutlaq of Fatimid Caliphate
Born
August 20th, 1946 79 years ago
Assumed leadership as the 53rd Da'i al-Mutlaq of the Dawoodi Bohra community in 2014. Focused on the spiritual and religious guidance of followers, emphasizing education, community service, and moral values. Oversaw the construction of various educational and community centers worldwide. Engaged in interfaith dialogue and social initiatives to promote harmony within and outside the community.
Continue ReadingGus Macdonald
Scottish academic and politician
Born
August 20th, 1940 85 years ago
An academic and politician served as Minister for the Cabinet Office in the UK government. Contributed to public service and policy development through various governmental roles, focusing on civil service reform and governance improvement. Engaged in academic endeavors with a background in political science, influencing discussions on public administration and governmental structure.
Continue ReadingJim Reeves
American country music singer
Born
August 20th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
July 31st, 1964 61 years ago — 40 years old
A prominent figure in country music, this singer-songwriter became widely recognized for his smooth voice and romantic ballads during the 1950s and 1960s. Popular hits include 'Four Walls,' 'He’ll Have to Go,' and 'Distant Drums.' These songs topped charts and became staples in the country music genre. His style blended traditional country with elements of pop and jazz, appealing to a broad audience. The singer's career was marked by significant commercial success and a strong fan base, further solidified by numerous posthumous releases that featured his work. The legacy of this artist continues to influence country music.
Continue ReadingEliel Saarinen
Architect, co-designer of National Museum
Born
August 20th, 1873 152 years ago
Died
July 1st, 1950 75 years ago — 76 years old
An architect with Finnish-American roots, significant contributions included the design of the National Museum of Finland in Helsinki. Saarinen was a pioneer of modern architecture and town planning. His work extended to various notable projects, influencing architecture both in Finland and the United States. Notably, he served as the principal architect for the design of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, showcasing a commitment to merging practicality with artistic vision. Throughout his career, Saarinen's work emphasized the integration of buildings with their environments, leaving a lasting legacy in the field of architecture.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 14th
Philip Levine
Poet and Pulitzer Prize winner
Born
January 10th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
February 14th, 2015 10 years ago — 87 years old
An American poet and academic, contributions to contemporary literature spanned several decades. Focused on themes of working-class life and industry, poetry collections included 'What Work Is,' which won the Pulitzer Prize in 1995. Served as a professor at several universities, including California State University. Work reflected the challenges and intricacies of American labor and identity.
Continue ReadingDora Gerson
German actress and singer
Born
March 23rd, 1899 126 years ago
Died
February 14th, 1943 82 years ago — 43 years old
Gerson gained prominence as an actress and singer in pre-World War II Germany. She became popular in the 1920s and 1930s, performing in numerous films and theatrical productions. Gerson's works often showcased her singing talents alongside her acting skills. Her career came to an abrupt halt due to the rise of the Nazi regime, which led to her persecution. Gerson died in a concentration camp during the Holocaust.
Continue ReadingLouie Bellson
Drummer and composer for jazz orchestras
Born
July 6th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
February 14th, 2009 16 years ago — 84 years old
Born in 1924, a prominent American drummer and composer, recognized as a leading figure in jazz music. Played with legendary musicians including Duke Ellington and Benny Goodman. Contributed significantly to jazz music through innovative drumming techniques and compositions. Bellson was also an educator, teaching drumming methods and providing insights into jazz performance. His work included collaborations with numerous artists and ensembles, showcasing a unique style that influenced generations of musicians.
Continue ReadingP. G. Wodehouse
English novelist and playwright
Born
October 15th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
February 14th, 1975 50 years ago — 93 years old
A prominent English writer, notable for contributions to comic literature, particularly through the character Bertie Wooster and his valet Jeeves. Wodehouse wrote numerous novels and short stories, characterized by their intricate plots and humorous style. He also had a successful career in plays, musicals, and screenplays. His works are celebrated for their wit and lightheartedness, often reflecting the English upper class and their eccentricities.
Continue ReadingChristopher Lasch
Historian and social critic
Born
June 1st, 1932 93 years ago
Died
February 14th, 1994 31 years ago — 61 years old
A prominent historian and cultural critic, this individual focused on American culture and society. The works engage with themes such as modernity, the individual, and the dynamics of social change. The critique of consumer culture and the exploration of the decline of social criticism during the late 20th century are central to the works. The book 'The Culture of Narcissism' published in 1979 stands out as a significant contribution, analyzing the shift in American values. Through various essays and books, this person examined the relationships between society, history, and the self, providing insights into contemporary social conditions.
Continue ReadingCarlos Menem
Argentine President and statesman
Born
July 2nd, 1930 95 years ago
Died
February 14th, 2021 4 years ago — 90 years old
Served as the President of Argentina from 1989 to 1999. Focused on economic reforms and integrating Argentina into the global economy. Implemented privatization policies that changed many state-owned industries. Prior to his presidency, held the position of governor of La Rioja Province. Played a key role in the political maneuverings during a period marked by economic instability in Argentina. His government faced criticism over corruption allegations and human rights issues, especially during the country's military dictatorship era. After leaving office, remained a significant figure in Argentine politics until his passing.
Continue Reading