Eddie Harris
Jazz saxophonist and bandleader
An American saxophonist contributed significantly to jazz music. Active from the 1960s, introduced innovative techniques such as the use of electronic effects on the saxophone. Gained recognition with the album 'Elevator to the Gallows' and the hit single 'Listen Here'. Collaborated with prominent artists and bands, influencing a generation of musicians. Continued performing and recording until the 1990s, showcasing versatility across jazz styles.
Released the influential album 'Listen Here'
Pioneered the use of electronic effects in jazz
Other People Born on October 20th
Mickey Mantle
Baseball player, 3-time MVP
Born
October 20th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
August 13th, 1995 30 years ago — 63 years old
One of the most celebrated baseball players, earned a reputation as a powerful switch-hitter during a career spanning from 1951 to 1968. Played for the New York Yankees and contributed to seven World Series championships. Achieved American League MVP titles in 1956, 1957, and 1962. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1974 after a prolific career that included numerous All-Star selections and a Triple Crown win in 1956.
Continue ReadingRobert Lochner
Soldier and journalist during WWII
Born
October 20th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
2003 22 years ago — 85 years old
Served as a soldier during World War II, participating in various operations. Transitioned to journalism, covering important events and providing insights into military and social issues. Contributed to significant publications, offering perspectives shaped by firsthand experiences in conflict zones. Engaged in reporting that highlighted the complexities of war and its aftermath.
Continue ReadingJoyce Brothers
Psychologist and television personality
Born
October 20th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
May 13th, 2013 12 years ago — 85 years old
An influential psychologist and author, she gained prominence through a successful television career. Brothers became a pioneering figure in the field of psychology and public discourse, using her platform to discuss psychological topics with a broad audience. She achieved recognition for her engaging persona and insightful commentary, making psychology accessible to the general public. Her media presence included a long-running advice column and frequent appearances on television game shows. Brothers authored several books, solidifying her status as an expert on various psychological issues.
Continue ReadingRobert Craft
Conductor and musicologist with Stravinsky
Born
October 20th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 92 years old
Associated with 20th-century classical music, this conductor and musicologist made significant contributions to the performance and interpretation of Igor Stravinsky's works. Collaborated closely with Stravinsky, conducting premiere performances and providing insights into the composer's music and techniques. Held various positions with prestigious orchestras and institutions, and engaged in teaching and lecturing on musicology. Authored books that explored the details of Stravinsky's life and his creative processes.
Continue ReadingTom Dowd
Record producer and engineer known for The Allman Brothers Band
Born
October 20th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
October 27th, 2002 23 years ago — 77 years old
Born in New York City, contributed significantly to the music industry as a record producer and engineer. Involved in the production of numerous iconic albums across various genres. Played a pivotal role in engineering projects for artists such as Eric Clapton and The Allman Brothers Band, particularly noted for the album 'At Fillmore East'. Instrumental in the technical side of recording, bringing innovative techniques to the studio environment. Also recognized for contributions to the development of multi-track recording technology, which greatly influenced the way music was produced.
Continue ReadingHans Warren
Dutch poet and author of 'The Thousand and One Nights'
Born
October 20th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
2001 24 years ago — 80 years old
Born in 1921, this poet and author produced a significant body of literary work that includes poetry, essays, and novels. A prominent figure in Dutch literature, explored themes of sexuality, identity, and the human experience. Published over thirty books and received various literary awards. Contributed to the Dutch literary scene through both creation and criticism.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 5th
Kanō Motonobu
Japanese painter, Kano school founder
Born
August 28th, 1476 549 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1559 466 years ago — 83 years old
A prominent Japanese painter from the 16th century, he played a significant role in establishing the Kano school of painting. Active during the Muromachi period, he developed a style that combined traditional Japanese techniques with influences from Chinese painting. His works often featured landscapes, figures, and a variety of nature themes, embodying the aesthetics of the time. He served as an official painter to the shogunate and contributed to several important decorative projects within the imperial court. His legacy continues through the Kano school, which became a leading force in Japanese painting for centuries.
Continue ReadingLuis Cernuda
Spanish poet, critic, and author
Born
September 21st, 1902 123 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1963 62 years ago — 61 years old
A prominent figure in the Spanish Generation of '27, this poet is recognized for contributions to Spanish literature through various poetic forms and critical essays. His work often explored themes of desire, exile, and identity. Important collections include 'Los placeres prohibidos' and 'La realidad y el deseo'. His literary career spanned several decades, marked by a commitment to blending traditional and avant-garde styles in poetry. Cernuda spent much of his life in exile due to the Spanish Civil War, residing in places such as Mexico and the United States, where his writings continued to evolve and gain recognition.
Continue ReadingAl Capp
American cartoonist of 'Li'l Abner'
Born
September 28th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1979 46 years ago — 70 years old
An author and illustrator from the United States, created the comic strip 'Li'l Abner' which ran from 1934 to 1977. This work satirized American culture and social issues through the adventures of a fictional Appalachian character and his quirky community. Capp's distinctive style and humor garnered widespread attention and became a staple in American comic art. In addition to his famous comic strip, he contributed to various political and social commentary through his artistic work, influencing the landscape of American cartoons.
Continue ReadingSoma Edirisinghe
Sri Lankan businesswoman and philanthropist
Born
1939 86 years ago
Died
November 5th, 2015 10 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent business figure in Sri Lanka, significant contributions made to various industries through leadership roles in several enterprises. Established a foundation focused on charitable work, assisting disadvantaged communities. Engaged in initiatives to improve education and healthcare access, which demonstrated a commitment to societal welfare. Active in multiple organizations aimed at empowering women in business and promoting social change.
Continue ReadingLane Evans
American lawyer and politician
Born
1951 74 years ago
Died
November 5th, 2014 11 years ago — 63 years old
Served as a U.S. Congressman from Illinois from 1993 to 2007. During tenure, focused on veterans' affairs, labor rights, and health care issues. Advocated for policies enhancing the welfare of veterans and worked on various legislation affecting the middle class. Retired from politics due to health issues and contributed to community initiatives in the region.
Continue ReadingGeorge Barris
Car designer and engineering innovator
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
November 5th, 2015 10 years ago — 90 years old
An American car designer and engineer, contributed significantly to automotive culture through iconic custom vehicles. Founded Barris Kustom Industries in the 1940s, which became prominent for creating innovative and extravagant car designs. Gained widespread recognition for designing the Batmobile for the 1960s television series 'Batman'. Worked on various other notable projects including custom cars for celebrities and films. Established a legacy within the automotive community and is remembered for his unique contributions to car aesthetics and customization.
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