Elvin Jones
Jazz drummer and bandleader
An influential jazz drummer, noted for innovative techniques and powerful rhythms. Played with the John Coltrane Quartet from 1960 to 1965, contributing to albums such as "A Love Supreme" and "Giant Steps." Led his own ensembles and collaborated with numerous prominent jazz artists throughout a celebrated career. His style combined complex polyrhythms with a deep sense of swing, shaping modern jazz drumming.
Played in the John Coltrane Quartet
Contributed to 'A Love Supreme'
Led own bands in the jazz genre
Other People Born on September 9th
Sol LeWitt
American conceptual artist and sculptor
Born
September 9th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
April 8th, 2007 19 years ago — 78 years old
An influential figure in the conceptual art movement, this artist emphasized the idea behind art over the final product. Best known for his wall drawings and geometric sculptures, this individual explored the relationship between art and mathematics. Work included large-scale installations and artworks created in collaboration with various assistant artists. His approach advocated for the notion that the concept of a work is as important as its execution.
Continue ReadingYusuf al-Qaradawi
Islamic theologian and author
Born
September 9th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
2022 4 years ago — 96 years old
An influential Islamic theologian and author, this individual contributed significantly to contemporary Islamic thought. Born in Egypt, focused on issues of reform and modernization within Islam. Played a prominent role in the establishment of the International Union of Muslim Scholars. Engaged in discussing a wide variety of religious, political, and social topics through various media outlets. Published numerous books on Islamic jurisprudence and has been an advocate for the application of Sharia in modern contexts.
Continue ReadingFreddy Weller
Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
September 9th, 1947 78 years ago
A singer-songwriter and guitarist, contributed significantly to country and pop music. Gained recognition in the late 1960s and 1970s, blending rock and country influences. Achieved success both as a solo artist and through collaborations. Worked extensively with the band The Billy Joe Royal Show, and later, as a solo act, released a string of hits that showcased a blend of styles. Recorded several albums, with a notable shift towards country music in the 1970s.
Continue ReadingIda Mae Martinez
American wrestler and champion
Born
September 9th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
2010 16 years ago — 79 years old
A pioneering American wrestler, competed in the early days of women's wrestling. Achieved significant recognition as a champion in the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA). Participated in various wrestling federations, building a legacy in a male-dominated sport. Helped to elevate the visibility of women's wrestling, paving the way for future generations.
Continue ReadingJoe Theismann
American football quarterback, Super Bowl champion
Born
September 9th, 1949 76 years ago
A quarterback played in the National Football League (NFL) for the Washington Redskins from 1974 to 1985. Led the team to victory in Super Bowl XVII in 1983, earning the game’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) award. Secured the NFL Most Valuable Player award in 1983 and was selected to two Pro Bowls. After retiring from professional football, transitioned to a career in broadcasting, serving as a sportscaster and analyst for various networks, including ESPN. Theismann wrote sports-related books and participated in charitable efforts.
Continue ReadingCarm Lino Spiteri
Maltese architect and politician
Born
September 9th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
February 9th, 2008 18 years ago — 75 years old
An architect and politician from Malta, contributed significantly to the development of urban planning and architecture in the region. Served as a member of the Maltese Parliament and held key positions within various governmental bodies. Worked on numerous projects that shaped the architectural landscape of Malta, focusing on modern design and sustainability. Advocated for arts and culture, promoting local architectural heritage and improvements in public spaces.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 18th
Dolla
American rapper known for 'Who the F**k Is That?'
Born
1987 39 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2009 17 years ago — 22 years old
Born in the United States, this rapper gained recognition for his single 'Who the F**k Is That?' in the late 2000s. The song showcased a unique style that contributed to the rising popularity of hip-hop during that era. Collaborations with artists like T-Pain and Akon also marked a significant part of his career. Despite a promising start, the life of this rapper ended tragically in 2009 when he was killed in a shooting in Los Angeles.
Continue ReadingErnie Davis
American football player, Heisman Trophy winner
Born
December 14th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1963 63 years ago — 23 years old
Played college football at Syracuse University, leading the team to a national championship in 1959. Became the first African American to win the Heisman Trophy in 1961. Selected first overall in the 1962 NFL Draft by the Washington Redskins but was traded to the Cleveland Browns. Suffered from leukemia, which shortened professional career.
Continue ReadingHalldór Ásgrímsson
Icelandic politician and Prime Minister
Born
September 8th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2015 11 years ago — 67 years old
Served as the 22nd Prime Minister of Iceland from 2004 to 2006. Led the Progressive Party and was a significant figure in Icelandic politics. Held various ministerial positions including Minister of Fisheries and Minister of Transport and Communications. Focused on economic development and international relations during tenure. Contributed to shaping Iceland's policy on fisheries and the economy.
Continue ReadingHans-Peter Dürr
Physicist and academic in quantum physics
Born
1929 97 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2014 12 years ago — 85 years old
Contributions to quantum physics were significant, impacting theoretical foundations. Served as Director at the Max Planck Institute for Physics in Munich, influencing the field through research and education. Advocated for the peaceful use of science, engaging in dialogues about the ethical implications of scientific advancements. Participated in various public talks and writings, emphasizing the responsibility of scientists in society.
Continue ReadingSteve Forrest
American drummer, played for Placebo
Born
September 25th, 1986 39 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2013 13 years ago — 26 years old
A drummer, prominently associated with the band Placebo since 2006. Contributed to the band's sound through various albums and tours. Prior to joining Placebo, worked with other bands and gained experience in the music industry. Active in live performances and studio recordings, showcasing a blend of alternative rock styles.
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.
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