Erroll Garner
Jazz pianist and composer, 'Misty'
A prominent jazz pianist and composer, recognized for his unique style and contributions to the jazz genre. Garner's career began in the 1920s, and he gained acclaim for his virtuosic piano skills and distinctive approach to improvisation. His most celebrated composition, 'Misty', became a jazz standard and was featured in numerous recordings by various artists. Garner also performed extensively in clubs and concert halls, captivating audiences with his dynamic performances. The album 'Concert by the Sea', recorded in 1955, remains one of his most significant works, showcasing his talent and artistry in a live setting.
Composed the jazz standard 'Misty'
Released the iconic album 'Concert by the Sea'
Other People Born on June 15th
Bryan Clauson
Race car driver and USAC champion
Born
June 15th, 1989 37 years ago
Died
August 7th, 2016 9 years ago — 27 years old
Accomplished in open-wheel racing, achieved prominence in the United States Auto Club (USAC) series. Claimed the 2013 USAC National Drivers Championship. Competed in various disciplines including midget car racing and sprint car racing, gaining a reputation for versatility and skill on the track. Participated in the Indianapolis 500, showcasing talent in major events. Tragically passed away in a racing accident in 2016.
Continue ReadingHugo Pratt
Author and illustrator of Corto Maltese
Born
June 15th, 1927 99 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1995 30 years ago — 68 years old
An Italian author and illustrator, contributed significantly to the field of comic art. Created the character Corto Maltese, a sailor and adventurer, whose stories blend fiction and history. Worked extensively in Europe and South America, collaborating with various publishers and artists. Developed a distinct style characterized by a combination of detailed line work and a unique narrative technique. Received numerous awards for contributions to the graphic novel genre.
Continue ReadingJohn Fenn
American chemist, Nobel laureate
Born
June 15th, 1917 109 years ago
Died
December 10th, 2010 15 years ago — 93 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of chemistry, particularly in mass spectrometry. Developed electrospray ionization, a method that revolutionized the analysis of biomolecules. Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2002 for advancements made in the development of methods of identification and structure analyses of biological macromolecules. Held academic positions at various institutions throughout a distinguished career.
Continue ReadingDavid Rose
Pianist and conductor of television scores
Born
June 15th, 1910 116 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 1990 35 years ago — 80 years old
A pianist, composer, and conductor, contributed significantly to the television music landscape. Rose composed and conducted the theme music for the long-running television series "Little House on the Prairie" and was associated with numerous other shows during his career. His prolific output included popular songs and scores that reflected the changing music scene of the mid-20th century. In addition to television, he worked with orchestras and produced albums that showcased his talents as a musician and arranger.
Continue ReadingEva Hrdinová
Czech tennis player
Born
June 15th, 1984 42 years ago
Competed professionally in tennis, primarily active in the 2000s. Achieved a career-high singles ranking of World No. 21 in 2004. Participated in all major Grand Slam tournaments, with notable appearances in the French Open and the US Open. Played for the Czech Republic in Fed Cup competitions, contributing to the team's efforts during her tenure. Retired from professional play, transitioning to coaching and tennis promotion.
Continue ReadingHarry Langdon
American actor and director of silent films
Born
June 15th, 1884 142 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1944 81 years ago — 60 years old
Started in vaudeville, progressing to silent films, contributed to the evolution of comedy in cinema. Worked with notable figures such as Frank Capra. Directed and starred in several successful short films. Transitioned to sound films but faced challenges adapting to the new medium. Continued to work in film and television into the later years.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 2nd
George MacDonald Fraser
Scottish journalist and author of Flashman
Born
April 2nd, 1925 101 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 2008 18 years ago — 82 years old
An accomplished journalist and author, contributed significantly to literature through compelling storytelling and rich character development. Gained recognition for creating the 'Flashman' series, which provided a satirical and entertaining take on British history. The series explored the escapades of Harry Flashman, a character derived from Tom Brown's Schooldays. Authored numerous historical novels and non-fiction works, many of which reflect an interest in Scottish history and culture. Collaborated with various publications, demonstrating a range of writing skills across different genres.
Continue ReadingSebastian Haffner
German journalist and author, wrote "Defying Hitler"
Born
December 27th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 1999 27 years ago — 91 years old
A German journalist and author gained prominence with the publication of "Defying Hitler," which provided a personal account of life in Germany during the rise of the Nazi regime. This work, offering critical insights into the political atmosphere of the time, established a significant historical perspective. Haffner also engaged in journalism, contributing to various publications throughout his career. His writing often reflected on the issues of totalitarianism and democracy, rooted deeply in his experiences in Germany. In later years, Haffner continued to write on historical and political subjects, earning respect as a commentator on contemporary events until his death in 1999.
Continue ReadingDixy Lee Ray
American biologist and politician
Born
September 3rd, 1914 111 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 1994 32 years ago — 79 years old
Served as the 17th Governor of Washington from 1977 to 1981. Contributed significantly to the field of marine biology and environmental policy. Held the position of Chair of the Atomic Energy Commission, influencing nuclear energy discussions. Advocated for scientific research and education throughout her career.
Continue ReadingBob Einstein
Actor and comedian, created Super Dave
Born
November 20th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 2019 7 years ago — 76 years old
An American actor and comedian, achieved recognition for creating the comedic character Super Dave Osborne. The character was introduced in the 1970s and became popular through various television appearances and specials. In addition to this iconic role, work included performances on various television shows such as 'Curb Your Enthusiasm' and 'The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour.' A blend of physical comedy and satire characterized performances, contributing to a unique comedic style that engaged audiences across generations. Career achievements encompassed writing and producing comedy content, enhancing the entertainment landscape from the 1960s onward.
Continue ReadingDick Powell
Actor and director of '42nd Street'
Born
November 14th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 1963 63 years ago — 58 years old
Initially starting as a singer, a transition to acting occurred in the early 1930s. Rose to prominence in musicals like '42nd Street' and 'Gold Diggers of 1933'. Later, transitioned to film noir, starring in 'Murder, My Sweet' and 'Pitfall'. Directed several films, including 'The Bad and the Beautiful'. Worked for Warner Bros. throughout the 1930s and 1940s, contributing significantly to the film industry during that era. Established a successful career in both acting and directing until passing in 1963.
Continue ReadingFrances Cress Welsing
Psychiatrist and author of 'The Isis Papers'
Born
March 18th, 1935 91 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 2016 10 years ago — 80 years old
Completed medical training and became a psychiatrist, focusing on the psychological implications of racism and colorism. Authored 'The Isis Papers: The Keys to the Colors', which explored the historical and psychological aspects of racial dynamics. Engaged in public speaking and discussions on race-related issues, contributing to the fields of psychology and sociology. Involved in activism aimed at addressing systemic racism and its effects on mental health.
Continue Reading