Geezer Butler
English bass player and songwriter
A prominent bass player and songwriter, contributed significantly to the heavy metal genre. Co-founded the band Black Sabbath, which is considered one of the pioneers of heavy metal music. Developed a distinctive playing style and lyrical themes that explored existential and social issues. Collaborated with various artists and participated in reunions and tours of Black Sabbath across multiple decades, solidifying the band's legacy in music history.
Co-founded Black Sabbath
Wrote lyrics for iconic songs like 'Iron Man' and 'War Pigs'
Instrumental in the creation of heavy metal music
Other People Born on July 17th
Sten Tolgfors
Swedish politician, Defence Minister
Born
July 17th, 1966 59 years ago
Served as the 30th Minister of Defence of Sweden from 2010 to 2013. Contributed to various defense policy reforms and military operations during tenure. Engaged in discussions regarding Sweden's defense strategy in the context of international cooperation and security.
Continue ReadingWillis Carto
American activist and theorist
Born
July 17th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
October 26th, 2015 10 years ago — 89 years old
An American activist and theorist, contributed to right-wing movements and organized numerous events promoting his ideological views. Founded the Liberty Lobby, a political advocacy group, which sought to influence American politics and public opinion. Established the Institute for Historical Review, a controversial organization focusing on Holocaust revisionism. Promoted various publications and engaged in significant fundraising activities for his initiatives.
Continue ReadingArt Linkletter
Television host of 'People Are Funny'
Born
July 17th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
May 26th, 2010 15 years ago — 97 years old
Born in 1912, a Canadian-American television and radio host gained prominence during the mid-20th century. He hosted the popular television show ‘People Are Funny’, which ran from 1949 to 1961. The show featured various comedic segments and games, engaging viewers with its light-hearted format. Linkletter also hosted ‘Kids Say the Darndest Things’, showcasing children's humorous and candid responses to questions. His career in broadcasting spanned several decades and included numerous guest appearances and special programs. Linkletter published several books and remained a significant figure in the entertainment industry until his later years.
Continue ReadingBerenice Abbott
American photographer with urban landscapes
Born
July 17th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1991 34 years ago — 93 years old
Prominent photographer specialized in capturing urban life and architecture in the early to mid-20th century. Focused on documenting New York City, capturing its dynamic changes with clarity and detail. Transitioned from working under Man Ray in Paris to returning to the United States, where projects emphasized the contrast between old and new cityscapes. Created the series 'Changing New York', exploring the transformations of the city through a comprehensive photographic survey. Later contributed to the broader field of photography with her commitment to innovative techniques and aesthetics.
Continue ReadingLuc Bondy
Theater director and opera producer
Born
July 17th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
November 28th, 2015 10 years ago — 67 years old
A prominent theater and opera director, associated with various prestigious productions across Europe. Directed the acclaimed production of 'The Last Days of Mankind' in 1992. Engaged with numerous major opera houses including the Paris Opera and the Vienna State Opera. Involved in the creation and direction of several international festivals, contributing to the development of contemporary theater.
Continue ReadingWojciech Kilar
Polish composer of film scores
Born
July 17th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
December 29th, 2013 12 years ago — 81 years old
A prominent pianist and composer, significant contributions included creating scores for films and classical music works. Kilar gained international recognition through collaborations with directors such as Roman Polanski and Francis Ford Coppola. The score for 'The Pianist' won widespread acclaim and strengthened his reputation in film music. Additionally, Kilar's concert works, including symphonies and chamber music, showcased his versatility and deep understanding of musical form. His legacy encompasses both his film compositions and concert music, reflecting a career dedicated to artistic pursuits.
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