George Shearing
Jazz Pianist and Composer, 'Lullaby of Birdland'
An English-American pianist and composer, noted for pioneering the art of jazz piano. Grew up in London, where a visual impairment shaped musical style. Moved to the United States in 1947 and gained recognition for unique arrangements that blended swing, bebop, and classical elements. Formed the George Shearing Quintet, achieving commercial success in the 1950s. Founded the popular standard 'Lullaby of Birdland', which became a jazz classic. Collaborated with numerous prominent jazz musicians and maintained a prolific recording career, spanning several decades until retiring in the mid-2000s.
Composed 'Lullaby of Birdland'
Formed George Shearing Quintet
Achieved commercial success in the 1950s
Other People Born on August 13th
Jarrod Washburn
Baseball player and pitching coach
Born
August 13th, 1974 51 years ago
Played as a Major League Baseball pitcher from 1998 to 2010. Represented teams including the Los Angeles Angels, Seattle Mariners, and Detroit Tigers. Achieved notable success while with the Angels, contributing to their 2002 World Series championship. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, focusing on developing young pitchers.
Continue ReadingJohnny Gaudreau
Ice hockey player, NHL All-Star
Born
August 13th, 1993 32 years ago
Died
August 29th, 2024 1 years ago — 31 years old
An American ice hockey player who plays as a left winger. Gained recognition in the NHL with the Calgary Flames. Contributed significantly to the team's success since being drafted in 2011. Helped the Flames reach the playoffs multiple times and was selected to the NHL All-Star Game in 2017. Known for impressive scoring abilities and playmaking skills, leading to a successful career.
Continue ReadingSalvador Luria
Biologist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
August 13th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
February 6th, 1991 34 years ago — 78 years old
Served as a biologist and physician. Conducted pioneering research in bacteriophage genetics and molecular biology. Contributed significantly to the understanding of the genetic mechanisms in bacteria. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1969 for discoveries related to the genetic regulation of virus synthesis.
Continue ReadingBenjamin Stambouli
French footballer with Montpellier title
Born
August 13th, 1990 35 years ago
A professional footballer, played as a midfielder. Started career at Montpellier HSC, contributing to the team's 2012–13 Ligue 1 championship victory. Transferred to Tottenham Hotspur, showcasing skills in the Premier League. Further played for various clubs, including a significant stint at Marseille. Recognized for tactical awareness and versatility on the field.
Continue ReadingFred Davis
Snooker player, World Champion
Born
August 13th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
April 16th, 1998 27 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent English snooker player, achieved significant success in the sport, winning the World Snooker Championship three times in the 1940s and 1950s. Contributed to the popularization of snooker in England during that era. Also active as a professional player in various competitions throughout his career, leaving a lasting legacy in the sport.
Continue ReadingTaijuan Walker
American baseball pitcher and All-Star
Born
August 13th, 1992 33 years ago
A professional baseball pitcher, this player debuted in Major League Baseball in 2013. With a strong career, he has played for teams including the Seattle Mariners, Arizona Diamondbacks, and Philadelphia Phillies. The athlete was selected as an MLB All-Star in 2021, showcasing impressive performance during the season.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 14th
Johnny Longden
Jockey and horse racing trainer
Born
February 14th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
February 14th, 2003 22 years ago — 96 years old
Born in England, a successful jockey moved to the United States, where a prolific career in horse racing developed. Achieved significant success during the mid-20th century, becoming one of the most celebrated jockeys in the history of the sport. Won the prestigious Kentucky Derby three times, riding the horses Count Turf, Hill Gail, and Lucky Debonair. Transitioned to a training role after retiring from riding, contributing to the development of future racing talents. His dedication to the sport solidified a lasting legacy in horse racing history.
Continue ReadingBruno of Querfurt
German missionary bishop
Died
February 14th, 1009 1016 years ago — None years old
Worked as a missionary bishop in Eastern Europe, particularly in areas such as Prussia and Hungary. Bruno sought to convert and educate the Slavic peoples to Christianity. Established a missionary foundation and became the first bishop of the Saxon mission to the East. His efforts in spreading Christianity were significant during the early medieval period, leading to his recognition as a martyr after his death. He met his end while attempting to convert the pagan peoples, showcasing determination in spreading his faith.
Continue ReadingU Nu
Burmese politician, 1st Prime Minister
Born
May 25th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
February 14th, 1995 30 years ago — 87 years old
Served as the first Prime Minister of Burma from 1948 to 1956 and again from 1957 to 1958. Played a crucial role in the country's transition to independence from British rule. Founded the Anti-Fascist People's Freedom League, promoting democracy and social reform. Championed Buddhism as a guiding philosophy in governance and adopted measures for national economic improvement.
Continue ReadingMick Tucker
Drummer for the band Sweet
Born
July 17th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
February 14th, 2002 23 years ago — 54 years old
A prominent drummer, contributed to the glam rock band Sweet, which rose to fame in the 1970s. The band achieved significant success with hits such as 'Ballroom Blitz' and 'Fox on the Run.' Tucker's drumming style became a defining element of the band's music, characterized by energetic beats and dynamic performances. Sweet's popularity extended beyond the UK, with chart-topping singles in multiple countries, showcasing the band's widespread appeal. Tucker remained with Sweet until its decline in popularity in the late 1970s, and he continued to perform with various incarnations of the band until his death in 2002.
Continue ReadingBernard Ashley
English engineer and businessman commercializing textile design
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
February 14th, 2009 16 years ago — 83 years old
An engineer and businessman from England, co-founded Laura Ashley plc, a textile and furniture company. Established the brand with a distinctive aesthetic, influencing home decor and fashion trends. The company became renowned for its floral prints and pastoral designs, appealing to a wide consumer base. Expanded the brand into international markets, achieving significant commercial success during the 1980s and 1990s.
Continue ReadingAbdur Rab Nishtar
Pakistani politician, 2nd Governor of Punjab
Born
1899 126 years ago
Died
February 14th, 1958 67 years ago — 59 years old
A prominent politician in Pakistan, served as the 2nd Governor of Punjab from 1947 until 1951. Played a significant role in the early years of the country's political landscape after independence. Held various positions within the All-India Muslim League and contributed to the formation of Pakistan. Also served as a member of the national assembly and was an influential leader in the region. Advocated for economic and social development during his tenure and actively participated in discussions that shaped policies in Punjab.
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