Gerry Mulligan
Saxophonist and composer, Bop style
An influential American saxophonist and composer, recognized for contributions to jazz music, particularly in the Bop style. Mulligan played baritone saxophone and was a pivotal figure in the development of Cool Jazz. He co-founded the popular quartet that featured pianist Dave Brubeck, with the ensemble gaining acclaim for its innovative sound. Mulligan's arrangements shaped the genre, showcasing both improvisational skill and compositional mastery. He collaborated with numerous prominent jazz musicians and was instrumental in introducing new techniques and ideas to the jazz community. In addition to performing, Mulligan composed many pieces that have become standards in the jazz repertoire before his passing in 1996.
Co-founded the Gerry Mulligan Quartet
Composed influential jazz standards
Pioneered the Cool Jazz movement
Other People Born on April 6th
Enrique Álvarez Félix
Mexican actor in film and television
Born
April 6th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
May 24th, 1996 29 years ago — 62 years old
Born in 1934, a Mexican actor engaged in both film and television. Had a prominent career spanning several decades, becoming a well-recognized figure in the entertainment industry. Key roles included appearances in telenovelas and films, contributing to the popularity of these genres in Mexico. Worked with notable production companies and collaborated with various prominent actors and directors throughout his career.
Continue ReadingGerard Majella
Italian saint and cleric
Born
April 6th, 1726 299 years ago
Died
October 16th, 1755 270 years ago — 29 years old
Born in Italy in 1726, this individual served as a Redemptorist lay brother. Recognized for piety and miracles attributed to his intercession, he devoted life to the spiritual care of the poor and marginalized. His dedication to the community earned him a reputation as a devoted servant of God. After death in 1755, his legacy continued through numerous accounts of miraculous healings, leading to canonization by the Catholic Church in 1904. His feast day is celebrated on October 16.
Continue ReadingRobert Earnshaw
Welsh professional footballer, striker
Born
April 6th, 1981 44 years ago
A professional footballer from Wales, played as a striker and had a notable career across various clubs in the English leagues. Earnshaw began his career with Cardiff City, making significant contributions before transferring to several teams including West Bromwich Albion and Norwich City. Earnshaw also represented the Welsh national team, earning over 50 caps. He became the first player to score a hat-trick in the Premier League for three different clubs. His agility and goal-scoring ability made him a prominent figure in Welsh football during his professional career.
Continue ReadingRandy Weston
Jazz pianist and composer
Born
April 6th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
September 1st, 2018 7 years ago — 92 years old
Born in 1926, a prominent jazz pianist and composer contributed significantly to the jazz genre, integrating African rhythms and themes into music. His career spanned over six decades, creating a unique style that reflected his cultural heritage. Weston studied music in a variety of settings and performed with notable artists across the globe. His compositions often highlighted themes related to African history and identity, bringing cultural awareness through music. Weston's influential works include various albums that resonate with intricate rhythms and melodies, showcasing a blend of jazz with traditional African music elements.
Continue ReadingLeonora Carrington
Painter and author of surreal art
Born
April 6th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 94 years old
Born in 1917, a notable English-Mexican painter and author, contributed significantly to the surrealist movement. Engaged with visions and mythology, produced paintings that depicted whimsical and fantastical worlds. Gained recognition through works such as 'The Lovers' and 'The House Opposite'. Later in life, settled in Mexico, becoming part of the local artistic community and influencing generations of artists.
Continue ReadingPhil Austin
American comedian and actor
Born
April 6th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
June 18th, 2015 10 years ago — 74 years old
A comedian, actor, and screenwriter, this individual was part of the groundbreaking comedy group The Firesign Theatre. The group gained prominence in the late 1960s and 1970s through their innovative radio plays and albums that combined absurdist humor with social commentary. The work often parodied popular culture and media, contributing significantly to American comedy. The person also made appearances in various television shows and films throughout their career, showcasing talents beyond the stage. Contributions to spoken word albums and live performances helped shape the landscape of surreal comedy in the United States.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 20th
Sibusiso Moyo
Zimbabwean politician and army general
Born
1960 65 years ago
Died
January 20th, 2021 4 years ago — 61 years old
Served as a major general in the Zimbabwe National Army. Led the army's operations during the 2017 coup that resulted in the ousting of long-time President Robert Mugabe. After the coup, appointed as Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in the government of President Emmerson Mnangagwa. Played a significant role in shaping Zimbabwe's foreign relations during tenure. Passed away on January 20, 2021.
Continue ReadingJohnny Weissmuller
Swimmer and Tarzan movie star
Born
June 2nd, 1904 121 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1984 41 years ago — 79 years old
Achieved prominence as a competitive swimmer, winning five Olympic gold medals in the 1920s. Set numerous world records in swimming, many of which stood for years. Transitioned to a successful acting career, becoming the first actor to portray Tarzan in film with the 1932 movie 'Tarzan the Ape Man.' Continued to star in multiple sequels, cementing a legacy in American cinema. Weissmuller's portrayal became iconic, and he contributed to popularizing the character of Tarzan in popular culture.
Continue ReadingDora Stratou
Greek dancer and choreographer
Born
1903 122 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1988 37 years ago — 85 years old
Stratou founded the Dora Stratou Theatre in Athens, dedicated to traditional Greek dance. This venue has served as a platform for showcasing Greek folklore and dance culture. As a choreographer, she revitalized traditional dance forms and contributed significantly to their preservation. Stratou's work emphasized the importance of cultural heritage in the arts, making dance accessible to broader audiences through performances and educational initiatives.
Continue ReadingMykolas Burokevičius
Lithuanian politician, signatory of independence
Born
1927 98 years ago
Died
January 20th, 2016 9 years ago — 89 years old
A prominent Lithuanian carpenter and politician, played a significant role in the country's move towards independence from the Soviet Union. Actively participated in the Sąjūdis movement, which rallied support for national sovereignty in the late 1980s. Served as a member of the Supreme Council of Lithuania during the critical period of the restoration of independence. Contributed to the drafting of the State of the Republic of Lithuania Act in 1990, which declared Lithuania an independent nation.
Continue ReadingT. Nadaraja
Sri Lankan lawyer and academic
Born
December 27th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
January 20th, 2004 21 years ago — 86 years old
Practiced law and contributed to academia in Sri Lanka. Served in various capacities within the legal community and committed to advancing legal education. Engaged in scholarly work that addressed legal issues pertinent to Sri Lanka, influencing both practitioners and students. Involved in initiatives aimed at improving the legal system and fostering a better understanding of law among the populace.
Continue ReadingMira Furlan
Croatian actress in Babylon 5
Born
September 7th, 1955 70 years ago
Died
January 20th, 2021 4 years ago — 65 years old
Born in 1955 in Zagreb, this actress gained recognition for roles in television and film. Most notably starred as Delenn in the science fiction series 'Babylon 5', which aired from 1994 to 1998. Furlan also appeared in the series 'Lost', contributing to its popularity. Besides acting, she had a career as a singer. Furlan's work spanned several decades and included performances in both Croatian and international productions. She remained active until her passing in January 2021.
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