Grover Washington Jr.
Saxophonist known for 'Just the Two of Us'
Born
Died
Category
Artists & Creatives
Country
United States
Links & References
A prominent jazz and R&B saxophonist and composer contributed significantly to the smooth jazz genre. Debuted with the album 'Inner City Blues' in 1971, which showcased a blend of jazz, soul, and funk. Collaborated with various artists including Bill Withers, resulting in the hit single 'Just the Two of Us'. Recognized for his innovative playing style and ability to bridge different musical genres, created a distinctive sound that influenced many musicians in the smooth jazz arena. Released several successful albums throughout the 1970s and 1980s, solidifying his reputation in the music industry. Received multiple awards and accolades for contributions to music, and his work remains a significant part of the jazz and R&B landscape.
Released the classic album 'Winelight'
Collaborated with Bill Withers on 'Just the Two of Us'
Pioneered the smooth jazz genre
Other People Born on December 12th
Samuel Hood
Admiral and politician, 1st Viscount Hood
Born
December 12th, 1724 301 years ago
Died
January 27th, 1816 210 years ago — 91 years old
Served in several notable naval battles during the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. Earned recognition for leadership in the Battle of the Nile. Held various political offices, including a position in the House of Lords. Contributed to the Royal Navy's strategic successes against France and established a reputation for naval prowess.
Continue ReadingMichael Möllenbeck
German discus thrower and champion
Born
December 12th, 1969 56 years ago
A discus thrower who competed at an elite level, achieving significant success in the sport. Competed in the 1992 Summer Olympics held in Barcelona. Secured a gold medal at the 1994 European Championships in Helsinki, showcasing skill and strength in the event. Retired from competitive athletics after a successful career, contributing to the sport's heritage in Germany.
Continue ReadingRobert Noyce
Co-founder of Intel Corporation
Born
December 12th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 1990 35 years ago — 62 years old
An inventor and businessman, contributed to the development of the integrated circuit, which played a pivotal role in the microelectronics revolution. Co-founded Intel Corporation in 1968, which became a leading manufacturer of semiconductor chips. Noyce's innovations in silicon-based technology laid the groundwork for modern computing and contributed to the rapid growth of the personal computer industry. Noyce's work was acknowledged with various awards, including the National Medal of Technology.
Continue ReadingRussell Batiste Jr.
Funk and R&B drummer with Soulive
Born
December 12th, 1965 60 years ago
Died
2023 3 years ago — 58 years old
A drummer renowned for contributions to the funk and R&B genres. Began professional career in the 1990s, performing with various artists and bands. Gained prominence as a member of the band Soulive, which fused jazz, funk, and soul elements, influencing the instrumental music scene. Worked with numerous celebrated musicians and bands, contributing to their recordings and live performances.
Continue ReadingEdvard Munch
Norwegian painter, 'The Scream' creator
Born
December 12th, 1863 162 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1944 82 years ago — 80 years old
A prominent figure in the Expressionist movement, the painter and illustrator focused on emotional experiences rather than physical reality. His most famous work, 'The Scream', exemplifies the exploration of anxiety and existential dread. This piece has become one of the most iconic images in the history of art. Munch's work often delved into themes of love, anxiety, and death, deeply influenced by his personal experiences and tragedies. He produced a variety of paintings, prints, and other artworks throughout his career, showcasing a distinct style characterized by bold colors and dynamic forms.
Continue ReadingEd Koch
American politician and New York City Mayor
Born
December 12th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
February 1st, 2013 13 years ago — 88 years old
Served as the 105th Mayor of New York City from 1978 to 1989. Led the city during a period of economic hardship and implemented policies aimed at revitalizing the city. Advocated for fiscal responsibility and urban development. Known for the catchphrase 'How am I doing?', which became synonymous with his leadership style and public persona. After leaving office, continued to be active in public life, offering commentary on New York City politics and broader issues.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 17th
William Thomson
Physicist and engineer, contributed to thermodynamics
Born
June 26th, 1824 201 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1907 118 years ago — 83 years old
Born in 1824, this physicist and engineer significantly advanced the field of thermodynamics and contributed to the development of the absolute temperature scale, known as the Kelvin scale. He held the title of 1st Baron Kelvin. This figure's work encompassed electromagnetism and the formulation of the laws of thermodynamics. He served as a professor at the University of Glasgow and was involved in several engineering projects, including the laying of the Atlantic telegraph cable.
Continue ReadingPope Gregory VIII
Pope during the Third Crusade
Born
1100 926 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1187 838 years ago — 87 years old
Elected as pope in 1187, this religious leader played a significant role during the Third Crusade. His papacy was marked by efforts to rally support for Christian forces against Muslim armies. The pontiff issued the papal bull 'Audita Tremendi' to encourage European monarchs to unite for the campaign to reclaim Jerusalem following its capture by Saladin. His tenure as pope lasted only a few months until his death later that year.
Continue ReadingFrancis Beaufort
Irish hydrographer and Royal Navy officer
Born
May 27th, 1774 251 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1857 168 years ago — 83 years old
Contributed significantly to maritime navigation and meteorology. Developed the Beaufort Scale, which classifies wind strength based on observed sea conditions. Served in the Royal Navy and undertook various surveys, enhancing understanding of oceanography. His work laid the foundation for modern meteorological practices and navigational standards.
Continue ReadingGünther Anders
Philosopher and journalist, authored 'The Outdatedness of Human Beings'
Born
July 12th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1992 33 years ago — 90 years old
Born in Germany, a philosopher and journalist primarily engaged in critical thought regarding technology and society. Explored themes of existentialism, humanism, and the impact of modernity on human existence. Wrote extensively, with significant works including 'The Outdatedness of Human Beings', which criticized the implications of technological advancement on humanity. His writings examined the ethical and existential dilemmas posed by nuclear weapons and the rise of mass media, contributing to the discourse on modernity's challenges. In addition to philosophical inquiry, the involvement in various political and social movements marked his career, emphasizing issues of human rights and freedom.
Continue ReadingLarry Sherry
Baseball player and coach, World Series champion
Born
July 25th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2006 19 years ago — 71 years old
A professional baseball player and coach, played as a relief pitcher in Major League Baseball. Made significant contributions to the Los Angeles Dodgers from 1959 to 1962. Played a pivotal role in the Dodgers' 1963 World Series victory, earning the World Series Most Valuable Player award. Transitioned into coaching after retirement, applying experience and knowledge of the game to help develop players.
Continue ReadingElizabeth Garrett Anderson
Pioneering English physician and politician
Born
June 9th, 1836 189 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1917 108 years ago — 81 years old
First woman to qualify as a physician in England. Established the New Hospital for Women in London, which provided medical care accessible to women and children. Actively participated in the women's suffrage movement and worked towards the improvement of women's rights in medicine and society. Contributed significantly to the establishment of the London School of Medicine for Women.
Continue Reading