Hank Ballard
American singer-songwriter, 'The Twist'
Born
November 18th, 1927
97 years ago
Died
March 2nd, 2003
22 years ago — 75 years old
Category
Artists & Creatives
Country
United States
Links & References
An American singer-songwriter, significant contributions came to the rhythm and blues genre in the 1950s and 1960s. Ballard's music was characterized by its engaging melodies and danceable rhythms. The hit song 'The Twist' became a cultural phenomenon, popularizing the dance craze of the same name and influencing the music scene of that era. Ballard's work laid the foundation for future artists and the evolution of various musical styles, particularly in the rock and roll genre.
Wrote and performed 'The Twist'
Influenced the rhythm and blues genre
Other People Born on November 18th
Jon Lech Johansen
Born in Norway, this computer programmer and engineer developed DeCSS, a software tool that allows users to decrypt DVDs. The creation of DeCSS sparked significant debate over copyright laws and digital rights. His work contributed to ongoing discussions about the balance between intellectual property rights and digital freedom.
Continue ReadingC. J. Wilson
A professional baseball player specialized as a pitcher. Played for the Texas Rangers, contributing to the team's success in the American League. Achieved a significant milestone by participating in two consecutive World Series in 2010 and 2011. Later played for the Los Angeles Angels, continuing a successful career in Major League Baseball. Notable for his ability to perform in high-pressure situations.
Continue ReadingKarl Schranz
An alpine ski racer achieved significant success in the 1960s. Specialized in downhill and slalom events. Competed in multiple World Cup seasons, securing a reputation as one of the top racers of the time. Won the overall World Cup title in 1966. Represented Austria in the Winter Olympics, competing in 1964 and 1968. Captured gold medals at the World Championships, contributing to a rich legacy in the sport.
Continue ReadingPedro Infante
Born in 1917, an influential figure in Mexican cinema and music, achieved prominence in the Golden Age of Mexican cinema. Became a leading man with memorable performances in films such as "Nosotros los Pobres" and "La Mujer que Sabía Demasiado". Gained popularity for a charismatic singing career that included iconic ranchera songs. His work depicted themes of love, struggle, and social issues in a relatable manner, contributing to his enduring legacy in Mexican culture. Died in 1957 in a plane crash, leaving a lasting impact on future generations of artists.
Continue ReadingRobert Hugh Benson
An English Catholic priest and novelist. Ordained in 1903, served as a priest in the Church of England before converting to Roman Catholicism. Authored several works of fiction, with a focus on religious themes, including 'Lord of the World', a dystopian novel that gained prominence in the early 20th century. Contributed to the literary landscape of his time by integrating theological concepts with engaging storytelling.
Continue ReadingCarl Vinson
Served as a member of the United States House of Representatives for over 50 years, being one of the longest-serving members in U.S. history. Played a significant role in the development of the U.S. Navy during World War II, advocating for naval expansion and modernization. Held the position of chairman of the House Armed Services Committee multiple times, influencing defense policy and funding. Contributed to legislation related to veterans and defense appropriations.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 2nd
Dean Hess
Served as a colonel in the United States Air Force and was a prominent military chaplain. Played a significant role during the Korean War as a group chaplain, providing support to troops in combat. Worked extensively in pastoral care and leadership within the military and civilian communities. Engaged in multiple humanitarian efforts throughout his life.
Continue ReadingLéo-Ernest Ouimet
A significant figure in Canadian cinema, contributed to the development of early film culture. Directed and produced several films in the 1910s and 1920s, helping to shape the foundation of Canadian filmmaking. Founded Ouimetoscope, the first film studio in Canada, which produced a variety of silent films. Played a crucial role in introducing cinema in Quebec and promoting French-language films.
Continue ReadingHeinrich Wilhelm Matthias Olbers
Born in 1758 in Germany, a physician and astronomer contributed significantly to the understanding of comets and celestial bodies. Olbers is best recognized for the discovery of several comets, including the 1815 discovery of the comet that bears his name, Olbers' Comet. He formulated Olbers' Paradox, which questions why the night sky is dark if the universe is infinite and filled with stars. This paradox has played an important role in cosmological discussions and theories regarding the universe's structure. Olbers' work also includes contributions to the fields of celestial mechanics and the development of a star catalog. He passed away in 1840.
Continue ReadingUlric Dahlgren
Served as a colonel in the Union Army during the American Civil War. Led troops in various significant campaigns and was involved in operations in Virginia and Pennsylvania. Died in combat during a cavalry raid. His strategies and boldness were notable during key battles, including the Battle of Gettysburg. Posthumously remembered for his contributions and leadership.
Continue ReadingVan T. Barfoot
A colonel in the United States Army, served during World War II and the Korean War. Awarded the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism in the Italian Campaign in 1944. His actions during the Battle of Anzio involved single-handedly destroying multiple enemy machine gun positions, which significantly contributed to the success of his unit's mission. Additionally, held various leadership roles within the military throughout a dedicated career. After retirement, lived in Virginia and became known for advocating veteran's issues.
Continue ReadingShabnam Shakeel
A prominent figure in Urdu poetry, contributions to literature included numerous volumes of poetry and influential writing that captured the essence of contemporary life in Pakistan. Engaged in various literary movements, her work reflected the social and cultural dynamics of her time. Shakeel's poetry resonated with readers, addressing themes of love, loss, and identity. She also wrote essays and articles that enriched the Urdu literary landscape.
Continue Reading