Hank Ballard
American singer-songwriter, 'The Twist'
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
Sam Cassell
Basketball player, 2-time NBA Champion
Born
November 18th, 1969 56 years ago
A professional basketball player and coach, played as a point guard during an 18-year NBA career. Played for the Houston Rockets, winning championships in 1994 and 1995. Also played for the Phoenix Suns, Dallas Mavericks, and Los Angeles Clippers, among other teams. Transitioned to coaching, serving as an assistant coach in the NBA after retirement as a player.
Continue ReadingJustin Raimondo
Journalist and author of anti-war works
Born
November 18th, 1951 74 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 68 years old
A prominent journalist and author focused on anti-war commentary and libertarian perspectives. Contributed a significant body of work to the field of political journalism through articles and books. Served as the editorial director of Antiwar.com, a website dedicated to advocating for non-interventionist foreign policies. Critiqued U.S. foreign policy and military interventions, particularly during the Iraq War and the War on Terror. Engaged in public speaking and debates on civil liberties and government overreach.
Continue ReadingMike Epps
American actor and stand-up comedian
Born
November 18th, 1970 55 years ago
Born in 1970, this individual gained prominence through both stand-up comedy and acting. The career began in the mid-1990s with appearances on shows like 'Def Comedy Jam.' The breakout role in the film 'Next Friday' established a foundation for further success. Continued to gain recognition for performances in the 'Barbershop' series and the comedy special 'Mike Epps: Under Rated & Never Faded.' The career also expanded into producing and directing projects that resonated with audiences. This individual has built a reputation in the entertainment industry through both film and stand-up comedy.
Continue ReadingRudy Sarzo
Rock bass player with Ozzy Osbourne
Born
November 18th, 1950 75 years ago
A Cuban-American rock bass player gained prominence in the 1980s. Played with the heavy metal band Quiet Riot, contributing to the success of the album 'Metal Health,' which was the first metal album to reach number one on the Billboard 200. Joined Ozzy Osbourne's band, performing on the album 'Diary of a Madman' and the subsequent tour. Later collaborated with several other notable artists and bands, including Whitesnake and Dio, and continued to perform and record music, establishing a significant presence in the rock music scene.
Continue ReadingAhmed Helmy
Egyptian actor and comedian
Born
November 18th, 1969 56 years ago
Born in Egypt, an acclaimed actor and comedian rose to prominence in the early 2000s. Gained recognition through roles in various successful films and television shows. These productions often blended comedy with social commentary, revealing cultural nuances in Egyptian society. Achieved widespread popularity through performances in landmark films and series, cementing a legacy in Egyptian cinema. Established a loyal fan base and won multiple awards for contributions to the film industry.
Continue ReadingPierre Bayle
French philosopher and author of Dictionnaire
Born
November 18th, 1647 378 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1706 318 years ago — 59 years old
Born in 1647, a French philosopher and author contributed significantly to the field of philosophy through critical essays and works on skepticism. The publication of 'Dictionnaire historique et critique' in 1697 became a seminal text in the realms of philosophy and literature, influencing Enlightenment thinkers and sparking debates on religion, tolerance, and reason. Bayle challenged dogmatic beliefs and promoted rational inquiry, which laid foundational ideas for modern secular thought. His writings often addressed the relationship between faith and reason, advocating for religious tolerance and understanding amidst a tumultuous religious landscape in Europe.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 2nd
Mercedes McCambridge
Academy Award-winning actress
Born
March 16th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
March 2nd, 2004 21 years ago — 87 years old
An accomplished actress active from the 1940s to 2000, contributions spanned radio, theater, and film. Received an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for the role in the 1949 film 'Giant'. Voiced the character in the iconic film 'The Exorcist', which became a significant part of horror film history. In addition to acting, worked as a writer and was known for her voice talent in various radio dramas.
Continue ReadingRyhor Baradulin
Belarusian poet and essayist
Born
February 24th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
March 2nd, 2014 11 years ago — 79 years old
Born in 1935, this poet, essayist, and translator contributed significantly to Belarusian literature. His work explored themes of national identity, culture, and the human experience. Active in the literary scene, he participated in various literary movements and advocated for the Belarusian language and culture. Throughout his career, he produced a considerable body of poetic works and essays that highlighted the Belarusian landscape and its people. His writings reflect deep connections to the socio-political context of Belarus, particularly during the challenging periods of the 20th century.
Continue ReadingLéo-Ernest Ouimet
Canadian film director and producer
Born
March 16th, 1877 148 years ago
Died
March 2nd, 1972 53 years ago — 94 years old
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 ReadingNorman St John-Stevas
English politician and academic leader
Born
May 18th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
March 2nd, 2012 13 years ago — 82 years old
An English academic and politician served as Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster from 1970 to 1974. St John-Stevas was a member of the Conservative Party and represented the Chelmsford constituency in the House of Commons from 1950 to 1974. In addition to his political career, held various academic roles, including being a professor. St John-Stevas was instrumental in promoting arts and education during his tenure in government and was involved in legislative reforms that affected the arts sector.
Continue ReadingFidél Pálffy
Hungarian Minister of Agriculture
Born
May 6th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
March 2nd, 1946 79 years ago — 50 years old
Served as Minister of Agriculture in Hungary, focusing on agricultural reforms and policies. Contributed to the development of rural infrastructure and improvements in agricultural productivity during tenure. Engaged in political activities that aimed to modernize Hungary's agricultural sector.
Continue ReadingIda Maclean
British biochemist and pioneer
Born
1877 148 years ago
Died
March 2nd, 1944 81 years ago — 67 years old
A biochemist contributed significantly to the field of biochemistry. Became the first woman admitted to the London Chemical Society. Worked on studies related to the biochemical processes in living organisms, focusing on the role of enzymes and metabolism. Published research that advanced understanding in the discipline, becoming an influential figure in the scientific community during her era.
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