Hank Jones

American jazz pianist and composer

Hank Jones - American jazz pianist and composer
Born

July 31st, 1918
107 years ago

Died

May 16th, 2010
15 years ago — 91 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

A prominent jazz pianist and composer, contributed significantly to the jazz genre. Worked as a bandleader and collaborated with various notable musicians throughout a long career in music. Recorded extensively and performed with prominent artists including Ella Fitzgerald and Dizzy Gillespie. Gained recognition for improvisational skills and style in both trio and big band formats. Received several awards for contributions to jazz, including a Grammy Award.

Collaborated with Ella Fitzgerald

Performed with Dizzy Gillespie

Received a Grammy Award

Other People Born on July 31st

Bill Todman

American screenwriter and producer of 'The Twilight Zone'
Born
July 31st, 1916 109 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1979 46 years ago — 62 years old

Contributed significantly to the television industry as a screenwriter and producer. Worked alongside partner Charles E. Goodman to co-create various successful television shows. Instrumental in the production of the anthology series 'The Twilight Zone', which became a landmark in American television. Also contributed to the creation of other shows such as 'The Defenders' and 'Nice Time'. Over the years, produced and co-produced a number of popular television programs that garnered critical and audience acclaim.

Continue Reading

Augustus

Elector of Saxony and patron of arts
Born
July 31st, 1526 499 years ago
Died
August 19th, 14 2011 years ago — -1512 years old

Birth occurred on July 31, 1526. Served as Elector of Saxony from 1547 until death in 1586. Played a significant role in the Protestant Reformation by supporting Martin Luther and promoting Protestantism in Saxony. Established the University of Wittenberg, where reformist ideas flourished. Encouraged the development of the arts and culture, leading to notable advancements during the Renaissance period in Germany.

Continue Reading

Julian Richards

Welsh director and producer of horror films
Born
July 31st, 1968 57 years ago

A director and producer focused on the horror genre. Held a prominent role in the development of several significant films. Directed 'Summer Scars', which received critical attention in the horror community. Has worked on multiple projects, both in the UK and internationally, establishing a reputation within the genre. Engaged in producing content that explores dark themes.

Continue Reading

Peter Nichols

English author and playwright
Born
July 31st, 1927 98 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 92 years old

An English author and playwright, contributed to contemporary theatre through a blend of humor and poignant storytelling. Frequently explored themes of relationships, identity, and the human condition. Works have been staged in various theatres, gaining recognition for their engaging narratives. Significant contributions include works in both original plays and adaptations, showcasing a keen understanding of character development and dialogue.

Continue Reading

Tim Wright

Welsh composer of video game music
Born
July 31st, 1967 58 years ago

A Welsh composer gained recognition primarily for creating music for video games. His work includes contributions to popular titles such as 'Descent' and 'Quake'. Wright has a background in both classical and electronic music, which influenced his compositions across various genres within the gaming industry. Collaborating with several developers, he contributed to the soundtracks that enhanced the gaming experience during the 1990s and early 2000s. His innovative use of sound has been noted for elevating the audio landscape of interactive entertainment.

Continue Reading

Richard Griffiths

English Actor in The History Boys
Born
July 31st, 1947 78 years ago
Died
March 28th, 2013 12 years ago — 65 years old

An English actor gained prominence through performances in theatre and film. Gained acclaim for the role of Hector in the play 'The History Boys', which later adapted into a successful film. Appeared in memorable performances in the 'Harry Potter' film series as Uncle Vernon Dursley. Developed a solid reputation on stage, known for roles in productions like 'The Wind in the Willows' and 'The Homecoming'. Achieved recognition for his work in various dramas and was a respected figure in the British theatre scene until his passing.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on May 16th

Grace Elliott

Scottish courtesan and spy during Napoleonic Wars
Died
May 16th, 1823 202 years ago — None years old

Born around 1754 in Scotland, worked as a courtesan in London and became involved in espionage during the Napoleonic Wars. Established connections with influential figures, facilitating the exchange of critical information between British and French interests. Played a significant role in supporting British intelligence efforts, utilizing relationships to gather insights. After the war, settled in France, where continued to engage with prominent society.

Continue Reading

Ernie Chan

Illustrator for comic books and graphic novels
Born
1940 85 years ago
Died
May 16th, 2012 13 years ago — 72 years old

An illustrator of comic books and graphic novels, this individual worked prominently in the industry during the 1970s and 1980s. Contributions included collaborations with major publishers, particularly DC Comics and Marvel Comics. Significant work involved the design and illustrations for characters in notable series, enhancing the visual storytelling of the comic medium. Credited with a distinctive style that combined realism with dynamic action, contributions helped shape the visual landscape of superhero comics during that era.

Continue Reading

Reuben Chapman

American lawyer, 13th Governor of Alabama
Born
July 15th, 1799 226 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1882 143 years ago — 82 years old

Served as the 13th Governor of Alabama from 1837 to 1841. Prior to the governorship, held various political offices in Alabama. Contributed to the establishment of early state institutions and legal frameworks. Engaged in law practice before entering politics and maintained a focus on public service throughout his career.

Continue Reading

Mark McCormack

Sports agent and IMG founder
Born
1930 95 years ago
Died
May 16th, 2003 22 years ago — 73 years old

An American lawyer and sports agent, instrumental in shaping the sports management industry through the founding of International Management Group (IMG) in 1960. Developed innovative marketing strategies and established numerous lucrative endorsement deals for athletes and sports figures. Played a key role in the careers of many golfers, including Arnold Palmer, and significantly increased their visibility and earnings. The business model created became a standard in the management of athletes and entertainers.

Continue Reading

Joseph Fourier

Mathematician known for Fourier series
Born
March 21st, 1768 257 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1830 195 years ago — 62 years old

A prominent mathematician and physicist, contributed significantly to the study of heat transfer and vibrations. Developed Fourier series, which express functions as sums of sines and cosines, enabling solutions in various fields including engineering, physics, and signal processing. Authored 'The Analytical Theory of Heat,' establishing the basis for heat conduction analysis. Served as a member of the French Academy of Sciences and was involved in the political sphere during the French Revolution, including governance in Egypt under Napoleon.

Continue Reading

Frankie Librán

Baseball player, MLB World Series champion
Born
1948 77 years ago
Died
May 16th, 2013 12 years ago — 65 years old

A Puerto Rican-American baseball player played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball. His career spanned from 1969 to 1975, with significant contributions to the Chicago Cubs and the New York Yankees. During his tenure, he achieved notable success, including participation in the 1977 World Series with the Yankees. Librán's athletic prowess was evident during both regular and post-season games, showcasing his skills on the mound.

Continue Reading