Ian Curtis
English singer-songwriter of Joy Division
A prominent English singer-songwriter and guitarist, contributed significantly to the post-punk music scene. Formed the band Joy Division in 1976, which became one of the genre's most influential groups. Released the critically acclaimed album 'Unknown Pleasures' in 1979, which showcased a distinctive sound characterized by atmospheric instrumentation and introspective lyrics. The band's follow-up album, 'Closer,' was released in 1980 shortly before the singer's death. Curtis's lyrics often explored themes of existentialism and emotional turmoil, resonating with listeners and cementing his legacy in music history.
Formed Joy Division in 1976
Released 'Unknown Pleasures' in 1979
Released 'Closer' in 1980
Other People Born on July 15th
Masataka Yoshida
Japanese baseball player, MLB All-Star
Born
July 15th, 1993 32 years ago
A professional baseball player from Japan, recognized for a successful career in Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) before transitioning to Major League Baseball (MLB). Played for the Orix Buffaloes in NPB, achieving a batting title in 2021. Joined the Boston Red Sox in 2022, participating in the MLB All-Star Game and contributing significantly to the team.
Continue ReadingTwinkle
English singer-songwriter with chart hits
Born
July 15th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
May 21st, 2015 10 years ago — 66 years old
A singer-songwriter born in England, notable for contributions to the music scene in the late 1960s. Gained recognition with hit singles, particularly 'Golden Lights' and 'Angel of the Morning'. Her style incorporated elements of folk and pop, leading to a dedicated fan base. Continued to perform and release music decades after initial fame, showcasing resilience in the industry.
Continue ReadingRonald Gene Simmons
American sergeant and convicted murderer
Born
July 15th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
June 25th, 1990 35 years ago — 49 years old
Served in the United States Air Force and attained the rank of sergeant. Committed a series of murders in the early 1980s, resulting in the deaths of 16 individuals, primarily family members. Arrested in 1987, he was convicted of multiple counts of murder. The case received significant media attention due to the nature of the crimes and their impact on the community.
Continue ReadingTobias Harris
Professional basketball player; NBA All-Star
Born
July 15th, 1992 33 years ago
Professional basketball player played in the NBA. Drafted 19th overall in the 2011 NBA Draft by the Charlotte Bobcats. Played for multiple teams including the Milwaukee Bucks, Orlando Magic, and Pistons. Became a key player for the Philadelphia 76ers. Participated in the NBA All-Star Game, showcasing performance and skill at the highest level of basketball. Achieved significant scoring in regular season and playoffs.
Continue ReadingHarrison Rhodes
American NASCAR driver & team owner
Born
July 15th, 1993 32 years ago
Born in 1993, Harrison Rhodes began a career in professional racing, primarily competing in NASCAR events. Rhodes participated in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, driving for various teams throughout his career. He has also taken part in races such as the Daytona International Speedway, showcasing his skills in high-stakes environments. In addition to driving, Rhodes has been involved in team ownership, contributing to the operational aspect of racing teams. His experiences in the sport have spanned several seasons, with a notable presence in the Xfinity Series circuit.
Continue ReadingMohamed Sobhy
Egyptian footballer, Egypt national team player
Born
July 15th, 1999 26 years ago
A professional footballer from Egypt, played as a midfielder. Throughout his career, has represented club teams in Egypt and participated in international competitions for the national team. Developed skills in youth academies before making professional debut. Contributed to team strategies and played key roles in various matches.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 18th
Joseph Pevney
Actor and director of television classics
Born
1911 114 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2008 17 years ago — 97 years old
A prominent actor and director, recognized for contributions to television during the mid-20th century. Directed numerous episodes of iconic shows including 'Star Trek', 'The Twilight Zone', and 'Bonanza'. Transitioned from acting to directing, showcasing a talent for crafting engaging stories. Over a career that spanned several decades, worked on various projects that garnered a dedicated following and critical acclaim.
Continue ReadingKen Osmond
American actor from Leave It to Beaver
Born
1943 82 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2020 5 years ago — 77 years old
An actor and police officer from the United States, best recognized for portraying Eddie Haskell on the television series Leave It to Beaver, which aired from 1957 to 1963. After the show's conclusion, transitioned to a career in law enforcement, serving with the Los Angeles Police Department. Returned to acting in the 1980s, reprising the role of Eddie Haskell in various television specials and reunions related to Leave It to Beaver.
Continue ReadingIsaac Albéniz
Spanish pianist and composer, Iberia
Born
May 29th, 1860 165 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1909 116 years ago — 48 years old
A prominent pianist and composer emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Early musical education took place in Barcelona and later in Brussels. Deployed innovative techniques and used Spanish folk themes in compositions. Iberia, a suite for piano, became one of the hallmark works showcasing intricate piano techniques and rich cultural references. Also, composed operas, piano works, and orchestral music, contributing to the classical music repertoire. Instrumental in establishing the 'Spanish' sound in classical music, influencing subsequent generations of composers.
Continue ReadingChris Cornell
Singer-songwriter and guitarist of Soundgarden
Born
July 20th, 1964 61 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2017 8 years ago — 52 years old
Cornell gained prominence as the lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist of the rock band Soundgarden, which played a key role in the 1990s Seattle grunge movement. The band achieved critical acclaim with albums like 'Superunknown' and 'Badmotorfinger'. In addition to his work with Soundgarden, he formed the band Audioslave, contributing to their success with hits like 'Like a Stone' and 'Cochise'. Cornell's solo career included the well-received album 'Euphoria Morning'. He was recognized for his powerful vocal range and emotional performances, earning multiple awards throughout his career including Grammys and an MTV Video Music Award. His contributions to music extended beyond his bands, with collaborations and contributions to soundtracks and tribute albums.
Continue ReadingStanisław Lubieniecki
Polish astronomer and theologian
Born
August 23rd, 1623 402 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1675 350 years ago — 51 years old
An influential Polish astronomer and theologian contributed significantly to the scientific community in the 17th century. Focused on astronomy, history, and theology, published several works that integrated scientific inquiry with philosophical and theological discussions. One of the notable contributions was the astronomical work discussing the heliocentric theory and supporting data. Served in various academic roles, implementing a methodology that combined empirical observation with theoretical frameworks, fostering a scholarly environment in Poland.
Continue ReadingElias Ashmole
Astrologer and politician with antiquities journal
Born
May 23rd, 1617 408 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1692 333 years ago — 74 years old
An English astrologer and politician, contributed significantly to the study of astrology and antiquities. Served as a key figure in the founding of the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford, becoming one of the earliest public museums in the world. Authored 'Theatrum Chemicum Brittanicum', a compilation of alchemical texts, which remains a crucial resource for historians of chemistry and astrology. His interest in antiquities led to notable contributions to the historical understanding of various artifacts.
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