Ira Gershwin

American songwriter with classic lyrics

Ira Gershwin - American songwriter with classic lyrics
Born

December 6th, 1896
128 years ago

Died

August 17th, 1983
42 years ago — 86 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

A prominent American songwriter, contributed lyrics to many celebrated songs and musicals. Collaborated extensively with composer George Gershwin, creating lasting works in American music. Wrote lyrics for iconic songs such as 'Summertime', 'I Got Rhythm', and 'Someone to Watch Over Me'. Lyricist for the Broadway musicals 'Porgy and Bess' and 'Lady, Be Good!', which showcased the Gershwin brothers' talents. Inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1970, further solidifying a legacy in American songwriting.

Wrote lyrics for 'Porgy and Bess'

Collaborated with George Gershwin on 'Summertime'

Inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame

Other People Born on December 6th

Kamleshwar

Indian author and screenwriter
Born
December 6th, 1932 92 years ago
Died
2007 18 years ago — 75 years old

An author, screenwriter, and critic contributed significantly to Hindi literature. Worked extensively in both novels and screenwriting. Published several acclaimed works including the novel 'Kitne Pakistan' which explored themes of identity and nationhood. Served as a prominent editor for various literary magazines, shaping literary discourse in India. His work often reflected socio-political issues of contemporary India and gained recognition for its depth and insight.

Continue Reading

Herta Freitag

Mathematician and educator
Born
December 6th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 92 years old

Born in Austria, a mathematician and educator contributed significantly to the fields of mathematics and education in the United States. After moving to the United States, focused on teaching mathematics at various educational institutions while also engaging in research. Developed methods to enhance mathematical understanding among students. Involved in several mathematical organizations, promoting the advancement of mathematics education.

Continue Reading

Miroslav Vitouš

Bassist and songwriter with Weather Report
Born
December 6th, 1947 77 years ago

Born in Czechoslovakia, a prominent bassist and composer contributed significantly to jazz music. Vitouš was a founding member of the acclaimed jazz fusion band Weather Report, which formed in 1970. The band gained international recognition for its innovative sound and style. After relocating to the United States, performed with various notable musicians and ensembles, showcasing exceptional skills on the double bass and electric bass. Released several solo albums, further solidifying a reputation in the jazz community. Throughout a career spanning decades, collaborated with a range of talented artists, enriching the genre with unique compositions and performances.

Continue Reading

Haraprasad Shastri

Historian and scholar of Indian antiquity
Born
December 6th, 1853 171 years ago
Died
1931 94 years ago — 78 years old

Contributed significantly to the study of ancient Indian history and literature. Played a key role in deciphering ancient texts and manuscripts, which revitalized interest in Sanskrit literature. Engaged with various historical sources to establish a comprehensive understanding of India's past. Worked on the editing and publication of several pivotal works on Indian history, culture, and language.

Continue Reading

Graeme Hughes

Sportscaster and former Australian athlete
Born
December 6th, 1955 69 years ago

Played professional cricket for New South Wales and represented Australia in international matches. Transitioned to rugby league, competing for the Balmain Tigers. Established a career as a sportscaster, providing commentary and analysis for various networks. Engaged with sports enthusiasts through a media career that spanned decades.

Continue Reading

Linda Creed

Singer-songwriter of hit ballads
Born
December 6th, 1949 75 years ago
Died
April 10th, 1986 39 years ago — 36 years old

A prominent American singer-songwriter, contributions included co-writing numerous successful songs during the 1970s and 1980s. Collaborated closely with several well-known artists, creating memorable hits that are still celebrated today. Most notably, partnered with Michael Masser to write the classic ballad 'The Greatest Love of All', originally performed by George Benson and later popularized by Whitney Houston. Worked with artists such as Diana Ross and The Stylistics, further solidifying her reputation in the music industry. Creed's lyrical themes often centered on love and relationships, resonating with a wide audience.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on August 17th

John N. Bahcall

Astrophysicist and solar researcher
Born
December 30th, 1934 90 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2005 20 years ago — 70 years old

An American astrophysicist who significantly contributed to the understanding of the solar neutrino problem. Worked extensively on the solar model and played a vital role in the design of the Sudbury Neutrino Observatory. Served as a professor at the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton, New Jersey, and made lasting impacts in the field of particle astrophysics. His contributions extended beyond research, influencing the educational landscape through teaching and mentoring.

Continue Reading

Ted Whitten

Australian football player and journalist
Born
July 27th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1995 30 years ago — 62 years old

Played for the Essendon Football Club in the Victorian Football League (VFL) from 1951 to 1970, achieving great success in the sport. Served as a prominent football commentator after retirement and contributed to journalism. Represented Australia in international matches, earning recognition for playing at the highest level.

Continue Reading

José María of Manila

Spanish-Filipino priest and martyr
Born
September 5th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1936 89 years ago — 55 years old

A priest and martyr active in the early 20th century, dedicated ministry to the spiritual needs of the Catholic community in the Philippines. Established a reputation for commitment to faith while facing adversity during a time of political and social turmoil. Captured during conflicts related to anti-Catholic sentiments and executed for remaining steadfast in beliefs, culminating in martyrdom. Canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church in recognition of unwavering faith and sacrifice.

Continue Reading

Shamsur Rahman

Bangladeshi poet and journalist, wrote 'Joiboti Kobi'
Born
October 23rd, 1929 95 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2006 19 years ago — 76 years old

A prominent poet and journalist, contributed significantly to Bengali literature. Worked as an editor for various publications and founded a poetry movement that celebrated the Bengali language and culture. His poetry often reflected the social and political landscape of Bangladesh. Writings explored themes of love, loss, and identity. Engaged actively in the literature of protest during the political turmoil in Bangladesh.

Continue Reading

Husein Gradaščević

Ottoman general and military leader
Born
August 31st, 1802 223 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1834 191 years ago — 31 years old

A military leader held in significant regard during the early 19th century, played a prominent role in the Ottoman Empire's campaigns in the Balkans. Achieved the rank of general, leading Bosnian forces in various battles during the Herzegovina uprising against Ottoman authority. Worked toward the modernization and reform of the military, advocating for the autonomy of Bosnia within the Empire. Led efforts to rally support among local populations against external threats and internal challenges, ultimately rising to prominence amid the struggle for Bosnian independence.

Continue Reading

Nitta Yoshisada

Japanese samurai and military leader
Born
1301 724 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1338 687 years ago — 37 years old

A prominent samurai and military leader during the Kamakura period, known for significant actions in the Genkō War. Led forces against the Kamakura shogunate, playing a crucial role in the overthrow of this ruling power. After the fall of the Kamakura regime, commanded troops in efforts to consolidate power for the Ashikaga clan. Died in battle during the conflict, leaving a legacy as an impactful figure in the transition to the Muromachi period.

Continue Reading