Janis Joplin
Singer-songwriter with iconic voice
Born in Port Arthur, Texas, a prominent figure in the 1960s music scene emerged with a distinctive voice and emotional delivery. Rose to fame as the lead singer of Big Brother and the Holding Company, especially with the hit 'Piece of My Heart.' Pursued a solo career, releasing acclaimed albums including 'Cheap Thrills' and 'Pearl.' An influential performer, often associated with the counterculture movement, played an integral role in the Monterey Pop Festival and Woodstock. Joplin's life was marked by struggles with substance abuse, and she tragically died at a young age, leaving a lasting legacy in rock music.
Led Big Brother and the Holding Company
Released the album 'Pearl'
Performed at the Woodstock Festival
Other People Born on January 19th
Paolo Bugia
Filipino basketball player
Born
January 19th, 1981 45 years ago
A Filipino basketball player who played for various teams in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), developing a career notable for contributions in both collegiate and professional leagues. After a successful collegiate career with the University of the East, transitioned to the professional circuit and became a member of several PBA teams. Over the years, gained recognition for playing forward positions and contributing to team dynamics. Competed in local championships and became a part of the PBA community, showcasing skills and teamwork on the court.
Continue ReadingJonathan Taylor
American football player and Pro Bowler
Born
January 19th, 1999 27 years ago
Played college football at the University of Wisconsin, setting multiple rushing records. Drafted by the Indianapolis Colts in 2020. Achieved success in the NFL as a running back, contributing significantly to the team's offensive efforts. Earned Pro Bowl selections and led the league in rushing yards and touchdowns during the 2021 season. Known for speed, agility, and powerful running style.
Continue ReadingKarun Chandhok
Indian racing driver with Formula One experience
Born
January 19th, 1984 42 years ago
Began racing career in karting and progressed to various single-seater series. Competed in the Formula Renault series and made a significant impact in the British F3 Championship. In 2010, participated in Formula One racing for the Hispania Racing Team. Achieved notable performances in other racing formats, including endurance racing and the Le Mans series. Continued participation in motorsports in India, contributing to the development of the racing scene.
Continue ReadingDrea de Matteo
Actress from 'The Sopranos' and 'Joey'
Born
January 19th, 1972 54 years ago
An American actress began her career in television and film during the late 1990s. Gained recognition for her role as Adriana La Cerva on 'The Sopranos', which aired from 1999 to 2007. Also starred in the sitcom 'Joey', a spin-off of the popular show 'Friends', from 2004 to 2006. Appearances in films include 'Swordfish', 'The Virgin Suicides', and 'A Perfect Murder'. Won an Emmy Award in 2004 for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series for work on 'The Sopranos'.
Continue ReadingPat Patterson
Wrestler and WWF promoter
Born
January 19th, 1941 85 years ago
Died
December 2nd, 2020 5 years ago — 79 years old
A prominent figure in professional wrestling, notable for contributions as a wrestler, trainer, and referee. Pioneered the Royal Rumble match concept in the WWF, which became an annual staple. Additionally, played a significant role in training several wrestlers, passing on techniques and insights gained during a productive wrestling career. Served as a key creative force in the wrestling industry through various roles, influencing the development of wrestling storylines and characters.
Continue ReadingWalter Benítez
Argentine footballer, goalkeeper for PSV
Born
January 19th, 1993 33 years ago
Born in 1993, this Argentine footballer began his professional career at Racing Club, where notable performances in goal garnered attention. In 2016, transferred to the Netherlands to join PSV Eindhoven. Within PSV, established a reputation for excellent shot-stopping ability and command of the penalty area. Contributed to the team's defensive strength and played a crucial role during the Eredivisie campaigns, helping the club secure multiple league titles. Represented Argentina at various youth levels, showcasing talent on an international stage.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 4th
Norman Wisdom
Comedian and actor in 'The Square Peg'
Born
February 4th, 1915 111 years ago
Died
October 4th, 2010 15 years ago — 95 years old
An English comedian, actor, and singer-songwriter, this figure gained prominence in the mid-20th century through film and stage performances. Starting his career in music halls, rose to fame for a unique style of physical comedy and an engaging personality. Starred in a series of films during the 1950s and 1960s, including 'The Nutty Professor' and 'The Square Peg'. Also known for a long-running television program and theatrical performances, entertained audiences for decades. Besides acting, ventured into music, releasing singles and albums throughout his career.
Continue ReadingS. Arasaratnam
Sri Lankan historian and author
Born
March 20th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
October 4th, 1998 27 years ago — 68 years old
Contributed significantly to the understanding of Sri Lankan history and society through academic scholarship. Served as a professor at the University of Jaffna and engaged extensively in research on the Tamil history of Sri Lanka. Authored several important works that explored ethnic relations and colonial history, providing insights into the socio-political dynamics of the region. Involved in various academic institutions and was a respected figure in the field of historical studies.
Continue ReadingVõ Nguyên Giáp
Vietnamese general and politician
Born
August 25th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
October 4th, 2013 12 years ago — 102 years old
Served as a general in the Vietnam People's Army and as Minister of Defence during the Vietnam War. Played a key role in leading North Vietnamese forces against the French colonial and later the American military during the Vietnam War. Contributed to significant victories such as the Battle of Dien Bien Phu, which resulted in French withdrawal from Indochina, and the Tet Offensive, which significantly influenced public opinion about the Vietnam War. After the war, served in various political positions and remained influential in military strategy and politics until the late 20th century.
Continue ReadingUlric Cross
Trinidadian diplomat and judge
Born
May 1st, 1917 108 years ago
Died
October 4th, 2013 12 years ago — 96 years old
A navigator, judge, and diplomat from Trinidad, contributed significantly to the fields of law and international relations. Served as a judge on the Caribbean Court of Justice and contributed to the establishment of various legal frameworks in the Caribbean. Actively participated in the independence movement in various Caribbean nations, advocating for self-governance. Held several key diplomatic roles, representing his country and region in various international forums.
Continue ReadingDanny Gatton
American guitarist and musical innovator
Born
September 4th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
October 4th, 1994 31 years ago — 49 years old
An influential American guitarist, recognized for exceptional skill across various genres including rock, country, and jazz. His innovative playing style, characterized by intricate fingerpicking and mastery of various techniques, earned significant acclaim in the music community. Gatton released several albums, with 'Engineering' being one of the highlights of his career. He performed with notable artists and was a sought-after session musician, contributing to many recordings throughout the 1980s and 1990s. Despite his contributions, he remained relatively obscure to mainstream audiences until later years when he began to gain recognition.
Continue ReadingDenny Hulme
Formula One driver and 1967 World Champion
Born
June 18th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
October 4th, 1992 33 years ago — 56 years old
A prominent race car driver from New Zealand, significant achievements occurred in Formula One during the 1960s and 1970s. Competed successfully with the Brabham team, securing the World Championship title in 1967, becoming the first New Zealander to win this honor. Additionally participated in various endurance races, including the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans, showcasing versatility and skill in motorsport. Later in career, transitioned to New Zealand touring car competitions, achieving notable victories.
Continue Reading