Jason Becker
American guitarist and songwriter

Born
July 22nd, 1970
55 years ago
Category
Artists & Creatives
Country
United States
Links & References
A guitarist and songwriter, recognized for contributions to the heavy metal genre. At a young age, exhibited extraordinary skills and was hailed as a guitar prodigy. Gained attention as a member of the band Cacophony, alongside Marty Friedman. Released the acclaimed solo album 'Perpetual Burn' in 1988, showcasing virtuoso guitar techniques. Later diagnosed with ALS, continued to compose music using eye movement technology, demonstrating remarkable perseverance in the face of adversity.
Released the album 'Perpetual Burn'
Played with the band Cacophony
Composed music despite ALS diagnosis
Other People Born on July 22nd
Junior Cook
A prominent jazz saxophonist, contributed to the genre through performances and recordings during the mid-20th century. Collaborated with notable musicians, including Horace Silver and the Jazz Messengers. His work primarily featured the tenor saxophone and showcased his improvisational skills. Played in various recordings that exemplified the hard bop style, influencing a generation of musicians. His music continues to be celebrated in jazz circles.
Continue ReadingMadame de Brinvilliers
A French aristocrat engaged in a notorious series of poisonings. Active in the 17th century, she was implicated in the deaths of family members and others through the use of poison. Her actions raised significant alarm in French society and led to a high-profile trial. Captured in 1676, she escaped from prison and fled to England before being recaptured and ultimately executed in 1676. The case drew attention not only for its sensational nature but also for the broader implications regarding poison and intrigue among the French nobility.
Continue ReadingAlan Menken
Born in 1949, a prominent American composer and pianist specialized in film and theater music. Achievements include multiple Academy Awards, Grammys, and Tonys. Collaborated extensively with lyricist Howard Ashman on several animated films for Disney, creating iconic soundtracks that became synonymous with the company's resurgence in the 1990s. Notable works include music for 'The Little Mermaid', 'Beauty and the Beast', and 'Aladdin'. Menken's compositions are characterized by memorable melodies and rich orchestration, contributing significantly to the storytelling of the films.
Continue ReadingWillem Dafoe
Born in 1955, this American actor gained recognition for his versatile roles in film and stage. Initially collaborating with the experimental theater group Wooster Group, significant performances included roles in 'Platoon' and 'Shadow of the Vampire'. Major accolades include an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor in 'Platoon' and a BAFTA Award win for Best Supporting Actor in 'Shadow of the Vampire'. Other notable works include 'Spider-Man', portraying the Green Goblin, and 'The Florida Project', which earned another Academy Award nomination. A reputation for chameleon-like ability to embody characters has defined a career spanning several decades.
Continue ReadingPaul Coutts
Played as a midfielder primarily for Dundee United and later for teams such as Portsmouth and Sheffield United. Coutts began his career at Aberdeen before moving to play in the English Football League. Known for his passing ability and tactical awareness, he contributed significantly to the teams he played for, earning a reputation as a reliable midfielder in both Scottish and English football. His playing style emphasized ball retention and distribution, impacting team dynamics positively during his tenure.
Continue ReadingAl Di Meola
An American guitarist, songwriter, and producer emerged in the jazz and fusion genres. His career began in the 1970s, collaborating with influential musicians and releasing several acclaimed albums. The album 'Elegant Gypsy' showcased technical proficiency and innovative compositions. Di Meola's playing style blends jazz, rock, and world music influences. He toured extensively, performing in renowned venues globally and receiving recognition for his virtuosic performances.
Continue Reading