Jerry Jeff Walker

Singer-songwriter of 'Mr. Bojangles'

Jerry Jeff Walker - Singer-songwriter of 'Mr. Bojangles'
Born

March 16th, 1942
83 years ago

Died

October 23rd, 2020
4 years ago — 78 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

A singer-songwriter and guitarist, notable for contributions to the country music genre. Grew up in New York and moved to Texas, where he became a key figure in the progressive country movement. Released the iconic song 'Mr. Bojangles' in 1968, which became a standard covered by numerous artists. Walker's style blended folk, country, and rock influences. He recorded several albums throughout his career, gaining a loyal fan base and influencing the Americana music scene.

Released 'Mr. Bojangles' in 1968

Helped popularize progressive country music

Recorded over 20 albums

Other People Born on March 16th

Joel Embiid

Cameroonian basketball player, NBA star
Born
March 16th, 1994 31 years ago

Born in Cameroon, this basketball player gained prominence in the NBA after being selected third overall by the Philadelphia 76ers in the 2014 NBA Draft. After facing injuries early in his career, he emerged as a dominant center known for scoring, rebounding, and shot-blocking. He played a pivotal role in leading the 76ers to multiple playoff appearances and achieved All-Star selections during several seasons. His playing style blends finesse and power, making him a formidable opponent in the league.

Continue Reading

Christa Ludwig

German opera singer with Wagner roles
Born
March 16th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 93 years old

A prominent opera singer specializing in both mezzo-soprano and soprano roles, achieved acclaim for performances in notable operas. Primarily associated with the works of Richard Wagner, delivered outstanding interpretations of characters such as Brünnhilde and Ortrud. Also gained recognition for roles in operas by Verdi and Strauss. Performed at major opera houses worldwide, including the Vienna State Opera and the Metropolitan Opera. Conducted masterclasses and contributed significantly to the education of future generations of singers.

Continue Reading

Sebastian Currier

American composer and educator
Born
March 16th, 1959 66 years ago

An influential figure in contemporary classical music, this individual has contributed significantly as a composer and educator. Pioneering in the use of technology in music composition, his works often blend traditional techniques with modern innovations. Teaching at various institutions, he has shaped the careers of many musicians and composers. His compositions have been performed by leading orchestras and ensembles, showcasing his unique voice in the music world.

Continue Reading

Vladimir Komarov

Russian pilot and cosmonaut, Soyuz 1
Born
March 16th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
April 24th, 1967 58 years ago — 40 years old

A pilot and engineer, made significant contributions to space exploration as a cosmonaut. Flew on the Vostok 1 mission in April 1967. Commanded the Soyuz 1 mission in April 1967, which ended in tragedy when the spacecraft crashed upon re-entry. Despite the mission's outcome, advancements were made in crewed spaceflight and safety protocols as a result of this flight. Participated in the development of Soviet space technology and testing programs.

Continue Reading

Frantz Reichel

French rugby player and hurdler
Born
March 16th, 1871 154 years ago
Died
March 24th, 1932 93 years ago — 61 years old

Competed in rugby union and athletics. Participated in the 1900 Summer Olympics as a hurdler. Contributed to the early development of rugby in France, playing with the Union des sociétés françaises de sports athlétiques and participated in the first rugby internationals. His dual sports career showcased versatility and athleticism during a formative period for both sports in France.

Continue Reading

Leo McKern

Actor, known for 'Rumpole of the Bailey'
Born
March 16th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
July 23rd, 2002 23 years ago — 82 years old

Born in Australia, McKern became a prominent actor in both Australian and English theatre and television. He gained attention for his work in various productions prior to rising to fame with his role in the series 'Rumpole of the Bailey'. McKern also appeared in films and on stage, showcasing a range of characters that highlighted his versatility. His performances spanned several decades, earning recognition for his contributions to the performing arts.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on October 23rd

William Hootkins

Actor in 'Star Wars' and 'Raiders of the Lost Ark'
Born
1948 77 years ago
Died
October 23rd, 2005 19 years ago — 57 years old

An American actor, contributions included notable roles in significant films during the late 20th century. Portrayed the character General Jan Dodonna in 'Star Wars' (1977) and played Major Eaton in 'Raiders of the Lost Ark' (1981). Also appeared in television series and films, showcasing versatility in both dramatic and comedic roles.

Continue Reading

Tiedemann Giese

Polish bishop and ecclesiastical leader
Born
June 1st, 1480 545 years ago
Died
October 23rd, 1550 474 years ago — 70 years old

Tiedemann Giese served as a bishop in the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth during the 16th century. Giese was a significant figure in the Catholic Church, acting from Prussia. He promoted the Counter-Reformation efforts within his diocese and supported various educational initiatives. Giese's tenure witnessed challenges tied to both theological disputes and the political landscape of the region. His contributions to church administration and his role in local ecclesiastical matters played a crucial part in the management of the diocese during a transformative period.

Continue Reading

Ignatios of Constantinople

Byzantine patriarch of Constantinople
Died
October 23rd, 877 1147 years ago — None years old

Elected as the patriarch of Constantinople, played a significant role in the ecclesiastical affairs of the Byzantine Empire during the 9th century. His tenure was marked by tensions with opposing factions within the church and political entities. Exiled multiple times due to conflicts with the imperial court, championed the veneration of icons during a period of iconoclasm. Contributions to church teachings and governance established a legacy that would influence subsequent church leaders.

Continue Reading

Al Jolson

American singer and actor known for The Jazz Singer
Born
May 26th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
October 23rd, 1950 74 years ago — 64 years old

Born in 1886, this individual gained prominence as a singer and actor in the early 20th century. The performer became a pivotal figure in the history of American entertainment, particularly noted for leading the way in sound films. Debuting in the first feature-length talkie, 'The Jazz Singer', a landmark film of 1927, the work revolutionized the film industry. The artist also starred in numerous Broadway productions and maintained a successful recording career, popularizing songs such as 'Swanee' and 'My Mammy'.

Continue Reading

Bill Nicholson

Football manager and player with Tottenham
Born
January 26th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
October 23rd, 2004 20 years ago — 85 years old

Started a career as a football player, distinguishing as a right winger at the club Tottenham Hotspur, where he served from 1936 to 1942. Transitioned to management in 1958, leading Tottenham to significant victories, including their first FA Cup trophy in 1961 and the UEFA Cup in 1972. His tenure contributed to the establishment of Tottenham as a formidable force in English football.

Continue Reading

Armida

Mexican-American actress and singer
Born
1911 114 years ago
Died
October 23rd, 1989 35 years ago — 78 years old

An influential Mexican-American actress and singer, gained prominence for performances in the film and music industries. Gained acclaim for roles in films during the 1940s and 1950s. Known for a captivating singing style that showcased traditional music. Las Musiquitas, a radio program, provided a platform for artistic expression and connected with audiences. Leveraged talents in acting, singing, and dancing to weave rich narratives that resonated with the cultural landscape of her time.

Continue Reading