Jerry Lee Lewis
Rock and roll singer-songwriter and pianist
Pioneer of rock and roll music, played the piano and sang with a distinctive style. Achieved widespread fame with hits such as "Great Balls of Fire" and "Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On". Career included performing at the Grand Ole Opry and multiple recordings that charted globally. Controversy surrounded personal life, but contributions to the music industry were significant across decades.
Released hit singles like "Great Balls of Fire"
Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1986
Pioneered the rockabilly genre
Other People Born on September 29th
John Lesley
Scottish Bishop and historian
Born
September 29th, 1527 499 years ago
Died
1596 430 years ago — 69 years old
Elected as the bishop of Ross in 1562, held a prominent position within the Scottish Catholic Church during the tumultuous Reformation period. Active in political affairs, Lesley participated in the defense of Mary, Queen of Scots, and served as a historian chronicling the events of the time. Authored 'De Origine, Moribus, et Rebus Gestis Scotorum', detailing Scottish history and asserting the Catholic perspective. His work contributed to the preservation of Scottish ecclesiastical history during a period of significant change.
Continue ReadingTrevor Howard
English actor in classic films
Born
September 29th, 1913 113 years ago
Died
January 7th, 1988 38 years ago — 74 years old
An English actor, achieved prominence in the mid-20th century. Featured in a range of films across various genres, with a notable role in "Brief Encounter" and performances in "The Third Man" and "The Bounty." Became a respected figure in the acting community for stage and screen work. Worked in partnership with acclaimed directors and fellow actors throughout a notable career in film and theater.
Continue ReadingLuther D. Bradley
American cartoonist and illustrator
Born
September 29th, 1853 173 years ago
Died
January 9th, 1917 109 years ago — 63 years old
This cartoonist contributed illustrations and comic strips to newspapers during the early 20th century. His work featured humor and often addressed everyday life, drawing the attention of a wide audience. He created memorable characters that resonated with readers. His ability to blend art with wit made his cartoons popular and influential in American culture at the time.
Continue ReadingLizabeth Scott
American actress in film noir
Born
September 29th, 1922 104 years ago
Died
January 31st, 2015 11 years ago — 92 years old
An actress recognized for contributions to film noir during the 1940s and 1950s. Frequently starred alongside prominent actors in classic films. Appeared in titles such as 'Mildred Pierce,' 'Too Late for Tears,' and 'The Strange Loves of Martha Ivers.' Achieved critical acclaim for performances that showcased strong female roles.
Continue ReadingGeorge W. Jenkins
American businessman, founded Publix
Born
September 29th, 1907 119 years ago
Died
1996 30 years ago — 89 years old
A businessman founded a supermarket chain that transformed grocery retail in the southeastern United States. Established Publix Super Markets in 1930, starting with a single store in Winter Haven, Florida. Oversaw the expansion of Publix into one of the largest employee-owned supermarket chains in the nation. Emphasized customer service and quality, leading the company to a strong reputation in the grocery industry.
Continue ReadingLes Claypool
American bass player and songwriter
Born
September 29th, 1963 63 years ago
A bass player, singer, songwriter, and producer. Founded the band Primus, which gained fame in the early 1990s with their unique sound. Released albums such as 'Frizzle Fry' and 'Sailing the Seas of Cheese', contributing to a distinct alternative metal style. Experimented with different musical genres and collaborated with various artists throughout a prolific career.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 28th
Tetsuharu Kawakami
Japanese baseball player and manager
Born
March 23rd, 1920 106 years ago
Died
October 28th, 2013 13 years ago — 93 years old
Played professional baseball in Japan primarily as an outfielder. Served as a player-manager for the Yomiuri Giants, one of the most successful teams in Nippon Professional Baseball. Achieved multiple championships and earned recognition for leadership and strategy on the field. Transitioned into a managerial role after a successful playing career, guiding teams to further successes.
Continue ReadingStefano Landi
Composer known for Baroque operas
Born
February 26th, 1587 439 years ago
Died
October 28th, 1639 387 years ago — 52 years old
Born in 1587, this Italian composer contributed significantly to the early Baroque musical landscape. His works often blended elements of drama and lyricism, reflecting the evolving style of the period. Key compositions include operas, notably 'Il Sant'Alessio', which showcased innovative use of recitative and aria. Additionally, he was active in the Venetian musical scene, influencing the development of opera and vocal music during a formative time in European music history. Beyond composition, he was involved in education, shaping future musicians.
Continue ReadingErling Persson
H&M founder and retail pioneer
Born
January 21st, 1917 109 years ago
Died
October 28th, 2002 24 years ago — 85 years old
Founded H&M in 1947, which became a global fashion retailer. The first store opened in Västerås, Sweden, and the brand rapidly expanded internationally. Under leadership, H&M introduced affordable fashion to a broad audience, emphasizing sustainability in recent years. Persson's vision established a successful business model in the fast fashion industry.
Continue ReadingTrevor Berbick
Jamaican-Canadian professional boxer
Born
August 1st, 1954 72 years ago
Died
October 28th, 2006 20 years ago — 52 years old
Born in Jamaica, a boxer achieved success in the heavyweight division. Won the WBC heavyweight title in 1986 after defeating Pinklon Thomas. Represented Canada in several international competitions. Fought notable opponents including Muhammad Ali in Ali's final professional match in 1981. Competed actively until the late 1990s, gaining recognition for his boxing technique and resilience in the ring.
Continue ReadingThomas Graham Brown
Scottish mountaineer and physiologist
Born
March 27th, 1882 144 years ago
Died
October 28th, 1965 61 years ago — 83 years old
Contributions to mountaineering and physiology marked a significant career. Conducted pioneering research in exercise physiology, particularly in the area of altitude physiology. Made notable ascents in the Scottish mountains and played a key role in mountaineering clubs. Authored important texts on the subject, enhancing understanding of the human body's response to extreme conditions.
Continue ReadingMargaret I of Denmark
Queen and ruler of Denmark, Norway, Sweden
Born
1353 673 years ago
Died
October 28th, 1412 614 years ago — 59 years old
Ruled as Queen of Denmark, Norway, and Sweden, establishing the Kalmar Union which unified the three kingdoms under a single monarch. Ascended to the throne of Denmark after the death of her adopted son, Eric of Pomerania. Successfully navigated political challenges and regional conflicts during her reign, promoting trade and diplomacy among the Nordic countries. Played a significant role in the power dynamics of Northern Europe during the late 14th and early 15th centuries.
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