Jim Croce
Singer-songwriter, lyricist, guitarist
Born in 1943, this American singer-songwriter gained fame in the early 1970s. His music combined folk, rock, and pop elements, resonating with a wide audience. The artist's career was marked by the release of several successful albums and hits, including 'You Don’t Mess Around with Jim' and 'Time in a Bottle'. Tragically, a plane crash in 1973 cut short a promising career.
Released the album 'You Don’t Mess Around with Jim'
Hit single 'Time in a Bottle' topped the charts
Recognized for storytelling in songwriting
Other People Born on January 10th
Margaret of Austria
Duchess of Savoy and regent
Born
January 10th, 1480 545 years ago
Died
December 1st, 1530 495 years ago — 50 years old
Born into the Habsburg dynasty, held titles of Duchess of Savoy and Countess of Rethel. Played a significant role in the politics of Europe during the early 16th century. Served as regent to her son, held in high regard for her diplomatic skills. Managed the affairs of the Duchy of Savoy amidst the political turmoil and changing alliances of the time, reflecting her influence in shaping the region's power dynamics. Died in 1530.
Continue ReadingGurinder Chadha
Film director and producer of 'Bend It Like Beckham'
Born
January 10th, 1960 65 years ago
This director, producer, and screenwriter is associated with the British film industry. Renowned for addressing themes of culture and identity, this individual gained prominence with the film 'Bend It Like Beckham', which showcased the experiences of British-Indian youth. The film highlighted the challenges faced by immigrants and their families in adapting to new environments while retaining cultural values. Other notable works include 'Bride and Prejudice' and 'Angus, Thongs and Perfect Snogging', which further explored multicultural narratives. These films often blend humor with serious themes, appealing to a wide audience. The director has received various accolades throughout the career, affirming contributions to cinema.
Continue ReadingMichael Schenker
Guitarist and songwriter, Scorpions member
Born
January 10th, 1955 70 years ago
A prominent musician and songwriter, contributions to rock music were significant from the 1970s onwards. Instrumental in shaping the sound of hard rock, work with the bands Scorpions and UFO helped define the genre. Formed the Michael Schenker Group, which showcased remarkable guitar talent and songwriting skills. Continues to perform worldwide, influencing generations of guitarists.
Continue ReadingRodger Ward
Aviator and race car driver
Born
January 10th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
July 5th, 2004 21 years ago — 83 years old
Participated in racing events during the 1950s and 1960s. Achieved significant success in the Indianapolis 500, winning the race twice, in 1959 and 1962. Also had a notable career as a sportscaster, offering insights into various motorsport events. In addition to racing, contributed to the world of aviation through piloting and stunt work. Influenced both motorsport and aviation communities throughout his career.
Continue ReadingKhairy Jamaluddin
Malaysian politician and health minister
Born
January 10th, 1976 49 years ago
Served as a prominent Malaysian politician and held the position of Minister of Health. Played a significant role in shaping health policies and responses during critical periods in the country. Represented the Rembau constituency in the Malaysian Parliament and became actively involved in youth politics, contributing to various initiatives aimed at empowering the younger generation. Served as the Chief of the Youth Wing of the United Malays National Organization (UMNO), promoting engagement within the youth demographic.
Continue ReadingChad Townsend
Rugby league player, Premiership winner
Born
January 10th, 1991 34 years ago
Born in 1991, a rugby league player with notable performances in the National Rugby League (NRL). Represented teams including the Cronulla Sharks and the North Queensland Cowboys. Achieved significant success, winning the NRL Premiership with the Sharks in 2016. Played in a pivotal role during many seasons and contributed to his teams’ overall performance in the league.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 20th
Giorgos Seferis
Greek Poet, Nobel Prize Laureate
Born
March 13th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
September 20th, 1971 54 years ago — 71 years old
A prominent Greek poet and diplomat, contributions include significant literary works that explore themes of identity, exile, and the human experience. Seferis' poetry incorporates elements of modernist experimentation. In 1963, awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature, becoming the first Greek to receive this honor. Worked as a diplomat in various capacities, representing Greece in London and at the United Nations. His notable works include 'Strophe,' 'Gymnopaedia,' and the collection 'Mythistorema.'
Continue ReadingErich Hartmann
German fighter pilot and colonel
Born
April 19th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
September 20th, 1993 32 years ago — 71 years old
Served as a fighter pilot in the Luftwaffe during World War II. Achieved the highest number of aerial victories, totaling 352 downed enemy aircraft. Completed combat missions on the Eastern Front. After the war, sentenced to imprisonment by the Allies but later returned to service in the newly formed German Air Force.
Continue ReadingBurhanuddin Rabbani
Afghan politician and academic leader
Born
1940 85 years ago
Died
September 20th, 2011 14 years ago — 71 years old
An influential academic and politician served as the 10th President of Afghanistan from 1992 to 1996. During the Mujahideen's struggle against Soviet intervention, led the Islamic Unity of Afghanistan and played a significant role in the power dynamics of the country after the Soviet withdrawal. After the Taliban's rise, continued to be active in opposition politics and headed the High Council for Peace. Promoted negotiations aimed at reviving peace in Afghanistan until assassination in 2011.
Continue ReadingGilles Verlant
Belgian journalist and music critic
Born
1957 68 years ago
Died
September 20th, 2013 12 years ago — 56 years old
A Belgian journalist and music critic, contributed significantly to the field of music journalism. Worked extensively with notable publications, providing insight and critique on various music genres. Authored several books on music and its cultural relevance. Had a profound interest in rock music, particularly focusing on the Belgian music scene. Hosted radio programs and participated in various festivals, promoting musical talents.
Continue ReadingJames Westerfield
American actor in classic films
Born
March 22nd, 1913 112 years ago
Died
September 20th, 1971 54 years ago — 58 years old
A prominent American actor, active primarily in film and television during the mid-20th century. Appeared in numerous movies and series that contributed to the entertainment landscape of that era. Gained recognition for various roles in classic films, showcasing versatility in character portrayals. His contributions to film included collaborations with well-known directors and performances alongside notable actors, cementing a place in the annals of American cinema.
Continue ReadingHermann II
Count Palatine of Lotharingia
Born
1049 976 years ago
Died
September 20th, 1085 940 years ago — 36 years old
Ruled as the Count Palatine of Lotharingia during the late 11th century. Engaged in the political dynamics of the Holy Roman Empire, navigating through conflicts and alliances. Held significant influence during the reign of Emperor Henry IV. Contributed to the territorial and administrative organization of the region. His tenure was marked by challenges related to nobility and governance.
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