Jim Reeves

American country music singer

Jim Reeves - American country music singer
Born

August 20th, 1923
102 years ago

Died

July 31st, 1964
61 years ago — 40 years old

Category

Performers & Entertainers

Country

United States

Links & References

A prominent figure in country music, this singer-songwriter became widely recognized for his smooth voice and romantic ballads during the 1950s and 1960s. Popular hits include 'Four Walls,' 'He’ll Have to Go,' and 'Distant Drums.' These songs topped charts and became staples in the country music genre. His style blended traditional country with elements of pop and jazz, appealing to a broad audience. The singer's career was marked by significant commercial success and a strong fan base, further solidified by numerous posthumous releases that featured his work. The legacy of this artist continues to influence country music.

Released hit songs like 'He’ll Have to Go'

Achieved commercial success with 'Distant Drums'

Popularized the 'countrypolitan' sound

Other People Born on August 20th

Matt Hague

American baseball player and first baseman
Born
August 20th, 1985 40 years ago

Played professional baseball primarily as a first baseman, having spent time in Major League Baseball with the Pittsburgh Pirates. Attended the University of Washington and was selected by the Pirates in the ninth round of the 2008 MLB Draft. Played in the 2012 MLB season, contributing to the team's performance during his tenure. Also had a notable career in minor leagues, showcasing skills in batting and fielding across various teams.

Continue Reading

Ralf Hütter

German singer and keyboard player of Kraftwerk
Born
August 20th, 1946 79 years ago

A key figure in the electronic music scene, contributions to the formation and development of the band Kraftwerk transformed popular music. As a founding member, played a significant role in establishing the genre of electronic music in the 1970s. The innovative use of technology and synthesizers in music set new standards for music production. The group achieved critical acclaim for albums such as 'Trans-Europe Express' and 'The Man-Machine', which influenced numerous artists across various genres. The fusion of art and technology in performances was groundbreaking, contributing to the band's cult status.

Continue Reading

Jean Gebser

Linguist and philosopher of consciousness
Born
August 20th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1973 52 years ago — 67 years old

Born in Germany, this linguist, poet, and philosopher made significant contributions to the understanding of human consciousness and cultural development. His work 'The Ever-Present Origin' explores the evolution of consciousness through various historical epochs. Gebser's theories focused on the relationship between language, culture, and perception, providing insights into the inherent structures of experience. He explored the integral nature of human existence, analyzing how different awareness modalities shape reality.

Continue Reading

Yootha Joyce

English actress in 'George and Mildred'
Born
August 20th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
August 24th, 1980 45 years ago — 53 years old

An English actress gained recognition for portraying Mildred Roper in the television series 'George and Mildred', a popular spin-off from the sitcom 'Man About the House'. Joyce's career began in theatre before transitioning to television and film. She appeared in various film roles during the 1960s and 1970s, including parts in 'The Family Way' and 'The Great St Trinian's Train Robbery'. Her performance in 'George and Mildred' remains the most prominent aspect of her career, airing from 1976 to 1979. Joyce's contributions to television comedy helped define the genre in the UK during that era.

Continue Reading

Al Roker

Weather anchor and TV personality
Born
August 20th, 1954 71 years ago

A prominent television personality and weather anchor, gained widespread recognition as the chief meteorologist for NBC News. Worked as a weather anchor on the 'Today' show for over 30 years, providing daily weather updates and engaging with the audience. Expanded career to include various television specials and authoring several books on cooking and the weather. Notable for hosting special events such as the annual Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City.

Continue Reading

Mufaddal Saifuddin

53rd Da'i al-Mutlaq of Fatimid Caliphate
Born
August 20th, 1946 79 years ago

Assumed leadership as the 53rd Da'i al-Mutlaq of the Dawoodi Bohra community in 2014. Focused on the spiritual and religious guidance of followers, emphasizing education, community service, and moral values. Oversaw the construction of various educational and community centers worldwide. Engaged in interfaith dialogue and social initiatives to promote harmony within and outside the community.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on July 31st

Alan Parker

Film director and screenwriter
Born
February 14th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
July 31st, 2020 5 years ago — 76 years old

A director, producer, and screenwriter from England, contributed significantly to the film industry. Directed acclaimed films such as 'Midnight Express', 'Fame', and 'The Commitments'. Also won several prestigious awards, including a BAFTA and Golden Globe. Parker's body of work spanned various genres, showcasing versatility and storytelling prowess.

Continue Reading

Bud Powell

Jazz pianist and composer
Born
September 27th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
July 31st, 1966 59 years ago — 41 years old

An influential figure in the development of bebop, significant contributions included innovative harmonies and improvisational techniques. Played a central role in the evolution of jazz piano through collaborations with prominent musicians. His original compositions, including 'Un Poco Loco' and 'Dance of the Infidels', have become jazz standards and are frequently performed. Affected by personal challenges, remained active in the jazz scene, maintaining a distinctive style that inspired generations of musicians.

Continue Reading

Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

French aviator and author of The Little Prince
Born
June 29th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
July 31st, 1944 81 years ago — 44 years old

A French aviator and author, this individual gained recognition for contributions to literature and aviation. As a pilot for Aéropostale, he endured challenging flights across remote regions, which inspired his writing. The most celebrated work, 'The Little Prince,' was published in 1943 and reflects themes of innocence and exploration. During World War II, he served in the Free French Air Force, where he undertook reconnaissance missions.

Continue Reading

Ismail Haniyeh

Hamas political leader and strategist
Died
July 31st, 2024 1 years ago — None years old

Born in Gaza, a prominent figure in Palestinian politics played a key role in the establishment and leadership of Hamas. After participating in various political activities, assumed leadership of Hamas in 2017. Focused on the organization's political and military strategies during several conflicts with Israel. Oversaw interactions with other Palestinian factions and international entities. Engaged in discussions related to the Palestinian territories and governance. Transitioned into leadership following the previous leaders' tenure, maintaining significant influence in regional politics. Continued to advocate for the organization's goals up until death in 2024.

Continue Reading

Baudouin

King of Belgium
Born
1930 95 years ago
Died
July 31st, 1993 32 years ago — 63 years old

Ascended to the throne in 1951, this monarch served as the King of Belgium until death in 1993. He played a pivotal role during a period of political and social change in Belgium, overseeing the country through decolonization and adapting to the new European landscape. His reign was marked by efforts to promote national unity amidst linguistic and regional divisions. The king was known for his commitment to social causes and his deep involvement in humanitarian initiatives.

Continue Reading

Hedley Verity

English cricketer and soldier
Born
May 18th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
July 31st, 1943 82 years ago — 38 years old

A prominent cricketer, garnered attention for exceptional left-arm spin bowling. Represented Yorkshire County Cricket Club from 1925 to 1939, becoming one of the leading bowlers of his era. Achieved remarkable success during his international career, playing for the English national team and participating in several Ashes series against Australia. Served as a soldier during World War II, being commissioned into the Green Howards regiment. His cricketing achievements remain celebrated even after his early death in 1943.

Continue Reading