Jimmy Dorsey
American bandleader and composer
Born on February 29, 1904, a prominent saxophonist and bandleader in the jazz genre. Rose to fame during the swing era, leading bands that became influential in popular music. Authored numerous arrangements and compositions, becoming a key figure in American big band music. The Dorsey Brothers Orchestra, co-led with brother Tommy Dorsey, gained major popularity. The band featured hit songs such as 'Amapola' and 'Tangerine'. In the late 1930s and 1940s, hosted radio shows that furthered the reach of swing music. Continued to perform and lead various bands into the 1950s.
Co-led the Dorsey Brothers Orchestra
Composed hit songs like 'Amapola'
Hosted popular radio shows during the 1940s
Other People Born on February 29th
Reece Prescod
Sprint athlete specializing in 100 meters
Born
February 29th, 1996 30 years ago
Competed in the 100 meters and represented Great Britain at international events. Achieved a personal best of 9.94 seconds in the 100 meters in 2018. Participated in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Secured the British Championship title, establishing a reputation in British athletics.
Continue ReadingCarlos Humberto Romero
President of El Salvador
Born
February 29th, 1924 102 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 93 years old
Served as the President of El Salvador from 1972 to 1977. His administration is marked by a focus on modernization and economic development amid increasing social unrest. Governed during a time of significant political turmoil, characterized by human rights violations and repression of opposition. Held power through a military-backed regime and faced criticism for the handling of dissent. His presidency ended with a coup led by leftist rebels, leading to further conflict in the country.
Continue ReadingReri Grist
American soprano and actress known for "Porgy and Bess"
Born
February 29th, 1932 94 years ago
A celebrated soprano and actress, this individual gained prominence in the world of opera and musical theater. Featured in productions such as "Porgy and Bess," showcased operatic talent combined with dramatic skill. Collaborated with notable orchestras and performed both nationally and internationally. Her performances spanned various prestigious venues and contributed significantly to the arts community.
Continue ReadingAileen Wuornos
Serial killer with notorious crimes
Born
February 29th, 1956 70 years ago
Died
2002 24 years ago — 46 years old
Aileen Wuornos was an American female serial killer who committed her crimes in Florida during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Convicted of murdering seven men, Wuornos claimed that the men had either assaulted her or attempted to assault her while she was working as a sex worker. Her trial garnered significant media attention, eventually leading to her being sentenced to death. The legal proceedings and her life story sparked discussions on issues such as mental health, sexism, and the justice system. In 2002, Wuornos was executed by lethal injection.
Continue ReadingPatricia A. McKillip
Fantasy author and World Fantasy Award winner
Born
February 29th, 1948 78 years ago
Died
2022 4 years ago — 74 years old
An American author specializing in fantasy literature. Authored numerous novels and short stories throughout a prolific career. Gained recognition for imaginative world-building and lyrical prose. Contributed to the genre with significant works such as 'The Riddle-Master of Hed' trilogy and 'Ombria in Shadow'. Received the World Fantasy Award for Lifetime Achievement in 2008, highlighting a successful literary career.
Continue ReadingJonathan Coleman
Radio and television host
Born
February 29th, 1956 70 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 65 years old
Born in 1956, a prominent figure in Australian media, significant contributions made in radio and television hosting. Started in radio and transitioned to television, gaining a wide audience. Hosted various programs and became a beloved personality across multiple platforms, especially noted for engaging audiences with a blend of humor and insightful commentary.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 12th
Nicole Brown Simpson
Restaurant employee and murder victim
Born
1968 58 years ago
Died
June 12th, 1994 32 years ago — 26 years old
Born in 1959, worked in various restaurants and was previously married to NFL player O. J. Simpson. Resided in Los Angeles, where she became a significant figure in a high-profile criminal case. Brown Simpson was found murdered in 1994, and the case garnered extensive media attention and public interest, leading to one of the most publicized trials in American history.
Continue ReadingAleksandr Deyneka
Russian painter and sculptor, wartime art
Born
May 20th, 1899 127 years ago
Died
June 12th, 1969 57 years ago — 70 years old
Born in 1899, this artist contributed significantly to Soviet art. Deyneka's career spanned various forms of painting and sculpture, focusing on themes of labor and heroism. His work during World War II included propaganda art that celebrated the Soviet military effort. He was associated with the artistic movement known as Socialist Realism, which aimed to depict the ideals of communism and promote Soviet values. Deyneka taught at various institutions and participated in numerous exhibitions throughout his career, leaving a lasting legacy in Russian visual arts.
Continue ReadingHermann Scherchen
Conductor and viola player in classical music
Born
June 21st, 1891 135 years ago
Died
June 12th, 1966 60 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent conductor and viola player, contributed significantly to classical music throughout his career. Conducted orchestras in numerous prestigious venues and festivals, promoting contemporary compositions alongside classical masterpieces. Established a reputation for innovative interpretations and dedication to the works of major composers. Alongside conducting, performed extensively as a viola soloist, showcasing talent and skill in both chamber and orchestral music.
Continue ReadingJon Hiseman
English drummer with Colosseum fame
Born
June 21st, 1944 82 years ago
Died
June 12th, 2018 8 years ago — 73 years old
A prominent drummer in the British progressive rock and jazz genres, contributions included founding the band Colosseum, which formed in 1968. The band released several notable albums, with 'Valentyne Suite' being a significant work that showcased innovative jazz-rock fusion. Hiseman also played with other influential musicians and bands throughout his career, including the groups Tempest and the band’s latter incarnation, Colosseum II. His style influenced many drummers in the jazz and rock scenes during the late twentieth century.
Continue ReadingTreat Williams
American actor in 'Hair' and 'Everwood'
Born
December 1st, 1951 74 years ago
Died
June 12th, 2023 3 years ago — 71 years old
An American actor became recognized for performances in film and television. Achieved prominence with the film 'Hair' in 1979, capturing attention for a musical role. Later starred in the television series 'Everwood', portraying a central character and receiving acclaim for the performance. Throughout his career, appeared in various films, including 'Deep Rising' and 'Prince of the City', showcasing versatility across genres. Contributed significantly to the entertainment industry with both comedic and dramatic roles, leaving a lasting legacy in the field.
Continue ReadingPrince Augustus William of Prussia
Prussian Prince and military leader
Born
August 9th, 1722 303 years ago
Died
June 12th, 1758 268 years ago — 35 years old
Born in 1722, a member of the House of Hohenzollern. Served as a military leader in the Prussian Army during the Seven Years' War. Played a significant role in several battles, including the Battle of Rossbach in 1757. Held the title of Governor of Magdeburg and contributed to the administrative efforts of the Prussian state during a time of military conflict. Engaged in various diplomatic missions supporting Prussian interests across Europe.
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