Jimmy Witherspoon
Jump blues singer with hit 'Ain't Nobody's Business'
Born in 1920, this American jump blues singer gained recognition in the 1940s and 1950s. With a powerful voice and emotive delivery, this artist blended genres and influenced later musicians. Career highlights included performances at major venues and recordings that showcased a unique vocal style. A notable collaboration with prominent jazz musicians helped solidify a place in the music world. The singer's music addressed themes of love, heartache, and everyday life.
Released the hit song 'Ain't Nobody's Business'
Worked with jazz legends like Duke Ellington
Performed at the Apollo Theater
Other People Born on August 8th
Casey Cott
American actor from 'Riverdale'
Born
August 8th, 1992 33 years ago
An actor gained recognition for portraying Kevin Keller in the television series 'Riverdale'. The series is a modern adaptation of the Archie Comics characters and premiered in 2017. The role involved navigating themes of identity and social issues within a dramatic narrative. Prior to this achievement, participated in theater productions and earned a degree in acting from the Carnegie Mellon School of Drama. The multifaceted performances showcased versatility across various genres.
Continue ReadingFélix Auger-Aliassime
Canadian tennis player, US Open quarterfinalist
Born
August 8th, 2000 25 years ago
An accomplished tennis player achieved significant milestones in the ATP circuit. Began playing tennis at an early age and quickly emerged as a promising talent. Reached the quarterfinals of the US Open in 2021, marking the best performance at a Grand Slam tournament. Won multiple ATP titles and consistently ranked among the top players globally. Demonstrated strong performances in various international competitions and represented Canada in the Davis Cup.
Continue ReadingNélson Oliveira
Portuguese footballer, notable striker
Born
August 8th, 1991 34 years ago
Born in 1991, a Portuguese footballer primarily played as a striker. Developed through the youth system of Benfica and debuted in the Primeira Liga. Represented clubs such as Deportivo de La Coruña and Nottingham Forest, along with national representation for Portugal. Participated in the UEFA Euro 2016, contributing to Portugal's victory in the tournament. Known for goal-scoring ability and versatility in attacking roles.
Continue ReadingChris Eubank
Professional boxer, WBO champion
Born
August 8th, 1966 59 years ago
Born in 1966, this boxer competed in the middleweight and super middleweight divisions. He won the WBO middleweight title and defended it multiple times, establishing a reputation for his unique style and charisma. Notable for intense rivalries with fellow boxers, significant bouts included contests against Nigel Benn and Joe Calzaghe. Eubank retired with an impressive record, contributing to the sport's popularity.
Continue ReadingCameron Payne
Basketball player for Oklahoma City Thunder
Born
August 8th, 1994 31 years ago
Professional basketball player, primarily played as a point guard in the NBA. Drafted 14th overall in the 2015 NBA Draft by the Oklahoma City Thunder. During tenure with the Thunder, contributed to the team's playoff runs. Later played for the Chicago Bulls, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Phoenix Suns, where playoff participation continued. Attended Murray State University, leading the team to significant achievements in college basketball.
Continue ReadingJohn Hudek
Baseball player and coach with Atlanta Braves
Born
August 8th, 1966 59 years ago
Played Major League Baseball as a pitcher, debuting in 1994. Represented the Houston Astros, Tampa Bay Devil Rays, and Atlanta Braves throughout a career spanning several seasons. Transitioned into coaching roles following retirement, contributing to player development. Recognized for significant experience in both playing and instructing the game.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 18th
Domitian
Roman Emperor from 81 to 96 AD
Born
October 24th, 51 1974 years ago
Died
September 18th, 96 1929 years ago — 44 years old
Ruled as Emperor of Rome from 81 AD until assassination in 96 AD. Focused on consolidating power and expanding the empire's borders. Implemented extensive building projects, including the completion of the Colosseum and the construction of new temples. Fostered a strong military presence and engaged in wars with various tribes in Britain and Germany. Known for initiating a period of relative stability and prosperity, alongside significant administrative reforms and financial initiatives.
Continue ReadingHippolyte Fizeau
French physicist and academic
Born
September 23rd, 1819 206 years ago
Died
September 18th, 1896 129 years ago — 76 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of physics in the 19th century. Developed innovative methods for measuring the speed of light and proposed the Fizeau formula for calculating the speed of light in a medium. Conducted experiments that solidified the wave theory of light. Fizeau also served as a professor of physics and played a major role in the advancement of scientific education in France.
Continue ReadingSusan La Flesche Picotte
Native American physician and reformer
Born
June 17th, 1865 161 years ago
Died
September 18th, 1915 110 years ago — 50 years old
The first Native American woman to earn a medical degree, trained at the Woman's Medical College of Pennsylvania. Established a private practice in Nebraska, focusing on healthcare for Native American communities. Advocated for improved health services and education for her people. Instrumental in public health reforms and worked to combat tuberculosis in her community.
Continue ReadingMatthew Prior
Poet and British Ambassador to France
Born
July 21st, 1664 361 years ago
Died
September 18th, 1721 304 years ago — 57 years old
Born in 1664, a prominent English poet and diplomat, served as the British Ambassador to France. Education was completed at Westminster School and St John's College, Cambridge. Early works included poems such as 'The Solomon' and 'Alma,' which showcased a blend of satire and lyricism. Gained recognition for contributions to the literary world and held political roles during the reign of Queen Anne. Engaged in diplomatic efforts, notably during the negotiations that led to the Treaty of Utrecht in 1713. Involved in the literary circles of his time and befriended influential writers and thinkers.
Continue ReadingBob Hayes
Sprinter and NFL football player
Born
December 20th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
September 18th, 2002 23 years ago — 59 years old
Achieved Olympic success in sprinting and professional accolades in American football. Won a gold medal in the 100 meters at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics and played for the Dallas Cowboys in the NFL. Contributed to the Cowboys' victory in Super Bowl VI and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2009. Also excelled in college football at Florida A&M University.
Continue ReadingFrank Morgan
American actor in 'The Wizard of Oz'
Born
June 1st, 1890 136 years ago
Died
September 18th, 1949 76 years ago — 59 years old
An American actor born in 1890, recognized for roles in early Hollywood films. Gained prominence with significant performances in the 1939 film 'The Wizard of Oz' as the Wizard. Had a prolific career in theatre and film during the 1920s to the 1950s. Played a variety of characters in comedies and dramas, showcasing a talent for both humor and pathos. His contributions to the film industry included various roles in classic films and stage productions.
Continue Reading