Joe Cocker
English singer-songwriter with iconic vocals
Emerging in the 1960s, this singer-songwriter gained prominence with a distinctive voice and passionate performances. Breakthrough came with a cover of 'With a Little Help from My Friends,' which led to a successful career in music. Released several acclaimed albums, including 'Mad Dogs & Englishmen' and 'Joe Cocker!' Collaborated with notable artists and participated in significant music festivals, including Woodstock. His rendition of 'You Are So Beautiful' became enduringly popular, showcasing his emotional delivery. Continued to perform live internationally until later years, earning respect as a compelling live performer.
Released 'With a Little Help from My Friends'
Performed at Woodstock
Recorded 'You Are So Beautiful'
Other People Born on May 20th
Henry Bolte
Politician and Premier of Victoria
Born
May 20th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1990 35 years ago — 81 years old
Served as the 38th Premier of Victoria from 1955 to 1972, holding office for a notable 17 years. Led the Victorian Liberal Party and promoted extensive economic development and infrastructure projects. Played a significant role in shaping the state's policies during a period of growth and change.
Continue ReadingTeodoro Fernández
Peruvian footballer and top goal scorer
Born
May 20th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
1996 29 years ago — 83 years old
Played as a forward in professional football. Primarily represented Alianza Lima during the 1930s and 1940s. Achieved success in the Peruvian league, becoming one of its all-time leading scorers. Represented Peru in international competitions, including the Copa América, contributing significantly to the team's performance.
Continue ReadingGeorge Gobel
American actor and comedian
Born
May 20th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
February 24th, 1991 34 years ago — 71 years old
Achieved prominence in the entertainment industry, particularly through television and film in the mid-20th century. Gained a significant audience with the television show 'The George Gobel Show', which aired from 1954 to 1955. Featured in movies such as 'The Seven Little Foys', showcasing comedic talent. Received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for contributions to television.
Continue ReadingPedro María de Anaya
Mexican soldier and President (1847-1848)
Born
May 20th, 1795 230 years ago
Died
March 21st, 1854 171 years ago — 58 years old
Served as a soldier in the Mexican-American War and held the position of President of Mexico from 1847 to 1848. During presidency, faced challenges arising from the war and internal political instability. Resigned amid pressures from both foreign and domestic factions. His government oversaw significant territorial losses for Mexico as a result of the war with the United States.
Continue ReadingBobby Murcer
Baseball player and sportscaster
Born
May 20th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
July 12th, 2008 17 years ago — 62 years old
A baseball player, coach, and sportscaster, the individual played primarily for the New York Yankees. Career in Major League Baseball spanned 17 seasons, debuting in 1965. As an outfielder, achieved 1,400 hits, 175 home runs, and 1,000 runs batted in. Transitioned to sportscasting after retirement, becoming a prominent Yankees broadcaster and earning recognition in the field.
Continue ReadingJane Parker-Smith
English organist and composer
Born
May 20th, 1950 75 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 70 years old
An influential English organist and composer, contributed significantly to the world of organ music. Served as a consultant for various churches and music organizations, focusing on the performance and promotion of organ repertoire. Performed at notable venues across the UK and internationally, showcasing both classical and contemporary works. Recorded numerous albums that feature a range of compositions, enhancing accessibility to organ music. Engaged in educational initiatives to inspire future generations of organists and promote the rich tradition of organ music.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 22nd
Herman Sikumbang
Indonesian guitarist from Seventeen band
Died
December 22nd, 2018 7 years ago — None years old
An Indonesian guitarist, played with the band Seventeen. Achieved popularity through performances and albums, contributing to the Indonesian music scene. Was active in creating music that resonated with many fans. Tragically lost life during the 2018 Sunda Strait tsunami while performing at a concert.
Continue ReadingMehmed III
Ottoman Sultan during a significant reign
Born
May 26th, 1566 459 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1603 422 years ago — 37 years old
Ruled the Ottoman Empire from 1595 to 1603, overseeing a period marked by military campaigns and cultural developments. Ascended to the throne at a young age, faced challenges including internal strife and external threats. Continued conflicts with the Habsburgs and Safavids characterized the era, leading to notable battles such as the Long Turkish War. Patronized arts and architecture, contributing to the empire's rich cultural heritage. Death in 1603 led to the succession of his son, Ahmed I.
Continue ReadingChristine Cavanaugh
Voice artist in animation and video games
Born
August 16th, 1963 62 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 2014 11 years ago — 51 years old
A prominent voice artist, contributed to various animated series and video games during a successful career. Gained recognition for distinct voice work in popular characters, including Dexter from 'Dexter's Laboratory' and Babe in the film 'Babe'. Worked on numerous other projects, showcasing versatility across different media. Cavanaugh's unique vocal skills left a lasting imprint in animation, entertaining audiences of all ages.
Continue ReadingRichard von Krafft-Ebing
Psychologist and author of 'Psychopathia Sexualis'
Born
August 14th, 1840 185 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1902 123 years ago — 62 years old
A psychologist and author contributed to the understanding of sexual psychology through extensive research and writing. Authored 'Psychopathia Sexualis', a pioneering work analyzing sexual anomalies and behaviors. This work served as a foundational text in sexology, influencing both academic and medical fields. Engaged in clinical practices, providing insights into sexual disorders during a time of limited discussion on the subject. Established a framework for the classification and understanding of sexual deviance, which shaped future discussions in psychology and psychiatry.
Continue ReadingHermann Weingärtner
German gymnast and Olympic champion
Born
August 27th, 1864 161 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1919 106 years ago — 55 years old
Competed in artistic gymnastics during the late 19th century. Participated in the 1896 Summer Olympics in Athens, where gymnastics was featured as a new sport. Achieved significant success by winning three medals, including a gold in the team event, contributing to the early prominence of gymnastics in Olympic history.
Continue ReadingJoe Strummer
Musician and lead vocalist of The Clash
Born
August 21st, 1952 73 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 2002 23 years ago — 50 years old
A prominent musician and songwriter rose to fame as the lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist of the punk rock band The Clash. The band emerged in the late 1970s and played a significant role in the punk rock movement. The Clash released influential albums such as 'London Calling', which received critical acclaim and is often cited among the greatest albums in rock history. Strummer also pursued a solo career and collaborated with various artists. His work encompassed themes of social justice and political activism, reflected in both music and public statements. Strummer's contributions continue to influence musicians and artists worldwide.
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