Joe Hunter
American pianist and Motown musician
Born
1927
99 years ago
Died
Category
Artists & Creatives
Country
United States
Links & References
An American pianist contributed significantly to the Motown sound during the 1960s. Hunter played piano on numerous classic recordings for legendary artists. His work helped define the genre and shaped the music landscape of the time.
Performed on hits by artists like Marvin Gaye and The Supremes
Part of the Motown house band, The Funk Brothers
Played on songs such as 'Ain't No Mountain High Enough'
Worked extensively in studio sessions throughout the 1960s
Other People Who Died on February 2nd
Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina
Composer of sacred choral music
Born
1525 501 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1594 432 years ago — 69 years old
An Italian composer of the Renaissance period, focused on sacred music. Established a style that influenced the development of choral music. Served as the music director at various churches in Italy and educated many students in composition. The body of work includes various masses, motets, and hymns, with a clear focus on polyphonic texture and clarity of text. Contributed to the formulation of the canon of church music and is often associated with the development of the Roman School of composition.
Continue ReadingDmitri Mendeleev
Chemist best known for the Periodic Table
Born
February 8th, 1834 191 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1907 119 years ago — 72 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of chemistry with the formulation of the Periodic Law and the creation of the Periodic Table of Elements. Mendeleev organized elements based on atomic mass and properties, predicting the existence and properties of several yet-to-be-discovered elements. Worked extensively in the areas of physical chemistry and chemical analysis. Also engaged in teaching and authored several academic texts, elevating the standard of chemical education in Russia.
Continue ReadingGerd Albrecht
German conductor associated with opera
Born
1935 91 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 2014 12 years ago — 79 years old
A conductor who led numerous prestigious orchestras and opera companies across Europe and beyond. Albrecht served as music director for the Hamburg State Opera and conducted the Berlin Philharmonic. He gained recognition for innovative interpretations of well-known works and championed contemporary compositions. Throughout his career, he made significant contributions to the classical music scene and was involved in various international music festivals.
Continue ReadingCarlo Acton
Italian pianist and composer, notable works
Born
August 25th, 1829 196 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1909 117 years ago — 79 years old
A prominent pianist and composer, contributed significantly to music in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Acton was active in various musical circles and displayed exceptional talent as a performer. His compositions reflect a blend of classical and contemporary styles of his time. Renowned for performances that captured audiences, he produced works that remain important in classical music repertoires. His influence extended through concert stages across Italy, where he collaborated with other musicians and showcased original compositions. Acton's legacy includes both performance excellence and contributions to musical literature, enriching the cultural landscape.
Continue ReadingArnold Nordmeyer
New Zealand politician and minister
Born
February 7th, 1901 125 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1989 37 years ago — 87 years old
Served as the 30th New Zealand Minister of Finance. Held office from 1957 to 1960, contributing to significant changes in fiscal and social policy. Played a vital role in the development of the Welfare State in New Zealand. Represented the Wellington electorate of Island Bay and was a member of the Labour Party. Participated in numerous parliamentary debates and advocated for progressive policies during tenure.
Continue ReadingBruno
Duke of Saxony
Died
February 2nd, 880 1146 years ago — None years old
Ruled as duke of Saxony and played a significant role in the Carolingian Empire under Charlemagne. Built relationships with the Frankish rulers and contributed to the Christianization efforts in the region. Established territories that would later be central to the development of the Holy Roman Empire. Under leadership, Saxony became a pivotal part of early medieval European politics and culture.
Continue Reading