Joe Williams

Jazz singer with influential recordings

Joe Williams - Jazz singer with influential recordings
Born

December 12th, 1918
106 years ago

Died

March 29th, 1999
26 years ago — 80 years old

Category

Performers & Entertainers

Country

United States

Links & References

A prominent American jazz singer, achieved significant recognition during the 20th century. Gained popularity for performances with big bands and released numerous albums. Collaborated with jazz giants such as Count Basie and played a key role in popularizing jazz as a mainstream genre. His warm baritone voice contributed to a unique style that blended jazz with blues and traditional standards. Over a career spanning several decades, engaged in both live performances and recording sessions, earning accolades for vocal ability and musicianship. The impact on the jazz scene continued well into the 21st century, showcasing the enduring legacy of contributions to the genre.

Recording the album 'Every Day I Have the Blues'

Performing with Count Basie Orchestra

Other People Born on December 12th

Cathy Rigby

Olympic gymnast and actress
Born
December 12th, 1952 72 years ago

Competed in gymnastics at the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City, achieving recognition as one of the top female gymnasts of her time. Rigby transitioned to a successful career in entertainment, particularly in musical theater, where she starred in productions such as 'Peter Pan'. She received accolades for her performances and continued to be involved in gymnastics through coaching and commentary, promoting the sport among young athletes.

Continue Reading

Bob Pettit

Basketball player and coach, MVP winner
Born
December 12th, 1932 92 years ago

This individual was a professional basketball player and coach. Played for the St. Louis Hawks in the NBA from 1954 to 1965. Achieved significant recognition during career, winning the NBA Most Valuable Player Award twice in 1956 and 1957. After retiring as a player, transitioned to coaching and contributed to the development of basketball at various educational institutions. Had a successful career as a player, becoming one of the top scorers in NBA history.

Continue Reading

Connie Francis

Singer and actress with hit songs
Born
December 12th, 1937 87 years ago

A prominent singer and actress, gained fame in the late 1950s and early 1960s. Achieved significant chart success with hit songs such as 'Where the Boys Are,' 'Who’s Sorry Now,' and 'Lipstick on Your Collar.' Contributed to popular music with a distinctive pop sound. Appeared in films such as 'Where the Boys Are,' which showcased her talents both as a performer and actress. Her music career includes multiple gold records and numerous charted singles across different genres, including pop and traditional standards. Throughout the career, made contributions to the recording industry and received recognition for achievements in entertainment.

Continue Reading

Heiner Flassbeck

Economist and academic focusing on macroeconomics
Born
December 12th, 1950 74 years ago

Born in 1950, this economist specializes in macroeconomic theory and policy. He served as the Chief Economist at the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), working on issues related to international trade and development. This individual also held positions in the German Ministry of Finance, advising on economic strategy. As an academic, this economist authored several works on economic policies, offering insights into economic crises and growth strategies. Explorations in economic globalization and labor market dynamics characterized much of the professional focus.

Continue Reading

Bernard Lagat

Kenyan-American middle-distance runner
Born
December 12th, 1974 50 years ago

A celebrated middle-distance runner, this individual represented the United States in track and field events. Competing primarily in the 1500 meters, the athlete achieved significant success in international competitions. At the 2000 Sydney Olympics, a bronze medal was earned in the 1500 meters. The individual claimed multiple titles at the World Championships, including two gold medals in the 1500 meters in 1999 and 2001. Later, transitioned to longer events, securing a silver medal in the 5000 meters at the 2005 World Championships and setting American records in distances ranging from 1500 meters to 5000 meters.

Continue Reading

Nina Kolarič

Slovenian long jumper Olympic athlete
Born
December 12th, 1986 38 years ago

Competed in long jump events representing Slovenia. Achieved significant success on the international athletic stage. Participated in the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Secured a bronze medal at the 2007 European Athletics Indoor Championships.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on March 29th

Charles-Valentin Alkan

Pianist and composer of piano works
Born
November 30th, 1813 211 years ago
Died
March 29th, 1888 137 years ago — 74 years old

A prominent 19th-century pianist and composer, acclaimed for significant contributions to piano literature. Composed numerous works that showcased the technical capabilities of the instrument. Gained recognition for compositions such as 'Concerto for Solo Piano' and 'Symphonie for Solo Piano'. Alkan was part of the Parisian music scene, where he performed and taught during his career, influencing future generations of pianists and composers.

Continue Reading

John Kerin

Australian politician and minister
Born
November 21st, 1937 87 years ago
Died
March 29th, 2023 2 years ago — 85 years old

Served as a member of the Australian House of Representatives from 1974 to 1990, representing the electoral division of Dickson. Held various ministerial roles, including Minister for Primary Industries and Energy from 1983 to 1984. Contributed to policy development in agriculture and regional development. Facilitated agricultural research initiatives and worked on issues related to rural health and education. Played a significant role in environmental conservation efforts during the time in office.

Continue Reading

Joyce Cary

Anglo-Irish novelist and writer
Born
December 7th, 1888 136 years ago
Died
March 29th, 1957 68 years ago — 68 years old

An Anglo-Irish novelist, contributions spanned several notable works that explored themes of society and personal relationships. Career included writing successful novels that were well regarded in the literary community. Major works include 'The Horse's Mouth', which was adapted into a film, and 'Mister Johnson', a novel set in colonial Nigeria that gained significant attention. Cary's literary style displayed a keen observation of human nature and complex characterizations.

Continue Reading

Eric Williams

Trinidadian historian and 1st Prime Minister
Born
September 25th, 1911 113 years ago
Died
March 29th, 1981 44 years ago — 69 years old

A prominent historian and politician, served as the first Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago from 1962 until 1981. Played a crucial role in the independence movement and helped shape the nation’s post-colonial framework. Authored several works on Caribbean history, including 'Capitalism and Slavery', which examined the economic implications of slavery and colonialism in the Caribbean. His leadership was marked by efforts to nationalize various industries and enhance education.

Continue Reading

William Wallace Denslow

Illustrator of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz
Born
1856 169 years ago
Died
March 29th, 1915 110 years ago — 59 years old

An American illustrator and caricaturist, primarily recognized for the beloved illustrations in L. Frank Baum's 'The Wonderful Wizard of Oz.' Denslow's vibrant and imaginative artwork greatly contributed to the book's popularity and charm. In addition to 'The Wonderful Wizard of Oz,' he created illustrations for other works, including 'The Royal Book of Oz' and 'Denslow's Mother Goose.' His style combined whimsical elements with bold colors, making a lasting impression on children's literature. Throughout his career, Denslow worked on various projects, including advertising illustrations and theatrical productions, establishing himself as a prominent figure in American illustration during the early 20th century.

Continue Reading

Alexander Obolensky

Rugby player and WWII pilot
Born
February 17th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
March 29th, 1940 85 years ago — 24 years old

Played rugby for England and made a significant contribution during World War II as a pilot. Achieved recognition for his performance in rugby union matches, notably in the 1939 match against Wales, where he scored two tries. His athletic career was cut short by the war, during which he served in the Royal Air Force and lost his life during a mission in 1943.

Continue Reading