John Balance
English singer-songwriter and performer
An English singer-songwriter and musician, credited as a founding member of the experimental music group Coil. The group was influential in the avant-garde and industrial music scenes, blending music, multimedia, and performance art. Balance contributed to both vocals and instrumentation, and was instrumental in defining the sound of Coil. Utilized various styles across the discography, with a focus on themes of spirituality, sexuality, and the occult. Released albums such as 'Scatology' and 'Horse Rotorvator'. The work of the group is often categorized as dark ambient and noise music.
Co-founded the music group Coil
Released influential albums like 'Scatology'
Explored themes of spirituality and the occult
Other People Born on February 16th
Zhang Jike
Table Tennis Champion and Olympic Gold Medalist
Born
February 16th, 1988 37 years ago
A professional table tennis player earned acclaim in the sport through numerous achievements. Won the Men's Singles title at the World Table Tennis Championships in 2011 and 2013. Clinched the gold medal in Men's Singles at the 2012 London Olympics. Achieved a Grand Slam in table tennis, winning the World Cup, World Championships, and Olympic Games.
Continue ReadingLeVar Burton
Actor from Reading Rainbow and Star Trek
Born
February 16th, 1957 68 years ago
An American actor, director, and producer achieved recognition through memorable roles on television and in film. Gained widespread acclaim for the role of Kunta Kinte in the miniseries Roots. Served as the host of the PBS children's series Reading Rainbow for over two decades, fostering a love of reading among children. Also portrayed Lt. Commander Geordi La Forge in the science fiction series Star Trek: The Next Generation. In addition to acting, directed several episodes of television series and films, contributing to the creative arts.
Continue ReadingLupe Fiasco
American rapper and entrepreneur
Born
February 16th, 1982 43 years ago
Born in Chicago, a prominent rapper and entrepreneur emerged in the mid-2000s. Released the debut album 'Food & Liquor' in 2006, which gained critical acclaim and included hit singles like 'Kick, Push'. Followed up with the album 'The Cool' in 2007, further establishing a unique style that incorporated social and political themes. Received several Grammy Awards for his work, including Best Urban/Alternative Performance for 'Daydreamin'. Known for blending intricate lyricism with poignant commentary on issues such as poverty and violence. Collaborated with various artists across different genres and continued to release music throughout the 2010s and beyond.
Continue ReadingCarl Icahn
Investor and Corporate Raider
Born
February 16th, 1936 89 years ago
An American businessman and investor, focused on leveraged buyouts and corporate activism. Founded Icahn Enterprises in 1987, leading a variety of high-profile investments across multiple industries. Played a significant role in challenging corporate governance practices and promoting shareholder rights. Engaged in numerous battles for control of companies, including Apple and Xerox, affecting management strategies and business operations. Operated as a prominent figure in the investment landscape, widely acknowledged for an aggressive investment approach and a strategic understanding of market dynamics.
Continue ReadingKyo
Singer-songwriter and producer, L'Arc-en-Ciel
Born
February 16th, 1976 49 years ago
A prominent singer-songwriter and producer, this individual gained recognition as the lead vocalist of the band L'Arc-en-Ciel. The band formed in 1991 and achieved substantial success in the Japanese rock scene. In addition to work with L'Arc-en-Ciel, this individual has pursued a solo career, releasing multiple albums and collaborating with various artists across genres. The artist's work has contributed to the visibility of Japanese rock music internationally, influencing many artists within the genre.
Continue ReadingBebeto
Brazilian footballer and manager
Born
February 16th, 1964 61 years ago
A Brazilian footballer and manager, gained prominence in the 1990s. Played as a forward and achieved significant success with the national team. Was part of the Brazil squad that won the 1994 FIFA World Cup in the United States. Enjoyed a successful club career with teams such as Vasco da Gama, Flamengo, and Deportivo La Coruna. Transitioned into coaching after retirement from playing, taking on various managerial roles.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 13th
Camille Pissarro
Danish-French Impressionist painter
Born
July 10th, 1830 195 years ago
Died
November 13th, 1903 122 years ago — 73 years old
Born in 1830, a significant figure in the Impressionist and Post-Impressionist movements, contributed to the development of modern art. Worked alongside other prominent artists like Claude Monet and Paul Cézanne. Focused on rural and urban life, capturing the essence of everyday moments with an emphasis on light and color. Exhibited works in the first Impressionist exhibition in 1874 and was instrumental in the establishment of the movement. Spent time in various locations including France and the Caribbean, which influenced the themes and techniques utilized in his art.
Continue ReadingOlga Bergholz
Russian poet and author of wartime poetry
Born
May 16th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
November 13th, 1975 50 years ago — 65 years old
Born in 1910, a significant literary figure in 20th century Russia, particularly noted for poetry written during World War II. Began publishing in the 1930s and gained prominence for works reflecting the experiences of wartime. Served as a radio broadcaster during the Siege of Leningrad, where her broadcasts offered hope and encouragement. Continued to write after the war, focusing on themes of love, loss, and the human experience. Authored several poetry collections and received recognition in the Soviet literary circles.
Continue ReadingCornelius Warmerdam
Pole Vaulter and Olympic Coach
Born
June 22nd, 1915 110 years ago
Died
November 13th, 2001 24 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent figure in American athletics, this individual excelled in pole vaulting during the 1930s. Achieved notable success at the NCAA Championships, securing titles in 1936 and 1937. Represented the United States at the 1936 Berlin Olympics, marking a significant achievement for the sport. Transitioned into coaching, contributing to the development of future pole vaulters and enhancing techniques in the discipline.
Continue ReadingBill Doggett
Pianist and composer of R&B music
Born
February 16th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
November 13th, 1996 29 years ago — 80 years old
A pianist and composer gained recognition for contributions to rhythm and blues music. Played with various orchestras and bands, including the iconic swing era ensemble of Count Basie. Composed the song "Honky Tonk," which became a significant hit in the 1950s and cemented a lasting legacy in the genre. Later reinvented the sound of the electric organ, popularizing its use in popular music throughout the 1960s.
Continue ReadingAntal Doráti
Conductor known for orchestral leadership
Born
April 9th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
November 13th, 1988 37 years ago — 82 years old
Born in Hungary, Antal Doráti became a prominent conductor and composer, contributing significantly to the world of classical music. His career spanned several decades, during which he led renowned orchestras, including the London Symphony Orchestra and the Minneapolis Symphony Orchestra. Doráti also served as music director for various prestigious ensembles, creating a legacy of innovative interpretations of classical repertoires. His contributions to the recording industry include several acclaimed discographies, showcasing works by composers such as Stravinsky and Bartók. Renowned for his leadership style and musical vision, Doráti shaped the performances and interpretations of orchestras he conducted, influencing the classical music landscape.
Continue ReadingThomas M. Foglietta
American diplomat, Ambassador to Italy
Born
December 3rd, 1928 97 years ago
Died
November 13th, 2004 21 years ago — 75 years old
Served as the United States Ambassador to Italy from 1993 to 1997. Held the position of a Philadelphia city councilman prior to his ambassadorship. Taught at the University of Pennsylvania and continued involvement in various community and educational initiatives.
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