John Blackwell

R&B, funk, and jazz drummer

John Blackwell - R&B, funk, and jazz drummer
Born

1973
52 years ago

Died

July 4th, 2017
7 years ago — 44 years old

Category

Performers & Entertainers

Country

United States

Links & References

An accomplished American drummer, contributed to the genres of R&B, funk, and jazz. Notable for work with Prince and the New Power Generation, as well as collaborations with artists such as Justin Timberlake and Sheila E. Gained recognition for energetic live performances and technical skill. His drumming style blended various influences, making significant contributions to albums and live shows. Continued to influence drummers across genres until his passing in 2017.

Played drums for Prince and the New Power Generation

Collaborated with Justin Timberlake

Performed with Sheila E.

Other People Who Died on July 4th

Pier Giorgio Frassati

Italian activist and beatified figure
Born
April 6th, 1901 123 years ago
Died
July 4th, 1926 98 years ago — 25 years old

Born in Italy, dedicated life to social justice and youth engagement. Involved with the Catholic Action movement, emphasizing the need for spiritual growth alongside social responsibility. Actively served the marginalized and the poor in society. His compassion and commitment led to significant outreach efforts among the underprivileged. Passed away at a young age, but left a lasting legacy. Beatified by the Catholic Church in 1990, recognized for his deep faith and service to others.

Continue Reading

John Frith

English priest and martyr, writer
Born
1503 522 years ago
Died
July 4th, 1533 491 years ago — 30 years old

A prominent English priest and writer, contributed significantly to religious discourse during the Reformation. Advocated for reform in the Catholic Church and opposed certain doctrines. Imprisoned for his beliefs and writings, facing trial for heresy. Executed in 1533, becoming a martyr for his faith. His works included pamphlets and treatises promoting Protestant ideology, significantly influencing reformist thought in England.

Continue Reading

Eric Sykes

British actor and comedian from 'The Eric Sykes Show'
Born
May 4th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
July 4th, 2012 12 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent British actor and comedian, contributed significantly to television and film. Sykes had a successful career that spanned several decades, beginning in the 1940s. Gained fame for unique comedic style and memorable performances. Created and starred in 'The Eric Sykes Show', which became a staple of British television. Showcased talent in various roles, particularly in sitcoms and sketch comedy. Also appeared in notable films such as 'The Others' and 'Raising Hitler'. Sykes received recognition for contributions to comedy, including several awards.

Continue Reading

Oscar Zariski

Mathematician and academic
Born
April 24th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
July 4th, 1986 38 years ago — 87 years old

Contributed significantly to algebraic geometry and commutative algebra. Developed Zariski topology and Zariski's lemma, which became fundamental in the field. Worked at several notable institutions, including Johns Hopkins University. Authored important texts on algebraic geometry, influencing generations of mathematicians.

Continue Reading

Victor Chang

Surgeon and pioneer in heart surgery
Born
November 21st, 1936 88 years ago
Died
July 4th, 1991 33 years ago — 54 years old

A prominent surgeon, contributions included advancements in cardiac surgery and the development of the artificial heart valve. Became a leader in heart transplantation, establishing protocols that significantly improved patient outcomes. Held the position of Director of the Cardiothoracic Unit at St. Vincent's Hospital in Sydney. Engaged in education and advocacy for medical research and treatment in Australia and internationally.

Continue Reading

Philippe de Monte

Flemish composer with significant contributions
Born
1521 504 years ago
Died
July 4th, 1603 421 years ago — 82 years old

A prominent composer and educator in the late Renaissance period, this individual played a pivotal role in the development of sacred and secular music. Based in various European courts, he contributed an extensive catalog of vocal music, particularly choral works. His compositions included motets, madrigals, and masses, largely written for a cappella choir and characterized by intricate counterpoint. The composer served as a key figure in the formation of the musical style that defined the late 16th century, influencing both contemporaries and subsequent generations. Educational efforts included teachings that helped to propagate and establish new compositions across the continent.

Continue Reading