John Lodge
Musician and bass player with The Moody Blues
English singer-songwriter and bass player achieved prominence as a member of The Moody Blues. The band gained international recognition for pioneering orchestral rock and blending rock with classical elements. Key albums include 'Days of Future Passed,' which introduced the concept album format to popular music, and 'In Search of the Lost Chord.' Additionally involved in solo projects, releasing several albums that showcased personal musical style. Worked as a producer, contributing to the production of various records. Remains an influential figure in the music industry, particularly in rock and progressive genres.
Played bass and contributed vocals for The Moody Blues
Released the album 'Natural Avenue' in 1977
Other People Born on July 20th
Pop Smoke
Rapper and songwriter, 'Shoot for the Stars' album
Born
July 20th, 1999 26 years ago
Died
February 19th, 2020 5 years ago — 20 years old
Rapper and songwriter gained prominence in the hip-hop scene with the release of the mixtapes 'Meet the Woo' and 'Meet the Woo 2'. The debut studio album, 'Shoot for the Stars Aim for the Moon', released posthumously, reached number one on the Billboard 200 chart. Popular tracks included 'Welcome to the Party' and 'Dior', which contributed to a resurgence of the Brooklyn drill music genre. Collaborated with artists like Travis Scott and Quavo, expanding musical horizons. His contribution to the genre is marked by a blend of aggressive lyrics and melodic hooks.
Continue ReadingAdrian Păunescu
Romanian poet and politician
Born
July 20th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
November 5th, 2010 15 years ago — 67 years old
A prominent Romanian poet, journalist, and politician. Born in 1943, focused on literature and social issues through poetry. Gained recognition for addressing political themes and promoting a sense of national identity. Involved with the Romanian Communist Party and held various political offices, shaping literary and cultural discourse during a tumultuous period. Founded the 'Flacăra' Cultural Association, promoting poetry and music across Romania. His work often sparked debates on censorship and artistic freedom, reflecting the complexities of Romanian society.
Continue ReadingRoger Hunt
English footballer, 1966 World Cup winner
Born
July 20th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 83 years old
An English footballer played as a forward primarily for Liverpool Football Club. Made significant contributions to the club's success during the 1960s, helping win two First Division titles and one FA Cup. Achieved remarkable success with the England national team, featuring prominently in the 1966 FIFA World Cup, culminating in a victory that secured England's only World Cup title to date. Renowned for his goal-scoring ability, Hunt remains one of Liverpool's all-time leading scorers, solidifying his legacy in English football history.
Continue ReadingPetrarch
Italian poet and scholar, Laura's muse
Born
July 20th, 1304 721 years ago
Died
July 19th, 1374 651 years ago — 69 years old
Born in 1304, this poet and scholar became a central figure in Renaissance humanism. He is often referred to as the 'father of Humanism' due to his influential writings which revived interest in classical antiquity. His sonnets, especially those dedicated to Laura, are notable for their exploration of love and beauty. His work laid the groundwork for the development of poetry in the Italian language and inspired many subsequent writers, including Shakespeare. Additionally, he contributed to the study of Latin and classical literature, and he was an early advocate for the notion of poetry as a reflection of personal experience.
Continue ReadingOtto Schily
German politician and Minister of the Interior
Born
July 20th, 1932 93 years ago
Schily served as the German Minister of the Interior from 1998 to 2005. He was a prominent member of the Social Democratic Party of Germany (SPD). His tenure was marked by his involvement in various domestic policies and law enforcement reforms. Prior to his ministerial role, he was active in politics and law throughout the 1980s and 1990s. Schily played a significant role in shaping Germany's post-reunification security policies
Continue ReadingAlistair MacLeod
Canadian novelist and short story writer
Born
July 20th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
2014 11 years ago — 78 years old
This Canadian author gained recognition for powerful narratives that often explored themes of family and loss. His most celebrated novel, 'No Great Mischief', delves into the Scottish diaspora in Canada and the bonds of family. MacLeod's writing reflects the landscape and culture of Cape Breton, where he spent much of his life. In addition to novels, he authored numerous short stories, many of which appeared in collections that garnered critical acclaim. His stories frequently focus on the experiences and emotions of working-class characters. As an educator, he taught creative writing and literature at various institutions, influencing a generation of writers.
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