Junior Wells

American blues singer and harmonica player

Junior Wells - American blues singer and harmonica player
Born

December 9th, 1934
90 years ago

Died

January 15th, 1998
27 years ago — 63 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

A prominent figure in the Chicago blues scene, this artist gained recognition for vibrant performances and a unique vocal style. Wells started recording in the late 1950s and collaborated with various musicians throughout his career. Notable works include the influential album 'Hoodoo Man Blues,' which is regarded as a classic in the blues genre. His ability to blend vocal and harmonica performances set him apart and influenced many blues artists.

Released the landmark album 'Hoodoo Man Blues'

Collaborated with Buddy Guy on several recordings

Popularized the use of harmonica in blues music

Other People Born on December 9th

Tré Cool

Drummer for Green Day
Born
December 9th, 1972 52 years ago

Born in 1972, a German-American drummer and songwriter began drumming for the punk rock band Green Day in 1990. The band's seminal album, 'Dookie', released in 1994, achieved critical and commercial success, launching the band into mainstream fame. Tré Cool contributed to the band's enduring legacy with his energetic drumming style. He played on multiple albums, including 'American Idiot', which won a Grammy Award for Best Rock Album in 2005. In addition to work with Green Day, he has collaborated with various artists and contributed to side projects, showcasing his versatility as a musician.

Continue Reading

Dick Van Patten

American actor and 'Eight is Enough' star
Born
December 9th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
June 23rd, 2015 9 years ago — 86 years old

An American actor with a long-standing career in television and film. Gained fame as the father in the acclaimed television series 'Eight is Enough', which aired from 1977 to 1981. Also appeared in various films, including 'Robin Hood: Men in Tights' and 'The Lively Lady'. Van Patten was a member of the original cast of 'The Danny Kaye Show', showcasing his versatility. His work in the entertainment industry spanned several decades, with contributions to both comedy and drama genres. Additionally, he co-founded a successful pet food company.

Continue Reading

Johannes B. Kerner

German journalist and sportscaster
Born
December 9th, 1964 60 years ago

Born in 1964, this individual achieved prominence in German media as a journalist and sportscaster. The career began in print journalism before transitioning to television. Hosting various sports programs, major achievements include leading broadcasts during international football tournaments and other significant sporting events. The individual also hosted a talk show that featured interviews with several prominent figures across various fields, showcasing a range of topics beyond sports.

Continue Reading

Gastón Gaudio

Tennis player, French Open champion
Born
December 9th, 1978 46 years ago

Born in 1978, a professional tennis player from Argentina achieved notable success on the ATP Tour, particularly recognized for winning the French Open in 2004. Gaudio turned professional in the late 1990s and made significant strides in the rankings, reaching a career-high ATP singles ranking of World No. 5. His playing style combined powerful groundstrokes and tactical intelligence, contributing to his victories over top competitors during his career. After retiring in 2006, he remained involved in the sport, sharing his expertise through coaching and mentorship.

Continue Reading

John Milton

English poet and philosopher, 'Paradise Lost'
Born
December 9th, 1608 416 years ago
Died
November 8th, 1674 350 years ago — 65 years old

Born in England in 1608, a prominent poet and philosopher, focused on themes of political freedom and individual liberty. 'Paradise Lost,' an epic poem published in 1667, explores the biblical story of the Fall of Man and is considered one of the greatest works of English literature. Other notable works include 'Areopagitica,' a prose piece advocating for freedom of the press, and 'Paradise Regained,' which addresses redemption and temptation. Milton's writings reflect the tumultuous political climate of England during the Civil War and the Commonwealth.

Continue Reading

Olivia Lufkin

Singer-songwriter with notable albums
Born
December 9th, 1979 45 years ago

A Japanese-American singer-songwriter, emerged in the late 1990s with a unique sound blending pop and alternative music. Gained recognition with the release of the debut album 'Ripple' in 2000. Collaborated with various artists and contributed to writing and performing songs for films and series. Also known for her role in the duo mandy, alongside another musician, highlighting versatility in music styles. Continued to release music and remains active in the industry, influencing a generation of artists with her distinctive voice and songwriting skills.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on January 15th

Dolores O'Riordan

Irish pop singer and The Cranberries lead
Born
September 6th, 1971 53 years ago
Died
January 15th, 2018 7 years ago — 46 years old

An influential Irish pop singer achieved prominence as the lead vocalist of the band The Cranberries. The group gained international fame in the 1990s with hit songs such as 'Zombie' and 'Linger'. O'Riordan's distinctive voice and emotive songwriting contributed to the band's success, making them a significant presence in the alternative rock music scene. Beyond her work with The Cranberries, she also released solo albums, showcasing her versatility and artistic growth. The band reunited several times over the years, continuing to tour and release new music. O'Riordan's career was marked by both commercial success and critical acclaim until her untimely passing in 2018.

Continue Reading

Catherine Carey

Lady-in-waiting to Elizabeth I
Born
1524 501 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1569 456 years ago — 45 years old

Served as a lady-in-waiting to Elizabeth I and held a significant position in the court. Catherine was the daughter of the renowned courtier and soldier Henry Carey, 1st Baron Hunsdon. As a close servant to the Queen, she played an essential role in the royal household. Her presence in the court marked her involvement in the intricate social and political fabric of Elizabethan England. Catherine's lineage and court duties connected her to the influential roles of the period, contributing to the dynamics of the Tudor monarchy.

Continue Reading

Chak Tok Ich'aak I

Mayan ruler of Tikal
Died
January 15th, 378 1647 years ago — None years old

Ruled as a powerful leader of the ancient Maya civilization at Tikal, establishing strong political and military influence. During the reign, expanded the territory of Tikal and strengthened its position among rival city-states. Contributed to the construction of monumental architecture and religious structures that promoted the cultural and ceremonial life of the Maya people. His reign is marked by significant achievements in the realm of governance and warfare.

Continue Reading

John Landen

Mathematician known for Landen's theorem
Born
January 23rd, 1719 306 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1790 235 years ago — 70 years old

An English mathematician and theorist, contributed significantly to the fields of mathematics and geometry. Formulated Landen's theorem, which concerns the transformation of integrals. Worked on various mathematical topics including the theory of elliptic integrals and the evaluation of logarithmic functions. Authored several papers that influenced later developments in mathematical analysis.

Continue Reading

Arnold Janssen

German priest and missionary founder
Born
1837 188 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1909 116 years ago — 72 years old

A priest and missionary dedicated to educational and spiritual service, established the Society of the Divine Word in 1875 to promote missionary work worldwide. Founded the congregation of the Servants of the Holy Spirit, focusing on global evangelization and education. Created various institutions and missions to support his vision for spreading the Gospel, emphasizing the importance of cultural sensitivity in missionary work.

Continue Reading

Gulzarilal Nanda

Indian economist and Prime Minister
Born
July 4th, 1898 126 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1998 27 years ago — 99 years old

An Indian economist and politician served as acting Prime Minister of India during two tenures in 1964. Led initiatives focusing on India’s economic development, emphasizing social justice and labor rights. Played a significant role in formulating the country’s first Five-Year Plan. Contributed to national planning and policy-making during key periods of India’s post-independence history.

Continue Reading