Kai Hansen

German guitarist and metal vocalist

Kai Hansen - German guitarist and metal vocalist
Born

January 17th, 1963
62 years ago

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

Germany

Links & References

A significant figure in the heavy metal genre, contributed to the establishment of the power metal style through work with bands. Formed the band Helloween in 1984, which became pivotal in the development of this style. Later founded the band Gamma Ray, which achieved acclaim within the metal community. Hansen's influence extends through his musicianship and songwriting, showcasing a distinctive blend of melody and speed.

Founded Helloween, influential power metal band

Created Gamma Ray, acclaimed metal group

Other People Born on January 17th

Gaspard Bauhin

Swiss botanist and author of Pinax.
Born
January 17th, 1560 465 years ago
Died
December 5th, 1624 400 years ago — 64 years old

Significant contributions to botanical nomenclature and classification took place, establishing the basis for modern taxonomy. Published "Pinax Theatri Botanici," which listed more than 6,000 plants and proposed a systematic way to classify them. Acted as a professor of medicine at the University of Basel, where studies in botany and medicinal plants flourished. Developed extensive illustrations and descriptions of plants, influencing later naturalists and botanists.

Continue Reading

Dwyane Wade

Professional basketball player and champion
Born
January 17th, 1982 43 years ago

Played for the Miami Heat in the NBA from 2003 to 2016, with a brief return in 2018. Achieved three NBA championships in 2006, 2012, and 2013. Selected to the All-Star team 13 times and earned the NBA Finals MVP award in 2006. After retiring, became an analyst on the television show 'Inside the NBA.' Established a philanthropic foundation and engaged in various business ventures.

Continue Reading

Dalida

Singer and actress, 'Bambino'
Born
January 17th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1987 38 years ago — 54 years old

Born in Egypt and later moving to France, a significant career spanned several decades in music and film. Rose to prominence in the late 1950s with the hit single 'Bambino', which became a major milestone. Recorded songs in multiple languages including French, Italian, Arabic, and Spanish. Acted in films such as 'The Tontons Flingueurs' and 'Sirocco'. Achieved substantial success across the globe, earning numerous awards throughout a storied career.

Continue Reading

Howard Marion-Crawford

English actor in 'Doctor Who'
Born
January 17th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
1969 56 years ago — 55 years old

An English actor with a background in theatre, he gained recognition for his role as the First Doctor's companion, the character Steven Taylor, in the iconic British science fiction series 'Doctor Who'. His performances across various episodes contributed significantly to the early success of the show. Additionally, he appeared in several films and television series, showcasing versatility in roles ranging from dramas to comedies. He was also active in radio productions and stage performances, further highlighting a robust career in acting.

Continue Reading

Nevil Shute

English engineer and author of novels
Born
January 17th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
January 12th, 1960 65 years ago — 60 years old

An English engineer and author, became notable for writing several bestselling novels that explored themes of human endurance and societal challenges. Wrote the acclaimed novel 'On the Beach', which depicted a post-apocalyptic world. Founded an aircraft company and worked on wartime engineering projects. Relocated to Australia later in life, where much of the literary work was produced.

Continue Reading

Ryuichi Sakamoto

Pianist and composer of film scores
Born
January 17th, 1952 73 years ago
Died
March 28th, 2023 2 years ago — 71 years old

A pianist and composer, significant contributions included film scores and collaborations across various musical genres. Debuted with the electronic music group Yellow Magic Orchestra in the late 1970s, which pioneered synth-pop and techno. Created acclaimed scores for films such as 'Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence' and 'The Last Emperor', the latter winning an Academy Award. Collaborated with numerous artists and showed a versatile approach to composition, merging Eastern and Western musical influences.

Continue Reading