Keith Jarrett

Jazz pianist and improvisational composer

Keith Jarrett - Jazz pianist and improvisational composer
Born

May 8th, 1945
80 years ago

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

An influential pianist and composer, contributed significantly to jazz and classical music. Gained prominence with the album "The Köln Concert," which became one of the best-selling solo piano albums in history. Developed a unique improvisational style, merging jazz with other genres, and led the Keith Jarrett Trio, achieving critical acclaim. Collaborated with numerous prominent musicians throughout a prolific career, leaving a lasting legacy in modern music.

Released the best-selling album "The Köln Concert"

Led the Keith Jarrett Trio

Developed a distinctive improvisational style

Other People Born on May 8th

Bill de Blasio

American politician and NYC Mayor
Born
May 8th, 1961 64 years ago

Served as the 109th Mayor of New York City from 2014 to 2021. Prior to this, held the position of Public Advocate for the city from 2010 to 2013. Worked in various public service roles, including as a regional director at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Focused on policies addressing inequality, affordable housing, and education during tenure as mayor. Lost a bid for reelection in 2021.

Continue Reading

Thomas B. Costain

Canadian journalist and historical author
Born
May 8th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
1965 60 years ago — 80 years old

A Canadian journalist and author, this individual contributed significantly to historical literature during the 20th century. Specializing in historical narratives, the work often spotlighted prominent historical figures and events. The writing style was accessible, aiming to engage a broad audience. Notable works included books such as 'The Black Robe', which detailed the Jesuit missions in Canada, and 'The Conquerors', focusing on the Norman Conquest of England. Beyond literature, the individual also had a career in journalism, working for various Canadian publications throughout the early to mid-1900s. His literary contributions helped popularize history among everyday readers in Canada and abroad.

Continue Reading

Pat Barker

English author, acclaimed for Regeneration
Born
May 8th, 1943 82 years ago

An English author, recognized for contributions to literature, particularly in the realm of historical fiction. The acclaimed novel 'Regeneration' explores the experiences of soldiers during World War I and their psychological struggles. This work received the Booker Prize in 1995, highlighting the impact of war on human mental health. Many writings reflect on themes of trauma, memory, and identity, often set against the backdrop of significant historical events.

Continue Reading

Charles Beauclerk

English soldier and politician, Duke of St Albans
Born
May 8th, 1670 355 years ago
Died
May 10th, 1726 299 years ago — 56 years old

Born in 1670, a soldier and politician held the title of 1st Duke of St Albans. Served as the Lord Lieutenant of Berkshire. Played a significant role in local governance and military affairs during the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Contributed to the political landscape of England in the post-Restoration period.

Continue Reading

Peter Benchley

American author of Jaws
Born
May 8th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
February 11th, 2006 19 years ago — 65 years old

An American author and screenwriter, notable for writing the thriller novel 'Jaws' published in 1974. The book depicts the story of a monstrous great white shark that terrorizes a beach town. The novel's immense popularity catapulted it to the top of bestseller lists and led to a major film adaptation directed by Steven Spielberg in 1975, which became a cultural sensation and established the summer blockbuster phenomenon. Benchley also wrote several other novels, including 'The Deep' and 'Beast', and served as a screenwriter for various movies. Beyond literature, Benchley became an advocate for ocean conservation.

Continue Reading

Toni Tennille

Singer-songwriter, The Captain & Tennille
Born
May 8th, 1940 85 years ago

A singer-songwriter and keyboard player rose to prominence in the 1970s as part of the duo The Captain & Tennille. The duo gained widespread popularity with the hit single 'Love Will Keep Us Together,' which won a Grammy Award for Record of the Year in 1976. Their musical style blended pop and soft rock, leading to several chart-topping albums during their career. Besides their musical contributions, they hosted their own television variety show, showcasing their talents to a broader audience. Tennille has also released solo work, including a self-titled album and various singles, further establishing her presence in the music industry.

Continue Reading