Kelly Groucutt
Singer and bass player for Electric Light Orchestra
A musician and singer, contributed as the bass player and vocalist for the Electric Light Orchestra from 1974 to 1983. This band merged rock with orchestral elements and gained significant popularity during the 1970s and early 1980s. Participated in the recording of several successful albums, notably 'A New World Record' and 'Out of the Blue'. After leaving the band, continued to perform and collaborate with various artists. His work remains celebrated among fans of progressive rock and pop music.
Played bass and provided vocals for Electric Light Orchestra
Contributed to albums 'A New World Record' and 'Out of the Blue'
Other People Born on September 8th
Tanikaze Kajinosuke
Sumo wrestler - Yokozuna champion
Born
September 8th, 1750 275 years ago
Died
February 27th, 1795 230 years ago — 44 years old
Achieved the rank of Yokozuna, the highest rank in sumo wrestling, during the Edo period in Japan. Dominated the sumo scene in the late 18th century, known for an impressive winning record and exceptional technique. Retired with a notable legacy in the sport, influencing future generations of sumo wrestlers.
Continue ReadingBraulio Luna
Mexican footballer and club star
Born
September 8th, 1974 51 years ago
Played as a midfielder primarily in the 1990s and 2000s. Started professional career with Atlético Morelia in 1992. Transferred to Club América, contributing to the team’s success in the Mexican Primera División. Played for Necaxa and other clubs in the league. Represented Mexico at various youth levels and participated in international competitions, including the CONCACAF Gold Cup.
Continue ReadingDiego Benaglio
Swiss footballer and goalkeeper
Born
September 8th, 1983 42 years ago
Played as a goalkeeper in professional football, starting a career in 2000. Represented FC St. Gallen and later moved to VfL Wolfsburg, where contributed to the team's Bundesliga title in 2009. Also played for the Switzerland national team, participating in major tournaments such as the UEFA European Championship and the FIFA World Cup. Retired from international football after 2016.
Continue ReadingBarbara Frum
Journalist and radio host
Born
September 8th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
March 26th, 1992 33 years ago — 54 years old
A prominent journalist and radio host, gained recognition for insightful interviews and critical discussions on current affairs. Hosted 'The Barbara Frum Show' on CBC Radio, focusing on significant social and political issues. Contributed to the development of broadcast journalism in Canada and received accolades for excellence in journalism.
Continue ReadingAnsgar
Frankish archbishop, Apostle of the North
Born
September 8th, 801 1224 years ago
Died
February 3rd, 865 1161 years ago — 63 years old
An influential Frankish archbishop served as a key missionary to Scandinavia. Established the archbishopric of Hamburg-Bremen and played a significant role in the Christianization of the Norse regions. Conducted missions to Denmark and Sweden in the early 9th century. His efforts in promoting Christianity in northern Europe led to the foundation of churches and the spread of religious practices. He maintained correspondence with various leaders to facilitate the missionary efforts and strengthen the faith in the newly converted regions.
Continue ReadingMatheus Leist
Brazilian race car driver with IndyCar success
Born
September 8th, 1998 27 years ago
Competed in professional motorsport from a young age, achieving significant success in various racing series. Gained attention in 2018 as a driver for A.J. Foyt Enterprises in the IndyCar Series. Demonstrated skill during the Indianapolis 500, one of the most prestigious races in the world. Prior to IndyCar, achieved notable finishes in the Eurocircuit series.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 19th
José Mojica Marins
Filmmaker and horror film innovator
Born
1936 90 years ago
Died
February 19th, 2020 5 years ago — 84 years old
A Brazilian filmmaker, writer, and actor became a prominent figure in the horror genre through the creation of unique and cult classic films. Contributed significantly to the development of the Brazilian horror film industry. Best known for the character Coffin Joe, which became emblematic of his work, often challenging social norms and pushing artistic boundaries. Marins hosted a television show that reinforced his association with horror cinema, captivating audiences with suspenseful storytelling and macabre themes.
Continue ReadingDerek Jarman
Film director and set designer
Born
January 31st, 1942 84 years ago
Died
February 19th, 1994 31 years ago — 52 years old
Jarman directed several influential films, including 'Caravaggio' and 'Blue'. He was also known for his work in theatre and as a visual artist. Jarman's films often tackled themes of sexuality, art, and politics, showcasing his distinct style and perspective. In addition to directing, Jarman designed sets for various productions, emphasizing bold colors and innovative designs. He remained an important figure in the British arts scene until his passing in 1994.
Continue ReadingValeri Kubasov
Russian engineer and astronaut with a Soyuz mission.
Born
1935 91 years ago
Died
February 19th, 2014 11 years ago — 79 years old
An engineer and astronaut, he participated in multiple space missions throughout his career. Made contributions to the Soviet space program and was a crew member on the Soyuz 36 and Soyuz 37 missions. Conducted scientific experiments aboard the Salyut space stations and spent over 10 days in space during various missions. Worked as a test pilot and contributed to the development of aeronautics and spaceflight technology in Russia.
Continue ReadingUmberto Eco
Novelist and philosopher; The Name of the Rose
Born
January 5th, 1932 94 years ago
Died
February 19th, 2016 9 years ago — 84 years old
An Italian novelist, literary critic, and philosopher. Authored several critically acclaimed works, blending fiction, semiotics, and medieval studies. Gained significant recognition with the novel 'The Name of the Rose', which combines a murder mystery with historical and philosophical themes. Worked as a professor of semiotics at the University of Bologna, contributing to the field through various publications. Also wrote essays on culture and communication, influencing contemporary thought.
Continue ReadingNirad Mohapatra
Indian director, producer, and screenwriter
Born
1947 79 years ago
Died
February 19th, 2015 10 years ago — 68 years old
Contributed significantly to Odia cinema as a director, producer, and screenwriter. Directed critically acclaimed films that highlighted socio-political themes. Achieved recognition within regional film circles in India. Played a key role in promoting literature through film adaptations and storytelling. Collaborated with various actors and filmmakers to enhance the quality of Odia films.
Continue ReadingAndré Gide
French novelist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
November 22nd, 1869 156 years ago
Died
February 19th, 1951 74 years ago — 81 years old
A prominent figure in French literature, contributions included influential novels, essays, and plays. Focused on themes of individualism and moral complexity, works often challenged societal norms. Significant publications included 'The Immoralist', 'The Counterfeiters', and 'Straight is the Gate'. Recipient of the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1947, recognized for a body of work that explored the intricacies of human experience. Gide's literary career spanned several decades, influencing many writers and thinkers.
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