Kim Jong-hyun
South Korean singer and songwriter
A prominent South Korean singer and songwriter, gained widespread recognition as a member of the boy band SHINee. Launched solo career with multiple successful albums, showcasing musical versatility through a blend of pop and R&B influences. Achieved critical acclaim with the album "Story Op. 1" and the hit song "Deja Boo." Apart from musical achievements, engaged in songwriting for several artists and contributed to the K-pop genre's development. Involved in various philanthropic efforts, supporting mental health awareness prior to passing.
Member of SHINee, released numerous hits
Released critically acclaimed solo album "Story Op. 1"
Wrote songs for other artists in the K-pop industry
Other People Born on April 8th
Izzy Stradlin
Guitarist and songwriter for Guns N' Roses
Born
April 8th, 1962 63 years ago
Born in 1962, the musician gained prominence as the rhythm guitarist and primary songwriter for the rock band Guns N' Roses. The band achieved massive success with the release of the debut album 'Appetite for Destruction' in 1987, which included hit singles such as 'Sweet Child o' Mine' and 'Welcome to the Jungle'. Stradlin's contribution to the band's sound and songwriting during their peak years was significant. In 1991, he co-wrote several tracks for the double album 'Use Your Illusion I & II'. Stradlin departed from the band in 1991, pursuing a solo career that featured multiple albums showcasing his musical style. Stradlin later reunited with Guns N' Roses for specific performances, including the highly anticipated Not in This Lifetime... Tour in the mid-2010s.
Continue ReadingAlain Bondue
French cyclist, 1980 Olympic competitor
Born
April 8th, 1959 66 years ago
Competed as a professional cyclist and participated in the Olympic Games. Made a significant mark in cycling events during the 1980s. Achieved notable results in various national and international competitions, representing France. His career included participation in road racing and track cycling, showcasing talent and dedication to the sport.
Continue ReadingMel Schacher
American bass player of Grand Funk Railroad
Born
April 8th, 1951 74 years ago
A prominent bass player, contributed to the rock band Grand Funk Railroad, which formed in 1969. The band achieved significant commercial success and released several well-known albums. Schacher's distinctive bass lines and playing style were integral to the band's sound, particularly noted in hit songs that topped charts in the 1970s. His contributions helped establish Grand Funk Railroad as a leading act during the era.
Continue ReadingRoman Dragoun
Czech singer-songwriter and keyboard player
Born
April 8th, 1956 69 years ago
Started a music career as a keyboardist in various bands, most notably with Progres 2. Released several solo albums, blending rock and progressive music. Gained recognition in the Czech music scene for innovative compositions and lyrics. Participated in numerous music festivals, establishing a presence in Central European rock culture.
Continue ReadingGary Carter
Professional baseball player and coach
Born
April 8th, 1954 71 years ago
Died
February 16th, 2012 13 years ago — 57 years old
Played as a catcher in Major League Baseball, primarily for the New York Mets and the Montreal Expos. Achieved notable recognition for contributing to the Mets' victory in the 1986 World Series. Transitioned to coaching after retirement from playing, sharing knowledge and experience with younger players. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2003, celebrating a successful career with multiple All-Star appearances.
Continue ReadingDavid Wu
Lawyer and politician; U.S. Congressman
Born
April 8th, 1955 70 years ago
A Taiwanese-American lawyer and politician served as a U.S. Congressman from Oregon's 1st congressional district from 1999 to 2011. Played a significant role in various legislative efforts during tenure. Advocated for issues related to education, health care, and civil rights. Worked on the House Committee on Education and Labor, focusing on improving public education and labor rights. Resigned from Congress amid controversy in 2011.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 18th
Phil Cavarretta
Baseball player and manager
Born
July 19th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
December 18th, 2010 15 years ago — 94 years old
Played as a first baseman for the Chicago Cubs in Major League Baseball. Achieved notable success as a player, earning the National League Most Valuable Player award in 1945. Later transitioned to a managerial role, leading the Cubs and contributing to the team's development. Cavarretta's career spanned several decades, and he was recognized for his leadership both on and off the field.
Continue ReadingEdith of Wessex
Queen consort of England
Born
1025 1001 years ago
Died
December 18th, 1075 950 years ago — 50 years old
Served as queen consort of England from 1066 until death in 1075. Married to King Edward the Confessor, contributed to the political landscape of early medieval England. The reign included significant events such as the Norman Conquest. Played a role in the governance alongside Edward, influencing decisions in the court. Buried in Westminster Abbey.
Continue ReadingLouis Moreau Gottschalk
Pianist and composer, 'Bande Nègre'
Born
May 8th, 1829 196 years ago
Died
December 18th, 1869 156 years ago — 40 years old
Pianist and composer achieved prominence during the 19th century. Raised in New Orleans, exposure to diverse musical traditions influenced compositional style. Studied at the Paris Conservatoire and gained recognition as a virtuoso pianist. Composed numerous works, blending classical, popular, and folk elements, showcasing the rhythms and melodies of African American and Creole music. 'Bande Nègre' is one of the notable compositions that reflected these influences. Performed widely in the United States and Europe, contributing to the popularity of American music abroad. Died in 1869 in Brazil, leaving a legacy that inspired future generations of composers.
Continue ReadingVáclav Havel
Czech playwright and first president
Born
October 5th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
December 18th, 2011 14 years ago — 75 years old
A prominent figure in Czech literature and politics, the individual gained recognition as a playwright and essayist. His work often critiqued totalitarianism and advocated for democracy and human rights. In 1989, played a crucial role in the Velvet Revolution that led to the end of communist rule in Czechoslovakia. Subsequently, served as the last president of Czechoslovakia from 1989 to 1992 and became the first president of the Czech Republic from 1993 to 2003. Through various writings, the individual contributed to the discourse on freedom and civil rights.
Continue ReadingMichel Chasles
French mathematician and academic
Born
November 15th, 1793 232 years ago
Died
December 18th, 1880 145 years ago — 87 years old
Contributed significantly to geometry and projective geometry. Developed Chasles' theorem, which relates to the properties of motion and the geometry of rigid bodies. Held a professorship at the Collège de France and published various works in mathematics. Participated actively in the mathematical community of the 19th century, influencing future generations of mathematicians.
Continue ReadingIrving Caesar
American songwriter and composer
Born
July 4th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
December 18th, 1996 29 years ago — 101 years old
A prominent songwriter and composer, significant contributions to the music industry were made throughout a lengthy career. Collaborations with various artists produced numerous memorable songs. Works include timeless pieces that have resonated in popular culture. The ability to craft lyrics and melodies led to enduring popularity in the early 20th century.
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