Leon Wilkeson
American bass player for Lynyrd Skynyrd
A prominent bass player and songwriter, contributed significantly to the Southern rock genre as a member of Lynyrd Skynyrd. Joined the band in the early 1970s and played on classic albums including 'Pronounced Leh-nerd Skin-nerd' and 'Second Helping'. Involved in the band's revival in the late 1980s and participated in numerous tours and recordings. Wilkeson's distinctive playing style and dedication helped shape the sound of the band throughout its history.
Played bass on 'Sweet Home Alabama'
Participated in the band's classic albums
Contributed to the band's resurgence in the 1980s
Other People Born on April 2nd
John Larsson
Swedish General of The Salvation Army
Born
April 2nd, 1938 87 years ago
Died
2022 3 years ago — 84 years old
Served as the 17th General of The Salvation Army from 1993 to 1999. During tenure, focused on global evangelism and social action. Implemented various programs aimed at community development and advocating for social justice. Also, contributed to the theological and administrative development of the organization.
Continue ReadingEmperor Xian of Han
Emperor of Han dynasty during turmoil
Born
April 2nd, 181 1844 years ago
Died
April 21st, 234 1791 years ago — 53 years old
Ruled as the last emperor of the Eastern Han dynasty, succeeding his adoptive father, Emperor Ling. Ascended the throne at a young age amid political instability. His reign saw the decline of central authority and the rise of powerful eunuchs and warlords. The power struggle led to the eventual dissolution of the Han dynasty. In 189, a coalition of warlords sought to reduce eunuch control, leading to significant internal conflict. In 220, the Han dynasty was effectively ended when Liu Bei declared himself emperor in the southwest, marking the beginning of the Three Kingdoms period. Despite the turbulent times, the reign illustrated the complexities of governance in ancient China.
Continue ReadingKurt Winter
Canadian guitarist and songwriter
Born
April 2nd, 1946 79 years ago
Died
December 14th, 1997 28 years ago — 51 years old
Active in the music industry, became a prominent figure in the Canadian rock scene during the 1970s. Joined the band The Guess Who, contributing to their unique sound and songwriting. The band achieved significant commercial success and produced several hit songs that resonated with audiences at that time. Later, worked on solo projects and collaborated with various musicians, further expanding his influence in the music realm. Continued to perform and record music, showcasing skills as a guitarist and songwriter throughout a multifaceted career.
Continue ReadingHarindranath Chattopadhyay
Indian poet and politician, poet laureate
Born
April 2nd, 1898 127 years ago
Died
June 23rd, 1990 35 years ago — 92 years old
Born in 1898 in India, a poet, actor, and politician contributed significantly to Bengali literature and theatre. Involved in various cultural movements, played a role in the Indian independence movement and served in the legislative assemblies post-independence. Worked extensively in poetry, creating a legacy that resonated with the socio-political landscape of the time. Also acted in several plays and films, promoting the arts in different mediums, while engaging in political advocacy.
Continue ReadingMichael Boyce
Admiral and Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports
Born
April 2nd, 1943 82 years ago
Died
2022 3 years ago — 79 years old
An admiral in the Royal Navy and politician, played a significant role in military operations during the Gulf War. Served as the Chief of the Naval Staff and later became the Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports. Known for advocating the modernization of the Royal Navy and for contributions to discussions on national security and maritime policy. His leadership in the Navy shaped naval strategy in the late 20th century.
Continue ReadingBuddy Ebsen
Actor in The Beverly Hillbillies
Born
April 2nd, 1908 117 years ago
Died
July 6th, 2003 22 years ago — 95 years old
An American actor and dancer, began a career in show business with dancing and performing in vaudeville. Gained prominence in the 1960s with the role of Jed Clampett on the television series The Beverly Hillbillies. Initially cast as the Tin Man in The Wizard of Oz, developed a severe allergic reaction to the makeup and had to be replaced. Also known for roles in television series like Barnaby Jones. Continued to work in film and television until the late 1990s.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 27th
Sam Shepard
Playwright and actor of Buried Child
Born
November 5th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
July 27th, 2017 8 years ago — 73 years old
A prominent American playwright and actor, this individual gained widespread recognition for works that explored themes of family, identity, and the American experience. The play 'Buried Child' won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1979, influencing the landscape of American theatre. As an actor, involvement in films such as 'The Right Stuff' and 'Steel Magnolias' showcased versatility, transitioning between strong dramatic roles and supporting characters. The works often blended elements of surrealism with stark realism, illustrating complex interpersonal relationships and cultural narratives.
Continue ReadingNorman Alden
American Actor in film and television
Born
1924 101 years ago
Died
July 27th, 2012 13 years ago — 88 years old
An accomplished actor active from the 1950s through the 2000s, contributed to both television and film. Worked extensively in voice acting, lending talent to animated series and films. Featured in significant roles across various platforms, including guest appearances on popular television shows. Made notable contributions to the cinema as well, including appearances in films that achieved cult status.
Continue ReadingKidd Kraddick
Radio host and media personality
Born
1959 66 years ago
Died
July 27th, 2013 12 years ago — 54 years old
This individual became a prominent radio host recognized for the nationally syndicated morning radio show, The Kidd Kraddick Morning Show. The show aired for over 20 years, gaining a large audience and influencing the landscape of morning radio. Aside from radio, this person ventured into television, hosting the reality show Kidd's Kids on the WB network. Philanthropic efforts included the establishment of the Kidd's Kids charity, which aimed to provide trips for children with chronic illnesses. His charisma and engaging style made the show a staple in many households until his passing in 2013.
Continue ReadingHorst Stein
Conductor, led major orchestras worldwide
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
July 27th, 2008 17 years ago — 80 years old
Born in Germany, later became a Swiss conductor. Stein studied music at the Hochschule für Musik in Berlin. He gained prominence as a conductor with various leading orchestras, notably the Berlin State Opera and the Zurich Opera. He led numerous performances of classical repertoire and contemporary works. Stein was also a guest conductor with several orchestras around the world, including the London Philharmonic and Vienna Philharmonic, and made many recordings.
Continue ReadingTony Dow
Actor and director, starring in Leave It to Beaver
Born
1945 80 years ago
Died
July 27th, 2022 3 years ago — 77 years old
An American actor, film producer, director, and sculptor, contributed significantly to television and film. Best remembered for playing Wally Cleaver in the iconic series 'Leave It to Beaver' which aired from 1957 to 1963. Transitioned to directing in the 1970s, directing episodes of various television series. Later pursued a career in sculpture, focusing on abstract designs. Dow's multifaceted career showcased talents in both front of the camera and behind the scenes.
Continue ReadingR. G. Armstrong
American actor and playwright
Born
April 7th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
July 27th, 2012 13 years ago — 95 years old
A prominent figure in American theatre and film, this actor had a significant presence on both stage and screen. Work included roles in films such as 'The Great White Hope' and 'The Longest Yard', along with television appearances in series like 'The Twilight Zone' and 'Gunsmoke'. In addition to acting, also contributed as a playwright, showcasing talents in crafting narratives. Spanning a career that included performances across multiple genres, became recognized for versatility as an actor. Active in the industry for several decades, left a lasting imprint on both contemporary and classic theatrical productions.
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