Leonard Chess

Record executive, co-founder of Chess Records

Leonard Chess - Record executive, co-founder of Chess Records
Born

March 12th, 1917
108 years ago

Died

1969
56 years ago — 52 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

Co-founded Chess Records, a significant record label in the history of American music. Established the label in 1950 alongside his brother Phil, focusing on blues and R&B music. Worked with iconic artists such as Muddy Waters, Howlin' Wolf, and Chuck Berry, contributing to the popularization of these genres. Contributed to the development of rock and roll music through the label’s influential productions. Chess Records became a major force in the music industry during the 1950s and 1960s.

Co-founded Chess Records

Produced music for Muddy Waters

Worked with Chuck Berry and Howlin' Wolf

Other People Born on March 12th

Zhao Wei

Chinese actress and film director
Born
March 12th, 1976 49 years ago

Born in 1976, an acclaimed actress in Chinese cinema, gained significant recognition through performances in the television series 'My Fair Princess' and films such as 'Red Cliff.' Transitioned to directing with the film 'So Young,' which achieved notable box office success. Also recognized for contributions to the music industry as a pop singer.

Continue Reading

Al Jarreau

American jazz and R&B singer
Born
March 12th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
February 12th, 2017 8 years ago — 76 years old

A celebrated singer, his career spanned several decades, blending jazz, pop, and R&B. He gained prominence in the 1970s with a unique vocal style, utilizing scat singing and wind instruments. His first major album, 'We Got By,' was released in 1975. Throughout his career, multiple Grammy Awards were won, highlighting excellence in jazz, pop, and R&B categories. Jarreau also performed a memorable theme song for the television series 'Moonlighting,' which contributed to his recognition. His ability to adapt to various musical genres while retaining a distinct sound contributed to his legacy as a versatile performer.

Continue Reading

Raúl Mondesí

Baseball player and politician
Born
March 12th, 1971 54 years ago

A professional baseball player and politician from the Dominican Republic. Played in Major League Baseball from 1992 to 2002, mainly with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Achieved recognition as an outfielder with strong defensive skills and offensive power. Helped the Dodgers win the National League pennant in 1995 and received the National League Rookie of the Year award in 1994. Transitioned into a political career after retiring from baseball, focusing on improving social conditions in his home country.

Continue Reading

Ove Aunli

Former Norwegian cross-country skier
Born
March 12th, 1956 69 years ago

Aunli competed in cross-country skiing during the 1980s. He participated in the Winter Olympics, representing Norway. Aunli achieved significant success in the FIS Nordic World Ski Championships, earning multiple medals in various events. His performances included strong showings in both individual and team relay events, contributing to Norway's reputation in the sport. Aunli retired from competitive skiing after a notable career, leaving a legacy in Norwegian cross-country skiing.

Continue Reading

George Tyler Wood

American military officer and politician
Born
March 12th, 1795 230 years ago
Died
1858 167 years ago — 63 years old

Served as a military officer during the Mexican-American War. Held the position of Governor of the New Mexico Territory from 1853 to 1856, contributing to its governance during a period of territorial expansion. Participated in various military campaigns and political decisions that shaped the early development of the region. Engaged in issues concerning land rights and relations with Native American tribes.

Continue Reading

Jesse Fuller

One-man band musician, 'San Francisco Blues'
Born
March 12th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
January 29th, 1976 49 years ago — 79 years old

Pioneered the one-man band concept, utilizing various instruments simultaneously. Gained recognition for the signature song 'San Francisco Blues,' which highlighted the style of blues music. Performed in numerous venues, captivating audiences with innovative techniques and self-made instruments. Contributed to the folk music revival in the 1960s, impacting the genre's evolution through performances and recordings.

Continue Reading