Leslie West
Rock guitarist and vocalist of Mountain
A prominent figure in rock music, this guitarist and vocalist gained recognition as a founding member of the band Mountain. The band's song "Mississippi Queen" became one of the defining tracks of the early 1970s rock era. He also released several solo albums and collaborated with various artists throughout his career. Known for his powerful guitar riffs and distinctive voice, contributions to the genre made a lasting impression on rock music.
Formed the band Mountain in 1969
Wrote and performed 'Mississippi Queen'
Inducted into the Long Island Music Hall of Fame
Other People Born on October 22nd
Clare Fischer
American pianist and composer
Born
October 22nd, 1928 97 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 84 years old
Contributed significantly to jazz music as a pianist, composer, and arranger. Developed a unique style blending classical influences with jazz. Worked with prominent artists including Prince, and arranged for various big bands. Composed various pieces and choral works, which incorporated innovative harmonies. Fischer's work had a lasting influence on the jazz genre.
Continue ReadingBaby Keem
Rapper and record producer, 'Family Ties'
Born
October 22nd, 2000 25 years ago
Born in 2000, gained recognition as a rapper and record producer. Released the critically acclaimed mixtape 'Die For My Bitch' in 2019, which showcased a unique blend of sound and style. Collaborated with various artists, further cementing a place in the music industry. Achieved notable success with the single 'Family Ties', featuring Kendrick Lamar, which highlighted impressive lyrical skills and contributed to increasing visibility within hip hop.
Continue ReadingSalarrué
Salvadoran writer and painter
Born
October 22nd, 1899 126 years ago
Died
1975 50 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent figure in Salvadoran literature and art, explored themes of identity and culture. Contributed to literature through poetry, novels, and essays, often reflecting on the social issues of El Salvador. Engaged in painting, produced works that illustrated local folklore and rural life. His literary contributions were pivotal during the 20th century, influencing subsequent generations of writers and artists.
Continue ReadingCharalambos Lykogiannis
Greek footballer and Olympic participant
Born
October 22nd, 1993 32 years ago
Played as a left-back for various clubs, notably for the Greek Super League club AEK Athens and the national team. Competed in the UEFA European Championship and represented Greece in international matches. Contributed to club successes with defensive prowess and consistent performances.
Continue Reading21 Savage
Rapper and songwriter, 'Issa Album'
Born
October 22nd, 1992 33 years ago
Born in London and raised in Atlanta, this rapper emerged in the hip-hop scene in the 2010s. Gained attention with the release of 'Savage Mode' in collaboration with producer Metro Boomin. 'Issa Album', released in 2017, featured the hit single 'Bank Account', which reached considerable commercial success. The artist has been recognized for contributions to the genre and has engaged in various philanthropic efforts, particularly in education and community development.
Continue ReadingJonathan Lipnicki
American actor known for Jerry Maguire
Born
October 22nd, 1990 35 years ago
An actor began a career in entertainment at a young age, gaining attention for a breakout role in the film 'Jerry Maguire' at age five. This early success led to various roles in film and television. Notable appearances include the family film 'Stuart Little' and its sequel, where portrayed George Little. Lipnicki also appeared in series such as 'The Jeff Foxworthy Show'.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 23rd
Chryssa
Sculptor and neon art pioneer
Born
1933 92 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 2013 12 years ago — 80 years old
Chryssa was a Greek-American sculptor recognized for integrating neon lights into art. Her work transformed the perception of neon from commercial signage to fine art, illustrating the interplay of light, space, and modernity. Chryssa's pieces often reflected themes of urban life and included the use of materials such as glass and metal. She had a significant exhibition at the Guggenheim Museum and other prominent galleries, bringing attention to the potential of neon art. Chryssa's innovative approach and aesthetic played a crucial role in establishing neon as a valid medium in contemporary art settings.
Continue ReadingCharles-Michel de l'Épée
French educator and founder of deaf education
Born
November 24th, 1712 313 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 1789 236 years ago — 77 years old
An influential figure in the education of the deaf, developed the first systematic methods for teaching deaf individuals. Established a school for the deaf in Paris, which laid the foundation for future educational practices in the field. Promoted the use of sign language as a means of communication and education for the deaf community. His work contributed to a better understanding of deafness and sign languages in France and beyond.
Continue ReadingNgapoi Ngawang Jigme
Chinese general and politician
Born
February 1st, 1910 115 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 2009 16 years ago — 99 years old
Born in 1910, a prominent figure in the Tibetan region, served as a general and played a significant role in the political landscape of Tibet in the mid-20th century. Led Tibetan forces during the 1950s against the Chinese invasion and later participated in discussions regarding the political future of Tibet. Played a key role in the establishment of the Tibetan Autonomous Region, aligning with the Chinese government, and served in various political capacities thereafter. Contributed to the framing of Tibetan provincial policies and was influential in various governmental organizations.
Continue ReadingEdward Schillebeeckx
Theologian and academic
Born
1914 111 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 2009 16 years ago — 95 years old
A Belgian theologian and academic, this figure contributed significantly to theological discourse and education in the 20th century. Notable works include 'Jesus: An Experiment in Christology' and 'The Church with a Human Face'. The approach to theology emphasized the importance of personal experience and existential questions. In the realm of Vatican II, this theologian engaged critically with church teachings, bringing fresh perspectives on topics such as grace and the nature of the church. Schillebeeckx's writings influenced a generation of theologians, scholars, and lay practitioners.
Continue ReadingFred Hargesheimer
American soldier and pilot
Born
1916 109 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 2010 15 years ago — 94 years old
Served as a pilot in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II. Elected to fly bombing missions over enemy territory in the Pacific Theater. After sustaining serious injuries and being captured, escaped captivity and evaded enemy forces in Japanese-occupied territory. Contributed to the war effort through daring acts of bravery and resilience. Awarded the Air Medal and Purple Heart for valor.
Continue ReadingG. S. Shivarudrappa
Indian poet and educator
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 2013 12 years ago — 87 years old
An influential poet and educator, contributed significantly to Kannada literature. Advocated for the use of Kannada language in education and promoted literary culture through his works. Served as a professor and worked in various educational institutions, shaping the literary landscape in Karnataka. Authored several poetry collections, reflecting the nuances of life and nature.
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