Marc Blitzstein
American pianist and composer of theatre
A pianist and composer, contributed significantly to American music through theatrical works. Created the groundbreaking musical 'The Cradle Will Rock,' which premiered in 1937. Other works include the opera 'Regina' and adaptations of classical works. Blitzstein's style blended elements of classical, jazz, and folk music, reflecting contemporary social issues. In addition to composing, taught music at various institutions and mentored young musicians.
Composed the musical 'The Cradle Will Rock'
Created the opera 'Regina'
Adapted classical works into modern settings
Other People Born on March 2nd
Marcel Hirscher
Austrian Alpine Ski Racer
Born
March 2nd, 1989 36 years ago
Achieved great success in Alpine skiing, capturing a total of eight consecutive overall World Cup titles from 2012 to 2019. Dominated the slalom and giant slalom disciplines, winning numerous World Cup races. Secured two gold medals in the 2018 Winter Olympics held in Pyeongchang, excelling in both the men's alpine combined and the men's parallel giant slalom. Also earned multiple World Championship titles throughout his career, contributing to a legacy as one of the most accomplished Alpine skiers in history.
Continue ReadingArike Ogunbowale
Professional basketball player, WNBA star
Born
March 2nd, 1997 28 years ago
Born in 1997, a professional basketball player gained recognition during college at Notre Dame, where led the team to the 2018 NCAA Women's Basketball Championship. Achieved a buzzer-beater in the national title game, earning accolades for her performance. Drafted third overall by the Dallas Wings in the 2019 WNBA Draft and has established a reputation as a scoring leader in the league. Played in the WNBA All-Star Game and was named the 2021 WNBA Most Improved Player. Contributed significantly to her team's successes in both college and professional basketball.
Continue ReadingJon Bon Jovi
Rock singer with hit album 'Slippery When Wet'
Born
March 2nd, 1962 63 years ago
Born in 1962, this American singer-songwriter and guitarist gained recognition as the lead vocalist of the rock band Bon Jovi. The band's third studio album, 'Slippery When Wet', released in 1986, propelled them to international fame, featuring chart-topping singles such as 'Livin' on a Prayer' and 'You Give Love a Bad Name'. Alongside music, ventures into acting included roles in films like 'Moonlight and Valentino' and guest appearances on television shows. Production work also marked a significant part of the career, contributing to various projects, including those under his own record label, Jambco Records.
Continue ReadingMalcolm Butler
American football cornerback, Super Bowl champion
Born
March 2nd, 1990 35 years ago
Played college football at the University of West Alabama before entering the NFL. Signed by the New England Patriots as an undrafted free agent in 2014. Played a pivotal role in Super Bowl XLIX, intercepting a pass in the final moments of the game against the Seattle Seahawks, which secured the Patriots' victory. Spent four seasons with the Patriots, showcasing defensive skills and earning Pro Bowl selections. Later signed with the Tennessee Titans, contributing to the team's defensive lineup.
Continue ReadingClark Gesner
Author and composer of 'You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown'
Born
March 2nd, 1938 87 years ago
Died
July 23rd, 2002 23 years ago — 64 years old
An American author and composer created music and lyrics for several stage productions. Best recognized for composing the score for the musical 'You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown,' based on the comic strip 'Peanuts' by Charles M. Schulz. This musical premiered off-Broadway in 1967 and has since been performed extensively worldwide. Gesner also worked on other musical projects, contributing to children's television and theater, and created original songs for various productions.
Continue ReadingCiriaco Sforza
Swiss footballer and manager
Born
March 2nd, 1970 55 years ago
Played as a midfielder and represented Switzerland in international competitions. Had a career spanning clubs in Switzerland, Germany, and Italy. Contributed significantly to the success of FC Basel and played for prominent teams such as Bayern Munich and Inter Milan. Transitioned to management after retiring from professional play, taking roles including head coach of FC Luzern and Grasshopper Club Zürich.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 22nd
Queen Victoria
Queen of the United Kingdom
Born
May 24th, 1819 206 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1901 124 years ago — 81 years old
Reigned from 1837 to 1901, overseeing the British Empire during a period of industrial, cultural, political, scientific, and military change. The Victorian era was defined by strict standards of morality and personal conduct, with significant advancements in technology and expansion of the empire. Engaged in the development of railways, telegraphs, and public health systems. The royal family maintained a significant influence on British society, with various descendants marrying into numerous European royal families.
Continue ReadingAnne Hébert
Canadian author and poet
Born
August 1st, 1916 109 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 2000 25 years ago — 83 years old
A prominent figure in Canadian literature, contributed significantly through poetry and novels. Published major works such as 'Les Fous de Bassan' and 'Kamouraska', which explore complex themes of identity, isolation, and societal struggles. Received numerous awards for literary excellence, including the Governor General's Award for Fiction.
Continue ReadingConsuelo Velázquez
Pianist and songwriter of Bésame Mucho
Born
August 21st, 1916 109 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 2005 20 years ago — 88 years old
Began composing music at a young age. Gained recognition as a pianist and songwriter, with much of the work centered in Mexico. Created the iconic bolero 'Bésame Mucho' in 1940, which became a standard in Latin music and was covered by numerous artists globally. Other songs contributed to the music scene, showcasing a blend of classical and popular styles. Her work significantly influenced Latin American music, and she received various awards in recognition of her contributions. Continued to perform and compose throughout her life, leaving a lasting legacy in the music community.
Continue ReadingShah Jahan
Mughal emperor and architect of the Taj Mahal
Born
January 5th, 1592 433 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1666 359 years ago — 74 years old
Ascended to the throne in 1628 as the fifth Mughal emperor. His reign from 1628 to 1658 was marked by significant architectural achievements, most notably the construction of the Taj Mahal in Agra, a mausoleum built in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. The Taj Mahal is regarded as a masterpiece of Mughal architecture, combining elements from Persian, Islamic, and Indian architectural styles. Jahan's rule also saw the expansion of the Mughal Empire and a flourishing of culture and the arts. His later years were marred by conflict with his son, Aurangzeb, who eventually imprisoned him.
Continue ReadingEmpress of Southern Han
Empress of Southern Han dynasty
Died
January 22nd, 935 1090 years ago — None years old
Ruled as the empress during the Southern Han dynasty, overseeing a period known for cultural and economic growth in the region. The reign contributed to the stabilization of Southern Han power in southern China. The empress played a significant role in governance, military campaigns, and supporting cultural developments, enhancing the dynasty’s prestige.
Continue ReadingTelly Savalas
American actor and TV detective
Born
January 21st, 1922 103 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1994 31 years ago — 72 years old
An American actor gained prominence through television and film roles. Played the titular character in the long-running detective series 'Kojak', which aired from 1973 to 1978. His performance as Kojak earned critical acclaim and multiple nominations and awards. Savalas also appeared in numerous films, with notable roles in 'The Dirty Dozen' and 'Birds'. His distinct bald head and expressive acting style became his trademark.
Continue Reading