Markos Vamvakaris
Greek singer-songwriter and bouzouki player

Born
1905
120 years ago
Died
February 8th, 1972
53 years ago — 67 years old
Category
Artists & Creatives
Country
Greece
Links & References
A significant figure in the development of rebetiko music, he contributed to the genre with his distinctive vocals and bouzouki skills. Vamvakaris spent the early part of his life in poverty, which influenced his musical themes. His career took off in the 1930s, with many recordings that featured his original compositions. Vamvakaris's music often addressed the hardships of everyday life, drawing from personal experiences and the struggles of the working class. His body of work secured his status as a foundational artist in Greek music history.
Composed and performed classic rebetiko songs
Recorded influential albums including 'To Kafeneio' and 'To Tzami'
Other People Who Died on February 8th
Dennis Gabor
Significant contributions to the field of optics were made. Developed holography, a method of recording and displaying three-dimensional images using laser technology. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1971 for the invention of holography. His work has influenced various fields including photography, microscopy, and information storage.
Continue ReadingNancy Holt
An American sculptor and painter created large-scale artworks that engaged with the landscape. Significant contributions to the land art movement included installations such as 'Sun Tunnels' and 'Dark Star Park'. Works often integrated natural elements and challenged perceptions of space and environment. Collaborations took place with numerous artists and architects, expanding the reach of land art into broader artistic discourse. Holt's work is featured in major museums and exhibits, reflecting the evolution of contemporary art practices.
Continue ReadingJames DePreist
An accomplished conductor and educator, contributed significantly to classical music through conducting and teaching. Led the Oregon Symphony as music director for over 25 years. Served as assistant conductor of the New York Philharmonic and conducted major orchestras worldwide, including the Philadelphia Orchestra and the London Symphony Orchestra. Held esteemed academic positions, inspiring generations of musicians through teaching.
Continue ReadingIvan V of Russia
Born in 1666, ruled as Tsar of Russia from 1682 until 1696. Ascended the throne alongside his half-brother, Peter the Great, with whom shared power. Ivan's reign was marked by struggles with health, leading to limited personal involvement in governance. His co-regency with Peter the Great influenced the direction of Russian policy significantly. Following Ivan's death, Peter continued reforms that transformed Russia into a major European power.
Continue ReadingMargaret Forster
An English historian, author, and critic, contributed significantly to the literary landscape through numerous biographies and novels. Authored acclaimed works including 'Elizabeth Barrett Browning' and 'Margaret Foster's Diary'. Focused on women's lives and historical narratives, providing depth and insight into her subjects. Also served as a critic and essayist, exploring various themes in literature and culture.
Continue ReadingKanaiyalal Munshi
An activist in the Indian independence movement, contributions included writing and political involvement. Played a significant role in establishing institutions for education and culture. Actively participated in the struggle for independence and contributed to the nationalist discourse through literature. The establishment of the Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, an educational and cultural institution, marked a key accomplishment.
Continue Reading