Mary Lou Williams
American jazz pianist and composer
Born
May 8th, 1910
115 years ago
Died
May 28th, 1981
44 years ago — 71 years old
Category
Artists & Creatives
Country
United States
Links & References
A prominent figure in jazz music, contributed significantly to the development of various jazz styles. Williams performed with notable musicians including Duke Ellington and Benny Goodman. She composed a wide range of pieces, including sacred music and big band scores. Williams also played a pivotal role in mentoring younger musicians, helping to shape the next generation of jazz artists. Throughout her career, she worked to elevate the genre and bridge the gap between traditional jazz and its modern forms.
Composed the classic jazz piece 'The Flatted Fifth'
Mentored musicians such as Thelonious Monk and Dizzy Gillespie
Performed at the White House for President Franklin D. Roosevelt
Other People Born on May 8th
Victor Amadeus I
Duke of Savoy held the title in the early 17th century. Ascended to the ducal title in 1630 following the death of his father. His reign was marked by efforts to strengthen the duchy’s position within Italy and against external threats. Played a role in the War of the Mantuan Succession, which aimed to secure territories in Northern Italy. His marriage to Christine of France helped to secure valuable alliances. Died in 1637, succeeded by his son.
Continue ReadingEvgeny Lebedev
A Russian-English publisher and philanthropist, played a significant role in the media landscape by owning prominent publications. Acquired the Evening Standard and The Independent, guiding their editorial direction and transforming their business models. Engaged in various philanthropic efforts, focusing on the arts and healthcare, and has contributed to charitable initiatives that address social issues. Actively participated in discussions regarding press freedom and the role of media in society.
Continue ReadingAloysius Stepinac
Served as the Archbishop of Zagreb and a prominent figure in the Catholic Church during World War II. Opposed the Axis powers' influence in Croatia and spoke out against the persecution of Jews and other marginalized groups. After the war, faced a show trial by the Yugoslav communist government, resulting in a conviction viewed as politically motivated. Later, canonized by the Catholic Church for his service and martyrdom.
Continue ReadingFelix Jones
Born in 1987, this American football player played as a running back in the National Football League (NFL). Drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in 2008, contributed to the team's offense for several seasons. During tenure, showcased speed and agility, becoming a valuable asset to the squad. His collegiate career at the University of Arkansas highlighted exceptional performance, leading to a robust professional career.
Continue ReadingGiovanni Battista Gaulli
Active during the Baroque period, this artist contributed significantly to the development of ceiling frescoes. His works often featured dramatic compositions and vibrant colors. He trained under influential artists and became known for his work at the Church of the Gesù in Rome, where a grand ceiling fresco exemplifies the height of Baroque art. This artist also painted numerous altarpieces and exhibited proficiency in both religious and mythological themes.
Continue ReadingRay Whitney
A professional ice hockey player with a career spanning over 20 seasons in the NHL. Played for several teams including the New York Rangers, Edmonton Oilers, and Carolina Hurricanes. Achieved the Stanley Cup with the Carolina Hurricanes in 2006. Contributed significantly as a forward with notable scoring ability and playmaking skills.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 28th
Simion Bărnuțiu
A prominent historian and politician, contributed significantly to Romanian historiography and the national movement during the 19th century. Advocated for the rights of Romanians in Transylvania and participated in the 1848 Revolution in the region. Served as a professor and was instrumental in the establishment of academic institutions. Worked on editing historical documents and was deeply involved in public life, promoting education and national unity.
Continue ReadingIlya Prigogine
Contributions to thermodynamics and physical chemistry included the formulation of the theory of dissipative structures. This work highlighted the behavior of complex systems far from equilibrium. Served as director of the International Solvay Institutes and held a professorship at the Université Libre de Bruxelles. In 1977, received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for contributions that advanced the understanding of thermodynamic processes.
Continue ReadingSy Oliver
A prominent figure in American music, contributed significantly to the big band era as a trumpeter and arranger. Worked with notable orchestras, including the Cab Calloway Orchestra and the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra. Developed a style that blended jazz and popular music, and composed many memorable songs that became standards. Collaborated with various artists and groups, showcasing talents in both performance and composition.
Continue ReadingBoris Kustodiev
A prominent Russian painter and stage designer, Kustodiev gained recognition for works that reflect Russian life, folklore, and culture. His artistic style combines realism with elements of Russian folk art, characterized by vibrant colors and rich textures. His major work, 'The Bolshevik', exemplifies this blend and captures the spirit of the early Soviet era. In addition to painting, he designed sets for various theatrical productions, significantly contributing to Russian theatre aesthetics during the early 20th century. Kustodiev faced health challenges throughout life, which influenced his perspective and subject matter in art.
Continue ReadingHenry Dundas
Served as the Secretary of State for War and played a significant role in British politics during the late 18th century. Held various positions, including that of Lord Advocate of Scotland. Ascended to the peerage as 1st Viscount Melville in 1802. Engaged in the management of military and naval affairs, influencing policies that shaped Britain's military strategy during the Napoleonic Wars. Contributed to the development of Scotland's legal framework and governance.
Continue ReadingToshikatsu Matsuoka
Served as Japan's Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries from 2006 until death in 2007. Involved in various agricultural policies and initiatives during tenure. Contributed to discussions around food security and rural development. Held a significant role in responding to issues such as agricultural subsidies and international trade agreements that affected Japan's agriculture sector.
Continue Reading