Mary Wells
American singer-songwriter with 'My Guy'
Born
May 13th, 1943
82 years ago
Died
July 26th, 1992
33 years ago — 49 years old
Category
Artists & Creatives
Country
United States
Links & References
A celebrated singer-songwriter, gained prominence in the 1960s. Achieved significant success with the hit single 'My Guy', which reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Associated with the Motown label, released several albums that featured a blend of pop and soul music. Contributed to the genre with a distinctive voice and style, influencing the sound of many artists that followed. Inducted into the Rhythm and Blues Music Hall of Fame in 2016, honored for contributions to music and culture. Her career included struggles with health issues later in life, but she remained an important figure in music history.
Released the hit single 'My Guy'
Inducted into the Rhythm and Blues Music Hall of Fame
Other People Born on May 13th
Mike Bibby
A professional basketball player and coach. Played college basketball at the University of Arizona, contributing to the team’s NCAA championship in 1997. Drafted by the Vancouver Grizzlies in 1998 and later played for several teams in the NBA, including the Sacramento Kings, Atlanta Hawks, and Miami Heat. Selected for the NBA All-Star Game in 2002. Won an NBA Championship with the Miami Heat in 2012. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, taking on roles with various teams at different levels.
Continue ReadingJuris Alunāns
Contributed to the field of philology in Latvia. Worked on compiling and editing a collection of Latvian folk songs and contributed significantly to the development of the Latvian language. Published works addressing linguistic issues and promoting the understanding of Latvian literature and culture. Was involved in the establishment of the Latvian cultural identity during the 19th century.
Continue ReadingJoe Louis
A professional boxer and wrestler gained international fame as a heavyweight champion. Held the world heavyweight boxing title from 1937 to 1949, defending it 25 times, a record at the time. Became a significant figure in sports history, transcending athletics to influence social issues during his career. Fought in several iconic bouts, most notably defeating Max Schmeling in 1938, a match symbolizing the racial tensions of the era. Transitioned to wrestling later in his career, continuing to engage audiences nationwide until retirement.
Continue ReadingBobby Valentine
Played as an outfielder in Major League Baseball for teams including the Los Angeles Dodgers, California Angels, and New York Mets. Managed the New York Mets and won the 2000 National League pennant. Served as the head coach of the baseball team at Boston Red Sox. Also worked in various roles in professional baseball, including as a commentator and an executive. His contributions to the game span several decades.
Continue ReadingMaria Christina
Born into the Habsburg dynasty, this individual was a notable figure in the 18th century, serving as the Duchess of Teschen. As the daughter of Empress Maria Theresa, played a significant role in the political landscape of Europe. Married to Albert Casimir, Duke of Teschen, served as a patron of the arts and supported various cultural initiatives. The duchess was influential in promoting the arts and sciences within her ducal territory, contributing to the cultural richness of the region.
Continue ReadingZebulon Baird Vance
Served as a colonel in the Confederate Army during the American Civil War. Elected as the 37th Governor of North Carolina from 1862 to 1865 and again from 1877 to 1879. Advocated for issues relevant to the state during and after the war, focusing on reconstruction efforts. Practiced law after the war and was involved in politics in the post-war period, contributing to the shaping of North Carolina’s governance.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 26th
Fujiwara no Kaneie
Served as a prominent statesman during the Heian period. Held the position of regent and contributed to the political dynamics of the Fujiwara clan. Influenced court culture and governance, ensuring the power of the Fujiwara family. His family lineage continued to play a significant role in Japanese politics after his death.
Continue ReadingGottlob Frege
A mathematician and philosopher significantly contributed to logic and philosophy of language. Developed a formal system, the Begriffsschrift, which laid the groundwork for modern logic. Critiqued traditional views of meaning and reference, leading to important developments in semantic theory. Influenced various fields, including mathematics, philosophy, and linguistics, with prominent works such as 'Begriffsschrift' and 'Die Grundlagen der Arithmetik'.
Continue ReadingMerce Cunningham
A prominent figure in the development of modern dance, contributed significantly to the art form through innovative choreography. Founded the Merce Cunningham Dance Company in 1953, which toured extensively and influenced generations of dancers and choreographers. Collaborated with various artists, including composer John Cage, creating a unique integration of music and dance. Utilized chance procedures in choreography, which revolutionized traditional approaches to movement. Explored technology in performance, incorporating film and multimedia elements to enhance the dance experience.
Continue ReadingFazlur Rahman Malik
A prominent philosopher and scholar focused on Islamic thought, contributed significantly to modern interpretations of the Quran. Served as a professor at the University of Chicago and held the position of the director of the Center for Middle Eastern Studies. Emphasized the importance of contextual understanding in religious texts and was influential in the development of contemporary Islamic philosophy. Authored several influential works that addressed fundamental issues in Islam and its relationship with modernity.
Continue ReadingDiane Arbus
An influential American photographer, notable for capturing striking and unconventional portraits of marginalized individuals and communities. Arbus's work often featured subjects such as circus performers, trans individuals, and the mentally ill, challenging societal norms regarding representation and beauty. Her photographs explored themes of identity, difference, and the human condition, often eliciting strong emotional responses. Arbus's notable exhibitions include 'Diane Arbus: A Chronology' and her posthumous feature in the Museum of Modern Art in New York. Arbus's legacy continues to influence contemporary photography.
Continue ReadingUlrika Eleonora of Denmark
Became queen of Sweden in 1680 after the death of her husband, Charles XI. Reigned as a prominent figure during a period marked by royal authority and the consolidation of the Swedish monarchy. Actively involved in political affairs and supported various projects aimed at improving the economy and military. Abdicated the throne in 1693, transferring her power to her son, Charles XII. Spent later years in Denmark.
Continue Reading