Melanie Appleby

English singer of Mel and Kim

Melanie Appleby - Performers & Entertainers born 1966
Born

1966
60 years ago

Died
Category

Performers & Entertainers

Country

United Kingdom

Links & References

A singer from England, rose to prominence in the late 1980s as part of the duo Mel and Kim. The duo achieved commercial success with hits like 'Showing Out (Get Fresh at the Weekend)' and 'Respectable', both reaching high positions on the UK Singles Chart. Their upbeat music and energetic performances contributed to the popularity of the Stock Aitken Waterman production team during that era. The duo disbanded when one member fell ill, and their music remains a notable part of the pop culture of that time.

Released hit singles such as 'Showing Out' and 'Respectable'

Achieved success in the late 1980s with Mel and Kim

Other People Who Died on January 18th

Peter Abrahams

South African-Jamaican author
Born
1919 107 years ago
Died
January 18th, 2017 9 years ago — 98 years old

Born in 1919 in South Africa and later moving to Jamaica, contributed significantly to literature with a focus on the complexities of identity and race. His writing career spanned several decades, during which he produced numerous novels, essays, and short stories. Works often highlighted the struggles of individuals in a racially divided society. Achieved recognition for a blend of autobiographical and fictional narratives, often drawing from personal experiences and historical context. The body of work includes influential titles that addressed social issues, particularly in post-colonial contexts.

Continue Reading

Cecil Beaton

Photographer and costume designer
Born
January 14th, 1904 122 years ago
Died
January 18th, 1980 46 years ago — 76 years old

A celebrated photographer, painter, and costume designer, he gained recognition for his work in fashion photography as well as for his innovative costume designs for theater and film. Active in the mid-20th century, he was a prominent figure in British society and culture. He won two Academy Awards for Best Costume Design for the films 'Gigi' and 'My Fair Lady'. His photography often featured famous individuals, capturing the elegance and style of the era. Exhibitions of his works have been held worldwide, highlighting his contributions to the arts.

Continue Reading

Roberta Peters

Coloratura soprano and opera performer
Born
1930 96 years ago
Died
January 18th, 2017 9 years ago — 87 years old

An American coloratura soprano excelled in the world of opera. Debuted at the Metropolitan Opera in 1950, earning acclaim for her remarkable vocal agility and clarity. Specializing in roles such as Gilda in 'Rigoletto' and the Queen of the Night in 'The Magic Flute,' contributed significantly to the operatic repertoire. Recognized for numerous performances across major opera houses worldwide, including La Scala and Covent Garden. Peters' illustrious career also included several recordings that remain esteemed in the classical music industry.

Continue Reading

Anton Anderledy

Swiss religious leader, Society of Jesus
Born
June 3rd, 1819 207 years ago
Died
January 18th, 1892 134 years ago — 72 years old

A prominent Swiss religious leader served as the 23rd Superior General of the Society of Jesus from 1885 until death in 1892. Focused on the expansion of Jesuit missions and education, worked to revitalize Jesuit institutions in Europe and overseas. Under leadership, the order experienced significant growth in numbers and influence, reestablishing its presence in several countries.

Continue Reading

Goose Tatum

Basketball player and Harlem Globetrotter
Born
1921 105 years ago
Died
January 18th, 1967 59 years ago — 46 years old

Played basketball for the Harlem Globetrotters during the 1940s and 1950s, helping to popularize the team with impressive skill and showmanship. Served as a soldier in the U.S. Army during World War II. Tatum's unique style and abilities contributed to the global recognition of the Globetrotters as an entertaining sports team. His contributions to the team blended athleticism with comedy, captivating audiences worldwide.

Continue Reading

Jan van Riebeeck

Dutch politician, founder of Cape Town
Born
April 21st, 1619 407 years ago
Died
January 18th, 1677 349 years ago — 57 years old

A Dutch politician established a refreshment station for the Dutch East India Company at Cape of Good Hope in 1652, which later evolved into Cape Town. The settlement aimed to provide support for ships en route to the East Indies. Van Riebeeck served as the company's first commander, overseeing the initial development of the colony, including agriculture and trade routes. He played a critical role in the interactions between European settlers and local indigenous populations during the early stages of colonial expansion in Southern Africa.

Continue Reading