Melanie Safka

Singer-songwriter and Emmy winner

Melanie Safka - Singer-songwriter and Emmy winner
Born

1947
78 years ago

Died

January 23rd, 2024
1 years ago — 77 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

An American singer-songwriter emerged in the late 1960s, particularly recognized for the hit song 'Brand New Key.' The music career included a distinctive folk style that resonated in various music festivals, especially at Woodstock in 1969. Released multiple albums throughout the 1970s, showcasing a blend of pop and folk elements. Achieved an Emmy Award for her contributions to television music. Continued to perform and release music into the new millennium, maintaining a dedicated fan base.

Released the hit song 'Brand New Key'

Performed at the Woodstock Festival in 1969

Won an Emmy Award for television music

Other People Who Died on January 23rd

Ferdinand II of Aragon

King of Aragon, united Spain
Born
1452 573 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1516 509 years ago — 64 years old

Ruled as King of Aragon from 1479 until death in 1516. Played a significant role in the unification of Spain through the marriage to Isabella I of Castile in 1469. This union laid the groundwork for the establishment of a unified Spanish monarchy. Sponsored Christopher Columbus's 1492 voyage, which led to the discovery of the Americas. Engaged in the Reconquista, culminating in the conquest of Granada in 1492, ending Muslim rule in Spain. His reign marked the beginning of Spain's emergence as a global power, influencing exploration and colonization efforts.

Continue Reading

Claude Chappe

French engineer and semaphore inventor
Born
1763 262 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1805 220 years ago — 42 years old

An engineer developed the optical telegraph system in France during the late 18th century, which utilized a series of towers with movable arms to convey messages over long distances. This innovation laid the groundwork for future telecommunications technology. The first operational line was established between Paris and Lille in 1794, significantly improving communication speed for the military and government.

Continue Reading

Brian Redhead

Journalist and author of 'The Today Programme'
Born
December 28th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1994 31 years ago — 64 years old

Worked as a journalist and author primarily in British media. Served as a presenter for BBC Radio 4's 'The Today Programme' where insightful interviews and commentary on current affairs characterized the broadcasts. Contributed to various publications and was significant in radio journalism. Engaged in discussions regarding political and social issues, influencing public opinion through commentary and analysis.

Continue Reading

Kid Ory

Trombonist and early jazz bandleader
Born
December 25th, 1886 138 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1973 52 years ago — 86 years old

An influential trombonist and bandleader, contributed extensively to the development of jazz music. Rose to prominence in the early 20th century, leading a jazz band that gained attention for its distinctive style. Worked in collaboration with notable musicians, showcasing exceptional talent on the trombone and composition. The band became a significant part of the New Orleans jazz scene and popularized the sound across the United States.

Continue Reading

Ernie Banks

Baseball player and coach, two-time MVP
Born
January 31st, 1931 94 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 2015 10 years ago — 83 years old

A celebrated baseball player and coach, this individual played his entire Major League Baseball career with the Chicago Cubs from 1953 to 1971. Renowned for his exceptional hitting ability, embrace of the game, and positive attitude, this athlete became the first player in Cubs history to have his jersey number 14 retired. After retirement, he served as a coach for the Cubs in the 1980s. This individual received numerous accolades during his career, including two National League Most Valuable Player Awards in 1958 and 1959. A member of the Baseball Hall of Fame since 1977, this individual also earned the nickname 'Mr. Cub'.

Continue Reading

Bernardo Pisano

Italian priest and composer of sacred music
Born
October 12th, 1490 535 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1548 477 years ago — 57 years old

Served as a priest and made significant contributions to sacred music during the Renaissance. Composed several motets and served as a music teacher, influencing the musical landscape of the time. His works were performed in various religious settings, highlighting the fusion of liturgical text and melody. Held a prominent position within the ecclesiastical community as a scholar and a composer, contributing to both music and formal education.

Continue Reading