Muddy Waters
Blues singer-songwriter and guitarist
Pioneer of the Chicago blues sound. Began his career in the 1940s, recording a number of influential tracks that shaped blues and rock music. Key works include 'Hoochie Coochie Man' and 'Frozen Assets'. Credited with bringing the electric guitar to the forefront of blues music, leading to its wider popularization. Received multiple Grammy Awards for his contributions to music. Migrated from Mississippi to Chicago, where he became a central figure in the blues scene.
Recorded influential tracks like 'Hoochie Coochie Man'
Won several Grammy Awards
Played a major role in the Chicago blues movement
Other People Born on April 4th
John Cameron Swayze
American television journalist
Born
April 4th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
August 15th, 1995 30 years ago — 89 years old
An American journalist served as a television news anchor and correspondent for NBC. Played a significant role in early television journalism, hosting the program 'Camel News Caravan,' which helped establish television news broadcasting. Covered important events and provided coverage during World War II. Worked in various capacities throughout the decades, contributing to news reporting during the expansion of television as a dominant medium.
Continue ReadingRosemary Lane
American actress and singer in musicals
Born
April 4th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
1974 52 years ago — 61 years old
Rosemary Lane gained recognition as an actress and singer, particularly during the 1930s and 1940s. Featured prominently in musical films, she displayed a notable talent for both acting and music. Lane reached a wider audience through roles in movies such as "The Singing Marine" and "That’s My Boy." In addition to film, Lane performed on stage, further demonstrating her versatility as a performer. Her contributions to the entertainment industry during the Golden Age of Hollywood left a lasting impression on audiences.
Continue ReadingPhilippa Fawcett
Mathematician and educator, Cambridge degree
Born
April 4th, 1868 157 years ago
Died
1948 78 years ago — 80 years old
Born in 1868, contributed significantly to the field of mathematics and education. Achieved first place in the Mathematical Tripos at Cambridge University in 1890, a notable accomplishment as women were not awarded degrees at that time. Fawcett also worked as an educator, advocating for the advancement of women in education and mathematics. Engaged in various educational initiatives and authored several papers on mathematics and pedagogy. Fawcett remained dedicated to her profession throughout her life, influencing many students and future educators.
Continue ReadingWilliam Henry Jackson
Painter and photographer of Western landscapes
Born
April 4th, 1843 182 years ago
Died
1942 84 years ago — 99 years old
Born in April 1843, this American artist became a key figure in the visual documentation of the American West. Initially trained as a painter, he transitioned to photography, capturing significant landscapes and geological sites. His work provided imagery for surveys conducted during the Westward expansion. Jackson's photographs played a crucial role in introducing the natural beauty of the West to a wider audience. Notably, he was a prominent contributor to the Hayden Geological Survey in the 1870s, where many of his photographs were used to promote the establishment of national parks, including Yellowstone. His artistic endeavors significantly influenced both the art world and public perception of the American wilderness.
Continue ReadingĐặng Văn Ngữ
Vietnamese physician and academic leader
Born
April 4th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
1967 59 years ago — 57 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of medicine in Vietnam. Worked as a prominent physician and served as an educator in medical colleges. Played a crucial role in advancing healthcare practices and medical education in the country. Actively involved in research and the development of medical programs, driving improvements in public health standards during a transformative period for Vietnamese society.
Continue ReadingNachman of Breslov
Hasidic leader and religious thinker
Born
April 4th, 1772 253 years ago
Died
1810 216 years ago — 38 years old
As the founder of the Breslov Hasidic movement, contributed to Jewish mysticism and philosophy in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Emphasized the importance of faith, joy, and personal connection to God. His teachings focused on prayer, the wonders of creation, and the significance of joyful worship. Authored several works, including stories and lessons that addressed spiritual growth and personal experience.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 30th
Tony Allen
Basketball player and NBA champion
Born
January 11th, 1982 44 years ago
Died
April 30th, 2020 5 years ago — 38 years old
Played as a shooting guard in the NBA, primarily with the Boston Celtics and the Memphis Grizzlies. Contributed to the Boston Celtics' 2008 NBA Championship victory. Recognized for defensive prowess, earning NBA All-Defensive First Team honors multiple times. Transitioned to a prominent role within Memphis, becoming a key player for the team's identity and success during the 2010s.
Continue ReadingMino Raiola
Italian football agent and intermediary
Born
1967 59 years ago
Died
April 30th, 2022 3 years ago — 55 years old
A prominent football agent, significantly influenced player transfers and contract negotiations in international football. Managed notable players such as Zlatan Ibrahimović, Paul Pogba, and Gianluigi Donnarumma. Established a reputation for securing lucrative deals and demonstrating strong negotiation skills. Actively engaged in the football community, advocating for players' rights and interests. His extensive network within the sport allowed for impactful collaborations and partnerships.
Continue ReadingPaul Auster
American novelist and essayist
Born
February 3rd, 1947 79 years ago
Died
April 30th, 2024 1 years ago — 77 years old
An American novelist, essayist, and poet, this writer has contributed significantly to contemporary literature. Known for exploring themes of identity, existentialism, and urban life, the author's work often blends mystery and metafiction. Notable works include the novels 'The New York Trilogy' and 'Moon Palace,' both of which exhibit a unique narrative style and philosophical depth. Besides fiction, the author has penned several essays that reflect on the nature of storytelling and the challenges of life.
Continue ReadingBelchior
Brazilian singer and composer of música popular
Born
1946 80 years ago
Died
April 30th, 2017 8 years ago — 71 years old
This Brazilian artist gained prominence in the 1970s with a distinctive combination of MPB (Música Popular Brasileira) and traditional Brazilian styles. Achieved acclaim for lyrical depth and socio-political themes in music. Gained widespread recognition for the song 'Apenas um Rapaz Lato Sensacional', which became an anthem of the generation. Released multiple influential albums, notably 'Alucinação', which further cemented a reputation as a standout singer-songwriter in Brazilian music.
Continue ReadingGeorge Balanchine
Choreographer of 'The Nutcracker'
Born
January 22nd, 1904 122 years ago
Died
April 30th, 1983 42 years ago — 79 years old
A prominent choreographer in ballet, created many influential works that shaped modern dance. Co-founded the New York City Ballet and served as its artistic director. Developed a unique style integrating classical ballet with contemporary themes. Worked with composers like Igor Stravinsky and Leonard Bernstein to create innovative ballets. 'The Nutcracker' remains one of the most performed ballets worldwide, and his other significant works include 'Apollo' and 'Serenade'.
Continue ReadingJock Zonfrillo
Television presenter and chef
Born
1976 50 years ago
Died
April 30th, 2023 2 years ago — 47 years old
A Scottish television presenter and chef, built a reputation in the culinary world through various television shows. Worked as a head chef in prestigious kitchens in Australia and returned to Scotland to reflect his roots in his cooking. Hosted the popular cooking competition program MasterChef Australia, showcasing culinary talent. Founded multiple restaurants that celebrated contemporary Australian cuisine and Scottish influences. Authored several cookbooks that emphasized personal stories and recipes inspired by travels and experiences.
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