Ornette Coleman
Innovative jazz saxophonist and composer
A pioneering figure in the jazz genre, this musician revolutionized the way jazz was perceived and played. Renowned for the development of free jazz, the approach to improvisation emphasized spontaneous performance without predetermined chord progressions. In 1959, released the influential album 'The Shape of Jazz to Come,' which challenged conventional jazz norms and introduced a new level of creative freedom. Collaborated with various artists and formed the group 'Ornette Coleman Quartet,' notable for their innovative sound and improvisational style. Received the Pulitzer Prize for Music in 1994 for the album 'Sound Grammar,' solidifying a significant position in American music history.
Released 'The Shape of Jazz to Come' in 1959
Founded the Ornette Coleman Quartet
Received the Pulitzer Prize for Music in 1994
Other People Born on March 9th
Keely Smith
American singer and actress known for 'The Tonight Show'
Born
March 9th, 1928 98 years ago
Died
December 16th, 2017 8 years ago — 89 years old
Born in 1928, a prominent American singer and actress achieved recognition through a successful career in music and television. Smith gained fame as a vocalist in the 1950s, particularly for her partnership with Louis Prima. The duo's performances blended jazz and popular styles, with Smith's powerful voice complementing Prima's energetic showmanship. Smith's appearances on national television, especially on 'The Tonight Show' during the 1960s, contributed to her widespread acclaim. She also recorded several acclaimed albums showcasing her vocal ability. Her career spanned decades, during which she became known for her exceptional skills in both singing and performing. Smith continued to entertain audiences until her later years.
Continue ReadingAndrew Viterbi
Engineer and Qualcomm co-founder
Born
March 9th, 1935 91 years ago
An American engineer and businessman, co-founded Qualcomm Inc., a global leader in wireless technology. Developed the Viterbi algorithm, a fundamental statistical decoding algorithm widely used in digital communication, including mobile phones and satellite communications. Made significant contributions to coding theory and telecommunications, influencing the design and efficiency of communication systems. Served as a professor at the University of California, San Diego, influencing many through academia.
Continue ReadingJean-Baptiste Kléber
French general and military leader
Born
March 9th, 1753 273 years ago
Died
June 14th, 1800 226 years ago — 47 years old
Born in 1753, a significant figure in the French Revolutionary Wars and served as a general in the French Army. Played a crucial role in the Egyptian campaign, leading troops during the Battle of the Pyramids in 1798. After the departure of Napoleon Bonaparte, took command of French forces in Egypt and worked on establishing a French administration in Egypt. Assassinated in 1800, his legacy included contributions to military tactics and fortifications in the region.
Continue ReadingWalter Mercado
Astrologer and television personality
Born
March 9th, 1932 94 years ago
Died
November 2nd, 2019 6 years ago — 87 years old
Born in Puerto Rico, a prominent astrologer gained widespread popularity through a daily astrology segment broadcast across Latin America and the United States. This individual became a cultural icon, recognized for flamboyant style and unique predictions. Over the years, the television personality authored several books about astrology and spirituality, further establishing a loyal following. Renowned for insightful horoscopes and a distinctive approach to astrology, left a lasting legacy in the realm of metaphysical guidance.
Continue ReadingJosef Mysliveček
Czech composer of classical music
Born
March 9th, 1737 289 years ago
Died
February 4th, 1781 245 years ago — 43 years old
Born in Prague, this composer contributed significantly to the Classical music era. Primarily associated with operas and symphonies, works often showcased melodic creativity and harmonic innovation. Studied under various influential instructors and traveled extensively across Europe, particularly in Italy, where the music scene greatly influenced the composer's style. His operas were performed in prominent theaters and gained recognition for their emotional depth and lyrical beauty. Left behind a notable legacy of compositions that continued to influence later generations of musicians and composers.
Continue ReadingRobert Calvert
English singer-songwriter and playwright
Born
March 9th, 1945 81 years ago
Died
August 14th, 1988 37 years ago — 43 years old
An English singer-songwriter and playwright, contributions spanned music and theater. In the early 1970s, became a member of the space rock band Hawkwind, known for albums including "Doremi Fasol Latido" and "Warrior on the Edge of Time." Following his work with Hawkwind, embarked on a solo career with albums such as "Captain Lockheed and the Starfighters," which displayed unique storytelling and musical style. Also engaged in theatrical projects, writing plays that often incorporated elements of his musical background.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 11th
Junna
Emperor of Japan during the Heian period
Died
June 11th, 840 1186 years ago — None years old
Ascended to the throne in 823 and ruled until death in 840. His reign marked the continuation of the Heian period, a time characterized by the flourishing of Japanese culture and Buddhism. Efforts were made to support the arts and promote Buddhist practices. A significant focus was placed on consolidating political power and maintaining stability within the imperial court. The period saw developments in literature and the establishment of important religious institutions.
Continue ReadingJames III of Scotland
King of Scotland, patron of the arts
Born
July 10th, 1451 574 years ago
Died
June 11th, 1488 538 years ago — 36 years old
Ascended the throne in 1460 and ruled until 1488. Focused on strengthening royal authority and enhancing cultural life in Scotland. Promoted arts and learning, leading to the construction of significant architectural works. Engaged in conflicts with nobility, culminating in the Battle of Sauchieburn, which resulted in his death. His reign is marked by efforts to centralize power and a patronage of luxury and culture.
Continue ReadingAlice Dalgliesh
Children's book author and publisher
Born
October 7th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
June 11th, 1979 47 years ago — 85 years old
Born in Trinidad, an influential author and publisher became a prominent figure in children's literature. Relocating to the United States, established a career writing and editing. Authored several well-regarded children's books, blending engaging storytelling with educational themes. Worked as an editor for multiple publishing houses, making significant contributions to children's literature, particularly through the publication of picture books and early chapter books.
Continue ReadingJosé Mendes Cabeçadas
Portuguese admiral and politician
Born
August 19th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
June 11th, 1965 61 years ago — 81 years old
An admiral in the Portuguese Navy, served as the 9th President of Portugal from 1926 to 1926. Played a significant role during the military coup of 1926 that led to the establishment of a military dictatorship in Portugal. Before becoming president, held various naval leadership positions and contributed to military strategies. Resigned from presidency shortly after taking office due to political pressure.
Continue ReadingChesley Bonestell
American space artist and illustrator
Born
January 1st, 1888 138 years ago
Died
June 11th, 1986 40 years ago — 98 years old
A painter, designer, and illustrator, contributed significantly to the visualization of space and celestial phenomena. Worked on the first images of the surface of the Moon and Mars for NASA during the mid-20th century. Created artwork for magazine covers, science fiction books, and educational publications. Helped popularize astronomy and space exploration through art, inspiring generations.
Continue ReadingR. J. Mitchell
English engineer, designer of the Spitfire
Born
May 20th, 1895 131 years ago
Died
June 11th, 1937 89 years ago — 42 years old
An English engineer specializing in aircraft design, contributed significantly to aviation technology. Designed the Supermarine Spitfire, a fighter aircraft used extensively during World War II. Spitfire gained a reputation for its performance and effectiveness in aerial combat. Mitchell's engineering leadership and innovative designs advanced the field of aeronautics and played a crucial role in the Battle of Britain.
Continue Reading