Paul Shaffer
Music director of Late Show with David Letterman

Born
November 28th, 1949
75 years ago
Category
Performers & Entertainers
Country
Canada
Links & References
Canadian-American musician achieved prominence as the bandleader and music director for the Late Show with David Letterman from 1982 to 2015. Contributed to the rock music scene as a keyboard player and songwriter, working with various artists over a lengthy career. Released solo albums and appeared in films, bringing a blend of comedy and music to his performances. Has participated in numerous recordings and tours, showcasing versatility in the music industry.
Bandleader for the Late Show with David Letterman
Collaboration with artists like David Bowie and Paul McCartney
Other People Born on November 28th
Jaroslav Balaštík
Professional ice hockey player participated primarily in the Czech Extraliga. Career began in the late 1990s and included significant time with HC Zlin. Played internationally, representing the Czech Republic on multiple occasions. Contributed to team success with strong performances in domestic leagues and international competitions.
Continue ReadingStefan Zweig
An Austrian journalist, author, and playwright, contributed significantly to literature in the early 20th century. Works explored themes of identity, culture, and existential crisis. Gained prominence in the literary world with works such as 'The World of Yesterday,' an autobiographical reflection on pre-war Europe, and 'Letter from an Unknown Woman,' a poignant novella highlighting unrequited love. Fled Austria during the rise of Nazism, leading to a life of exile. Eventually settled in Brazil, where the later years were marked by his despair over the destruction of European culture.
Continue ReadingJoe Dante
An American director and producer, this individual emerged as a prominent figure in the film industry during the 1980s. The work in the horror-comedy genre gained widespread recognition, particularly with the release of films such as Gremlins and The Howling. Renowned for blending humor and horror elements, this director garnered a loyal fan base. Beyond directing, contributions to various projects included producing and mentoring upcoming filmmakers, solidifying a place in cinematic history. The influence extended into television, with involvement in noteworthy series like Masters of Horror.
Continue ReadingJean Cavalier
Led the Protestant Camisard insurgents during the early 18th century in France. Organized resistance against the government and fought for religious freedom. Commanded troops effectively in guerilla warfare, achieving several victories despite being outnumbered. Ultimately negotiated for the rights of Protestants in the region, resulting in a degree of toleration. In 1704, Cavalier established a reputation as a skilled military leader, leading campaigns that disrupted royal forces.
Continue ReadingAlan Ritchson
An actor, model, singer, and songwriter. Gained attention for the role of Thad Castle in the comedy series 'Blue Mountain State'. Portrayed the character Jack Reacher in the Amazon Prime series 'Reacher', based on the series of novels by Lee Child. Also appeared as Gloss in 'The Hunger Games: Catching Fire' and as Aquaman in the series 'Smallville'.
Continue ReadingJean-Baptiste Lully
An Italian-French composer and conductor, contributed significantly to the development of French opera in the 17th century. Lully became the court composer and director of music for King Louis XIV, establishing a style that combined French musical elements with Italian techniques. He founded the French opera tradition with the creation of several celebrated works, including 'Armide' and 'Atys'. Lully also played a crucial role in the ballet de cour genre, writing music for many court ballets performed at the royal court. His influence extended beyond composition, as he also established the Académie Royale de Musique, laying the groundwork for future operatic institutions in France.
Continue Reading