Peggy Gilbert
Saxophonist and bandleader
Pioneered as a female saxophonist and bandleader in jazz and popular music during the early to mid-20th century. Led her own all-female band and performed on radio programs and at various venues. Contributed to the representation of women in the music industry, often breaking gender barriers. Worked with prominent artists and was involved in notable performances throughout her career.
Led an all-female jazz band
Performed on national radio programs
Other People Born on January 17th
Ayo Dosunmu
American Basketball Player, Chicago Bulls
Born
January 17th, 2000 25 years ago
Played college basketball at the University of Illinois, earning All-American honors in 2021. Entered the NBA after being selected by the Chicago Bulls in the 2021 draft. Contributed to the Bulls' performance in the 2021-2022 season, showcasing skills as a guard. Known for strong defensive capabilities and playmaking.
Continue ReadingTyler Zeller
Basketball player for the Cleveland Cavaliers
Born
January 17th, 1990 35 years ago
Born in 1990, this player pursued a career in professional basketball after playing college basketball at the University of North Carolina. Entered the NBA Draft in 2012 and was selected 17th overall by the Dallas Mavericks. His rights were traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers. Played for several teams during an NBA career, including the Boston Celtics and the Milwaukee Bucks, contributing to each team's efforts in various seasons.
Continue ReadingAllonzo Trier
Professional basketball player with NBA experience
Born
January 17th, 1996 29 years ago
A basketball player who played college basketball for the Arizona Wildcats. After going undrafted in the 2018 NBA Draft, signed with the New York Knicks. Made a strong impact as a rookie, demonstrating scoring ability. Played for the Knicks until 2020, before joining other teams, including the Portland Trail Blazers in the NBA.
Continue ReadingJeff Reine-Adélaïde
Footballer; played for Lyon
Born
January 17th, 1998 27 years ago
Profession started in youth academies, with significant development at the Lille OSC. Transitioned to professional football, debuting with the senior team. Played for Angers SCO, contributing to the team's campaign in Ligue 1. Signed by Olympique Lyonnais, showing skills as a midfielder. Enhanced career through loan spells with other clubs, further gaining experience in competitive leagues.
Continue ReadingDevlin DeFrancesco
Canadian race car driver with Indy Lights title
Born
January 17th, 2000 25 years ago
Born in 2000 in Canada, this individual has established a career in auto racing. Progressing through the ranks, participation in various racing series was notable, including the Indy Lights Championship. Competitor in other significant events, illustrating skills on the track. Demonstrated potential by achieving strong finishes and securing sponsorships.
Continue ReadingJake Paul
Boxer and social media personality
Born
January 17th, 1997 28 years ago
Gained popularity through social media platforms, particularly Vine and YouTube. Transitioned into professional boxing, achieving notable victories against several opponents. Also ventured into music, releasing multiple singles and music videos. Participated in high-profile boxing matches, attracting significant media attention and a large following.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 12th
Zina Bethune
Actress and choreographer of 'The Twilight Zone'
Born
February 17th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
February 12th, 2012 13 years ago — 66 years old
An actress and choreographer, Bethune built a career in the entertainment industry, especially in television and stage productions. Gained recognition for performances in the classic series 'The Twilight Zone'. Worked as a choreographer for various dance performances and collaborated with multiple artists throughout her career. Also contributed to educational programs focusing on the performing arts. Competed in various dance competitions and earned accolades for her choreography.
Continue ReadingEubie Blake
Pianist and composer of 'Shuffle Along'
Born
February 7th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
February 12th, 1983 42 years ago — 96 years old
Born in 1887, a pioneering figure in American music, particularly in the genres of ragtime and jazz. Collaborated with numerous artists and composers throughout a lengthy career, often focusing on creating music that reflected the African American experience. The musical 'Shuffle Along' debuted in 1921, becoming one of the first Broadway shows to be written, produced, and performed by African Americans, significantly influencing American musical theater. Continued to perform and compose well into the latter half of the 20th century, contributing to the cultural landscape and inspiring future generations of musicians.
Continue ReadingJean Renoir
French film director and screenwriter
Born
September 15th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
February 12th, 1979 46 years ago — 84 years old
Created influential films during the 20th century. Pioneered techniques in cinema through a blend of realism and poetic elements. Directed notable works such as 'La Grande Illusion' and 'The Rules of the Game', both critically acclaimed for their innovative storytelling and cinematography. Contributed significantly to the French film industry and influenced generations of filmmakers.
Continue ReadingPedro Morales
Professional wrestler and commentator
Born
October 22nd, 1942 83 years ago
Died
February 12th, 2019 6 years ago — 76 years old
A Puerto Rican professional wrestler and commentator became the first Latin American to win the WWE Championship, achieving this in 1971. Morales began wrestling in the 1950s and gained prominence in various wrestling promotions. Alongside championship victories, he held the Intercontinental Championship. After retiring from the ring, transitioned to commentary, contributing to the wrestling community. Morales was also a wrestling promoter in Puerto Rico.
Continue ReadingRen Xinmin
Chinese rocket scientist and engineer
Born
1915 110 years ago
Died
February 12th, 2017 8 years ago — 102 years old
Significant contributions to China's space program occurred throughout a career as a rocket scientist and engineer. Played a crucial role in several major projects involved in the development of satellite launch vehicles. Led efforts in the design and testing of the Long March rocket series, pivotal for China's space missions. Oversaw advancements in propulsion technology that facilitated the successful launch of various satellites.
Continue ReadingBetty Garrett
Actress and singer in Broadway musicals
Born
May 23rd, 1919 106 years ago
Died
February 12th, 2011 14 years ago — 91 years old
A prominent American actress, singer, and dancer, performed in Broadway musicals and films. Starred in the original Broadway production of 'On the Town' and featured in the film adaptation. Notably appeared in the television series 'Laverne & Shirley' as Edna Babish. Her career spanned several decades, captivating audiences with her talent in both musical theater and television.
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