Peggy Lee

American singer and songwriter

Peggy Lee - American singer and songwriter
Born

May 26th, 1920
105 years ago

Died

January 21st, 2002
23 years ago — 81 years old

Category

Performers & Entertainers

Country

United States

Links & References

Peggy Lee was an American jazz and pop singer, songwriter, and actress. Active from the 1940s through the 2000s, she made significant contributions to the music industry. Lee began her career with the Benny Goodman Orchestra and gained prominence for her unique vocal style and emotive performances. Her work spanned several decades, and she recorded numerous hits, including 'Fever' and 'Is That All There Is?'. Lee also wrote songs that became standards and collaborated with notable artists throughout her career. She earned numerous accolades, including Grammy Awards and an Academy Award nomination for her performance in 'Pete Kelly's Blues'.

Recorded hit songs 'Fever' and 'Is That All There Is?'

Performed with the Benny Goodman Orchestra

Nominated for an Academy Award for 'Pete Kelly's Blues'

Won multiple Grammy Awards

Other People Born on May 26th

Christfried Burmeister

Estonian speed skater and champion
Born
May 26th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
July 12th, 1965 60 years ago — 67 years old

Born in 1898, a speed skater represented Estonia in international competitions. Participated in the 1924 Winter Olympics in Chamonix, competing in several events. Contributed to the development of speed skating in Estonia during the early 20th century.

Continue Reading

Muriel McQueen Fergusson

Canadian Speaker of the Senate
Born
May 26th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
April 11th, 1997 28 years ago — 97 years old

A Canadian lawyer and politician, served as the first female Speaker of the Senate from 1972 to 1974. Contributed to various legislative reforms and advocated for women's rights. Engaged in public service and participated in multiple committees, promoting equality and social progress. Resided in New Brunswick throughout much of life.

Continue Reading

Peter Cushing

English actor, 'Star Wars' and 'Dracula'
Born
May 26th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
August 11th, 1994 31 years ago — 81 years old

An English actor primarily recognized for roles in horror and science fiction films. Gained prominence through performances in Hammer Horror films, particularly as Van Helsing in 'Dracula'. Portrayed Grand Moff Tarkin in 'Star Wars: A New Hope', contributing to the film's iconic status. Enjoyed a lengthy career with appearances in television and film throughout the mid-20th century, establishing a lasting legacy in genre cinema.

Continue Reading

Michael Portillo

Journalist and TV presenter, railroad journeys
Born
May 26th, 1953 72 years ago

A prominent British journalist and television presenter, this individual served as a Member of Parliament and held the position of Secretary of State for Defence in the 1990s. Transitioning to a media career, he hosted various documentaries, with particular focus on railway journeys across the UK and Europe. The series 'Great British Railway Journeys' significantly contributed to popularizing railway heritage, showcasing destinations and historical insights, while blending travel with historical narrative.

Continue Reading

Mick Ronson

Guitarist and producer for Bowie
Born
May 26th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
April 29th, 1993 32 years ago — 46 years old

A prominent guitarist, songwriter, and producer from England, contributed significantly to glam rock. Worked closely with David Bowie, particularly on the album 'The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars'. Played guitar on several classic Bowie tracks and albums. Formed the band Spiders from Mars, which became a key part of Bowie's early 1970s sound. Also collaborated with Lou Reed, producing and playing on 'Transformer', which included the hit 'Walk on the Wild Side'. Later pursued a solo career, achieving recognition for the albums 'Slaughter on 10th Avenue' and 'Play Don't Worry'.

Continue Reading

Percy Perrin

English cricketer and first-class player
Born
May 26th, 1876 149 years ago
Died
1945 80 years ago — 69 years old

Born in 1876, this individual played cricket primarily for Essex and had a first-class career that spanned from 1897 to 1914. He was a right-handed batsman and a right-arm medium-fast bowler. Over his career, he participated in numerous matches, showcasing his skills in both batting and bowling. His contributions helped shape the early years of the club's competitive stature.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on January 21st

Acharya Shivpujan Sahay

Indian author and academic
Born
1893 132 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1963 62 years ago — 70 years old

An Indian author, poet, and academic, contributed significantly to Hindi literature. Focused on themes related to Indian culture and society. Published several books and essays that emphasized the importance of education and literature in national development. Worked as a professor, shaping the minds of future generations through academic engagement and literary works. Actively participated in the cultural renaissance during the early 20th century, influencing various literary movements.

Continue Reading

Ann Sheridan

American actress and singer
Born
February 21st, 1915 110 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1967 58 years ago — 51 years old

This actress gained prominence in the 1930s and 1940s through roles in notable films. Significant performances included leading roles in 'Kings Row' and 'They Drive by Night'. She was recognized for her strong screen presence and was a popular figure in Hollywood during that era. Additionally, she sang and appeared in musical films, showcasing versatility. Throughout a career that spanned several decades, she maintained a notable status in the film industry, continuing to take on various roles until the 1960s.

Continue Reading

Archie Hahn

Runner and coach; Olympic gold medalist
Born
September 14th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1955 70 years ago — 74 years old

This individual was a prominent runner and coach in the early 20th century. Competed in the 1904 Summer Olympics, winning three gold medals in the 60 meters, 100 meters, and 200 meters events. Represented the United States in international competitions and contributed to the training of future athletes. Later served as a coach at various levels, influencing many in the sport of track and field.

Continue Reading

Albert Lortzing

German actor and composer of operas
Born
October 23rd, 1801 223 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1851 174 years ago — 49 years old

Pioneered the operetta genre in Germany. Acted in and composed works that combined spoken dialogue with music. His compositions often featured themes of social issues and national identity. Lortzing's most notable works include 'Zar und Zimmermann' and 'Der Wildschütz', both of which reflect a blend of humor and drama. His contributions significantly shaped the landscape of German musical theater during the 19th century.

Continue Reading

Bassel al-Assad

Syrian politician and heir apparent
Born
1962 63 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1994 31 years ago — 32 years old

Bassel al-Assad was the designated successor to the presidency of Syria. As the son of Hafez al-Assad, he was groomed for leadership within the Syrian government. Bassel held the position of a prominent military officer and was heavily involved in the country's political dynamics. He focused on modernizing the Syrian military and was involved in various civil enterprises aimed at fostering technological advancement in the region. Unfortunately, his life was cut short in a car accident in 1994, which altered the political landscape of Syria as it transitioned to his younger brother's leadership.

Continue Reading

George Washington Goethals

American general overseeing Panama Canal
Born
June 29th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1928 97 years ago — 69 years old

An American general and engineer played a pivotal role in the construction of the Panama Canal. Appointed as the chief engineer of the Panama Canal project, led efforts that successfully completed the canal, an engineering marvel connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Oversaw the transition from French to American construction efforts and implemented significant health measures to control diseases such as yellow fever and malaria that plagued workers. Was appointed as the first governor of the Panama Canal Zone after the canal's completion, managing its operations and governance.

Continue Reading