Ray Noble

English bandleader and composer

Ray Noble - English bandleader and composer
Born

December 17th, 1903
121 years ago

Died

April 3rd, 1978
47 years ago — 74 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United Kingdom

Links & References

A prominent bandleader and composer, contributed significantly to the development of big band music in the early 20th century. Established a successful orchestra that gained popularity in the 1930s, performing in both the United Kingdom and the United States. Composed notable pieces and served as a musical director for various radio shows and films. Participated in the early growth of the British jazz scene and collaborated with many prominent artists of the era.

Led the Ray Noble Orchestra

Composed 'Little Slice of Heaven'

Worked with famous artists like Al Bowlly

Other People Born on December 17th

Alex Cintrón

Baseball player and sportscaster
Born
December 17th, 1978 46 years ago

Professional baseball player played primarily as an infielder. Played in Major League Baseball for teams including the Chicago White Sox and the Arizona Diamondbacks. Transitioned to sports broadcasting after retiring from playing, providing analysis and commentary on baseball.

Continue Reading

Haron Keitany

Kenyan long-distance runner and athlete
Born
December 17th, 1983 41 years ago

Achieved prominence as a long-distance runner specializing in marathons. Competed successfully on the international stage and secured multiple podium finishes. Won the 2012 Rotterdam Marathon, finishing in a personal best time. Participated in various other notable races, demonstrating consistent performance throughout competitive career.

Continue Reading

André Ayew

Ghanaian footballer, captain of national team
Born
December 17th, 1989 35 years ago

This footballer has played as a winger and attacking midfielder. He began his professional career with Marseille in France before moving to various clubs across Europe, including Swansea City and Al Ahli. A key player for the Ghana national team, he has participated in multiple Africa Cup of Nations tournaments and the FIFA World Cup. His leadership on the field earned him the captaincy of the national team, where he contributed significantly during international competitions.

Continue Reading

Frank Winterstein

Rugby league player with NRL experience
Born
December 17th, 1986 38 years ago

A rugby league player who played in the National Rugby League (NRL) primarily for the Manly Warringah Sea Eagles. Originating from Australia and Samoa, contributed to both club and international rugby league. Played in the forward position, showcasing skills and athleticism on the field. His career spanned several years, with notable performances that demonstrated strong playing abilities.

Continue Reading

Alan Khan

South African radio and TV presenter
Born
December 17th, 1971 53 years ago

A prominent figure in South African media, he built a career as a radio and television presenter. The work spanned multiple formats, including live shows and interviews, contributing to the entertainment landscape of the country. Notable for engaging audiences with a blend of humor and insight, he hosted programs that connected with South African culture and society. His contributions expanded the reach of radio and television broadcasting in the region, fostering a loyal fanbase.

Continue Reading

Sotiris Kaiafas

Cypriot footballer and international player
Born
December 17th, 1949 75 years ago

A Cypriot footballer played as a forward. Joined Anorthosis Famagusta and contributed significantly to the team's successes during the 1970s. Played for the national team of Cyprus, earning multiple caps and scoring key goals in international matches. Retired from professional football after a notable career in domestic leagues, leaving a lasting legacy in Cypriot football.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on April 3rd

Masaharu Homma

Japanese general during WWII
Born
November 27th, 1887 137 years ago
Died
April 3rd, 1946 79 years ago — 58 years old

Served as a general in the Imperial Japanese Army during World War II. Commanded Japanese forces during the Battle of the Philippines in 1942, leading to the Bataan Death March. Captured by American forces after Japan's surrender, faced war crimes trial in 1945. Executed in 1946 for actions taken during the war.

Continue Reading

Juan Trippe

Airline Executive, founded Pan Am
Born
June 27th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
April 3rd, 1981 44 years ago — 81 years old

An influential businessman established Pan American World Airways, shaping the commercial aviation industry. Under leadership, Pan Am initiated transcontinental flights and was the first airline to operate a scheduled passenger service across the Atlantic Ocean in 1939. The airline became a landmark in international travel, pioneering innovations like jet service and on-board luxury. Trippe played a critical role in promoting air travel and expanding the global aviation network.

Continue Reading

Bob Burns

Drummer and songwriter for Lynyrd Skynyrd
Born
November 24th, 1950 74 years ago
Died
April 3rd, 2015 10 years ago — 64 years old

A drummer and songwriter, contributions included significant work with the Southern rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd. Instrumental in the band's early success, participated in albums that shaped the genre. Known for performances that showcased unique drumming styles, played on classic tracks that became staples in rock music. Involved with the band during its rise to fame and contributed to the iconic sound that defined Southern rock.

Continue Reading

Kurt Weill

Pianist and composer of 'Threepenny Opera'
Born
March 2nd, 1900 125 years ago
Died
April 3rd, 1950 75 years ago — 50 years old

Born in Germany and later became a naturalized American, contributed significantly to the world of music as a composer and pianist. Developed a unique style that blended classical music with jazz and popular music elements. Best known for the collaboration with playwright Bertolt Brecht, leading to the creation of 'The Threepenny Opera' in 1928, which became a cornerstone of the Weimar culture. Moved to the United States in 1935, where continued to compose, producing works such as 'Street Scene' and 'Lady in the Dark'. Influenced the American musical theater landscape through innovative compositions.

Continue Reading

June Brown

English actress from EastEnders
Born
February 16th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
April 3rd, 2022 3 years ago — 95 years old

An English actress, recognized for a long-standing role in the television series EastEnders. Portrayed the character Dot Cotton for over three decades, becoming a significant figure in British soap opera. The portrayal spanned from 1985 to 2020, showcasing a character noted for her distinctive personality and engaging storylines. Additionally, appeared in various stage productions, television shows, and films, contributing to the arts in a notable career.

Continue Reading

Milton Caniff

American cartoonist and graphic storyteller
Born
February 28th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
April 3rd, 1988 37 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent cartoonist, contributed to the field of comics with groundbreaking works. Created the popular comic strips 'Terry and the Pirates' and 'Steve Canyon'. The innovative storytelling techniques and detailed illustrations set a new standard within the industry. Received multiple awards, including the National Cartoonists Society's Milton Caniff Hall of Fame Award. His work influenced generations of artists and writers in the comic strip medium.

Continue Reading