Ric Ocasek
Rock band frontman and producer
Singer-songwriter, guitarist and producer originated from Maryland but gained prominence in the late 1970s as the lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist for the rock band The Cars. The band achieved significant commercial success with hit songs such as "Just What I Needed," "Shake It Up," and "Drive." Ocasek also contributed to the band’s distinctive sound through his innovative production techniques. Outside of his work with The Cars, Ocasek produced albums for several artists, demonstrating a wide-ranging influence in the music industry. His contributions were recognized when The Cars were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2018.
Fronted the rock band The Cars
Produced albums for various artists
Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
Other People Born on March 23rd
Dmitrij Jaškin
Ice Hockey Player, KHL Champion
Born
March 23rd, 1993 32 years ago
Born in 1993, this professional ice hockey player competed in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) and the National Hockey League (NHL). Originating from Russia and later representing the Czech Republic, achieved success with the Dynamo Moscow team, winning the KHL Championship. Played in the NHL for the St. Louis Blues and the Washington Capitals. A skilled forward, contributed significantly during his tenure in various leagues.
Continue ReadingLudwig Minkus
Austrian composer of ballet music
Born
March 23rd, 1826 199 years ago
Died
December 7th, 1917 108 years ago — 91 years old
Born in Austria, contributed significantly to 19th-century ballet music. Composed a variety of works that became staples in ballet repertoire. Worked with prominent ballet companies, particularly in Russia. His music for ballets such as 'Don Quixote' and 'La Bayadère' achieved enduring popularity and are regularly performed worldwide. Minkus's compositions were characterized by their melodic richness and ability to complement dance performances effectively.
Continue ReadingBette Nesmith Graham
Inventor of Liquid Paper correction fluid
Born
March 23rd, 1924 101 years ago
Died
1980 45 years ago — 56 years old
An American inventor developed a correction fluid called Liquid Paper in the 1950s. Initially created to assist in correcting typing errors during her time as a secretary, the product gained significant popularity in office environments. Founded a company to market Liquid Paper and successfully expanded distribution. The product became a staple for typists and writers, leading to widespread use in schools and businesses. The success of Liquid Paper contributed to her financial independence and established a legacy in office supplies.
Continue ReadingGordon Hayward
Professional basketball player with All-Star status
Born
March 23rd, 1990 35 years ago
Played college basketball for Butler University, leading the team to the NCAA Championship game in 2010. Selected 9th overall in the 2010 NBA Draft by the Utah Jazz. Played for the Jazz until 2017, earning an NBA All-Star selection in 2017. Signed with the Boston Celtics in 2017, where he contributed to playoff runs, including the Eastern Conference Finals. In 2020, signed with the Charlotte Hornets.
Continue ReadingYevgeny Grishin
Speed Skater, Olympic Gold Medalist
Born
March 23rd, 1931 94 years ago
Died
July 9th, 2005 20 years ago — 74 years old
Competitor in speed skating during the late 20th century. Achieved significant success at national and international levels. Won a gold medal in the men's 500 meters at the 1960 Winter Olympics in Squaw Valley. Additionally earned multiple titles at World Championships, showcasing exceptional skills in long-distance and sprint events. Contributed to the development of the sport in Russia.
Continue ReadingEleanor Cameron
Children's author and literary critic
Born
March 23rd, 1912 113 years ago
Died
October 11th, 1996 29 years ago — 84 years old
A Canadian-American author focused on children's literature, became renowned for the writing of fantasy and science fiction for young audiences. First published in the late 1940s, title 'The Green and Golden Age' gained significant recognition. Contributed to literary criticism, reviewing and analyzing children's books, which helped shape the understanding of children's literature. Involved in various educational initiatives aimed at promoting reading among children and was influential in the literary community.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 15th
Edmund Crispin
English writer and composer of mysteries
Born
October 2nd, 1921 104 years ago
Died
September 15th, 1978 47 years ago — 56 years old
A writer and composer from England. Best known for engaging mysteries, particularly the series featuring amateur detective Gervase Fen. The first novel, 'The Moving Toyshop', was published in 1946 and received critical acclaim. Additionally, contributed to the literary world through short stories and essays. Also composed music for films and radio.
Continue ReadingBill Evans
American jazz pianist and composer
Born
August 16th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
September 15th, 1980 45 years ago — 51 years old
An influential jazz pianist and composer, this individual significantly shaped the development of modern jazz piano. Active from the late 1940s until the early 1980s, contributions included unique harmonic and rhythmic concepts that enriched the jazz genre. The collaboration with the Miles Davis Sextet led to the creation of the seminal album 'Kind of Blue', which is considered one of the greatest jazz albums of all time. Additionally, numerous recordings as a bandleader showcased innovative arrangements and a lyrical style.
Continue ReadingElias Khoury
Lebanese playwright and novelist
Born
July 12th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
September 15th, 2024 1 years ago — 76 years old
An influential figure in contemporary Lebanese literature, contributions span novels, essays, and plays. Explored themes of identity, memory, and history, often reflecting the complexities of the Lebanese Civil War. Significant works include 'Gate of the Sun', which presents a narrative of Palestinian exile and suffering. Engagement in cultural and political discourse, advocating for the rights of marginalized communities through literary expression.
Continue ReadingLinnie Marsh Wolfe
American librarian and author
Born
January 8th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
September 15th, 1945 80 years ago — 64 years old
Contributions included work as a librarian and authorship of numerous novels and children's books. Writings often reflected a deep understanding of literature and showcased various narrative styles. Active in literary circles, engaged with different literary societies and contributed to professional libraries, focusing on improving library services and accessibility. Significant involvement in promoting library science as a field.
Continue ReadingJune Salter
Australian actress in film and television
Born
June 22nd, 1932 93 years ago
Died
September 15th, 2001 24 years ago — 69 years old
An Australian actress established a career in film, television, and theatre spanning several decades. Salter started her career in the 1950s, performing in various Australian productions. She gained notable recognition for her role in the television series 'The Sullivans', portraying the character of Grace Sullivan. Salter also appeared in films such as 'The Devil's Playground' and 'The Night We Tied the Leigh', showcasing her range as an actress. Her contributions to the performing arts included work for the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, where she featured in numerous radio and television programs. Salter's dedication to the craft resulted in a loyal following and a lasting legacy in the Australian entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingRobert Penn Warren
American novelist and poet
Born
April 24th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
September 15th, 1989 36 years ago — 84 years old
Born in 1905, this American novelist, poet, and literary critic contributed significantly to American literature. He co-founded 'The Southern Review', a prominent literary magazine, and authored several acclaimed works. The novel 'All the King's Men', published in 1946, received the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1947. He published numerous volumes of poetry and remained active in literary criticism throughout his career. Warren was also involved in academia, teaching at various universities, and served as the first Poet Laureate Consultant in Poetry to the Library of Congress in 1986.
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