Ric Ocasek

Rock band frontman and producer

Ric Ocasek - Rock band frontman and producer
Born

March 23rd, 1944
81 years ago

Died

September 15th, 2019
5 years ago — 75 years old

Category

Performers & Entertainers

Country

United States

Links & References

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

Barry Cryer

Comedian and screenwriter, wrote for TV
Born
March 23rd, 1935 90 years ago
Died
2022 3 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent British comedian, actor, and screenwriter, Cryer began his career in the 1950s and was a regular contributor to radio and television shows. He gained recognition for his work on 'The Two Ronnies' and 'Countdown.' Throughout his career, he collaborated with many notable figures in comedy and entertainment, contributing to numerous sketches, jokes, and scripts. Cryer also performed stand-up comedy and was a frequent guest on various talk shows and panel programs, showcasing his wit and humor. His legacy in British comedy is marked by a long-standing presence in the industry, along with his role in shaping modern comedic writing.

Continue Reading

Brandon Marshall

American football wide receiver, Pro Bowler
Born
March 23rd, 1984 41 years ago

Played as a wide receiver in the National Football League (NFL) for multiple teams, including the Denver Broncos, Miami Dolphins, and Chicago Bears. Achieved notable success while with the Chicago Bears, where a record of 1,508 receiving yards was set in the 2013 season. Featured in the Pro Bowl multiple times during career, showcasing skills as a top athlete in professional football. Additionally contributed to the sport through advocacy for mental health awareness.

Continue Reading

Ugo Tognazzi

Italian actor in comedic films
Born
March 23rd, 1922 103 years ago
Died
October 27th, 1990 34 years ago — 68 years old

Successful career in Italian cinema spanned several decades, showcasing a talent for comedy and drama. Gained recognition through collaborations with notable directors and appeared in over 100 films. Achieved acclaim for performances in films such as "La Mandrágola" and "Amici Miei." Received the David di Donatello award for Best Actor in 1972, solidifying reputation as a leading figure in Italian film.

Continue Reading

Moses Malone

Basketball player and three-time MVP
Born
March 23rd, 1955 70 years ago
Died
September 13th, 2015 9 years ago — 60 years old

A professional basketball player played primarily as a center in the NBA. Achieved recognition for exceptional rebounding skills and scoring ability. Enjoyed a successful career spanning from 1974 to 1995, playing for teams including the Houston Rockets, Philadelphia 76ers, and Atlanta Hawks. Contributed to the 76ers' 1983 NBA Championship victory. Earned three Most Valuable Player (MVP) awards, the first player in NBA history to achieve this feat consecutively. Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2001.

Continue Reading

Jahanara Begum

Mughal princess and political figure
Born
March 23rd, 1614 411 years ago
Died
1681 344 years ago — 67 years old

Born into the Mughal dynasty, played a significant role in the political landscape of India. As the daughter of Emperor Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal, influenced court politics during a time of significant cultural and architectural development. Jahanara was a patron of the arts and literature, and her contributions included the commissioning of several architectural projects, most notably the construction of the Jahanara Mosque in Lahore. Served as a trusted advisor to her father, showcasing political acumen during the early years of his reign. Promoted cultural synthesis through her patronage, which included poetry and painting. Jahanara's legacy is marked by her status in the Mughal court and her artistic contributions, reflecting the richness of Mughal culture.

Continue Reading

Alexander Albon

Formula 1 driver and 2021 Thai driver
Born
March 23rd, 1996 29 years ago

Competed in Formula 1 with teams including Toro Rosso and Red Bull Racing. Achieved a podium finish at the 2020 Tuscan Grand Prix. Albon's career started in karting before moving to single-seaters and then to Formula Renault. Transitioned to Formula 1 in 2019 and earned recognition for strong performances and consistency, notably scoring points in multiple races.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on September 15th

Alessandro Rolla

Italian violinist and composer
Born
1757 268 years ago
Died
September 15th, 1841 183 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent figure in the 18th and early 19th centuries, contributed significantly to the development of violin techniques and pedagogy. Served as the first violinist in the prestigious Teatro alla Scala in Milan. Composed numerous works, including concertos, chamber music, and instructional treatises for violin. Influenced future generations of violinists and composers through innovative teaching methods.

Continue Reading

Aldemaro Romero

Venezuelan pianist and composer
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
September 15th, 2007 17 years ago — 79 years old

A prominent pianist, composer, and conductor from Venezuela, contributions spanned various musical genres including classical and popular music. Romero studied at the Conservatorio de Música de Caracas, and later, his career included performing with numerous orchestras. He was a key figure in the development of Venezuelan music and its global representation. His work included the exploration and promotion of traditional Venezuelan music forms, leading to the creation of various orchestral arrangements that incorporated folkloric elements. In addition to performing, he directed the Venezuelan Symphony Orchestra during the 1970s and was involved in music education.

Continue Reading

Johnny Ramone

Guitarist for The Ramones punk band
Born
October 8th, 1948 76 years ago
Died
September 15th, 2004 20 years ago — 55 years old

An American guitarist and songwriter, gained recognition as a founding member of the punk rock band The Ramones. Contributed to the band's distinct sound with a signature style characterized by simple, fast-paced guitar riffs. Instrumental in the creation of classic albums such as 'Ramones', 'Rocket to Russia', and 'Road to Ruin'. Played a key role in defining the punk rock genre in the 1970s. Known for a disciplined approach to music and a commitment to the band's aesthetic throughout its career.

Continue Reading

Colin McRae

Rally car driver; 1995 World Champion
Born
August 5th, 1968 56 years ago
Died
September 15th, 2007 17 years ago — 39 years old

A celebrated rally car driver, achieved notable success in the 1990s and early 2000s. Secured the World Rally Championship title in 1995 while driving for Subaru. Played a significant role in popularizing the sport, known for skillful driving and competitive spirit. Competed in various prestigious events, including the Dakar Rally. Tragically died in a helicopter crash in 2007.

Continue Reading

Geoffrey Fisher

English Archbishop, leader in Anglican Church
Born
1887 138 years ago
Died
September 15th, 1972 52 years ago — 85 years old

Served as the Archbishop of Canterbury from 1945 to 1961. Played a significant role in rebuilding the Anglican Church post-World War II. Participated in ecumenical discussions aimed at fostering unity among Christian denominations. Helped promote the Church of England's involvement in global issues.

Continue Reading

Raymond Baxter

Television host and pilot
Born
January 25th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
September 15th, 2006 18 years ago — 84 years old

Baxter served as a prominent English television host and was notable for hosting the BBC's coverage of significant events, including the Apollo Moon landings and the first broadcast of the Monty Python's Flying Circus. He was also an accomplished pilot, demonstrating this skill during various TV segments focused on aviation. His career spanned several decades, with a strong presence in the British media landscape, influencing the way scientific and technological advancements were presented to the public.

Continue Reading