Ricky Wilson

English singer-songwriter and band leader

Ricky Wilson - English singer-songwriter and band leader
Born

January 17th, 1978
47 years ago

Died

October 12th, 1985
39 years ago — 7 years old

Category

Performers & Entertainers

Country

United Kingdom

Links & References

A singer-songwriter, achieved prominence as the lead vocalist of the band Kaiser Chiefs. The band debuted with the album Employment, which featured the hit single I Predict a Riot. This single contributed to the band's rise in popularity within the UK indie rock scene. In addition to musical accomplishments, participated as a judge on the television series The Voice UK, showcasing talent in music and entertainment.

Lead vocalist of Kaiser Chiefs

Hit single I Predict a Riot

Judge on The Voice UK

Other People Born on January 17th

Dalida

Singer and actress, 'Bambino'
Born
January 17th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1987 38 years ago — 54 years old

Born in Egypt and later moving to France, a significant career spanned several decades in music and film. Rose to prominence in the late 1950s with the hit single 'Bambino', which became a major milestone. Recorded songs in multiple languages including French, Italian, Arabic, and Spanish. Acted in films such as 'The Tontons Flingueurs' and 'Sirocco'. Achieved substantial success across the globe, earning numerous awards throughout a storied career.

Continue Reading

Ita Buttrose

Australian journalist and author
Born
January 17th, 1942 83 years ago

A prominent Australian journalist and author, contributions include leadership roles in various media organizations. Played a significant role as the founding editor of 'Cleo' magazine, influencing women's publishing. Achievements extend to a successful television career, hosting shows such as 'Beauty and the Beast'. Authored several books, focusing on health and social issues, and received recognition for work in the media and as a public advocate.

Continue Reading

Thomas Fairfax

English general and Member of Parliament
Born
January 17th, 1612 413 years ago
Died
November 12th, 1671 353 years ago — 59 years old

Served as a key military leader during the English Civil War. Commanded the New Model Army, achieving crucial victories against royalist forces. Held the position of commander-in-chief for Parliamentary forces, playing a significant role in the conflict that ultimately led to the establishment of the Commonwealth. Additionally, participated in negotiations following the war, influencing the future political landscape of England.

Continue Reading

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 Reading

Andy Kaufman

Comedian and actor of 'Taxi' fame
Born
January 17th, 1949 76 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1984 41 years ago — 35 years old

Born in 1949, a performer gained notoriety in the 1970s and 1980s. Initially became popular as a comedian with unique, unconventional performances. Gained wider fame for portraying Latka Gravas on the television series 'Taxi.' Achieved success in wrestling, engaging in notable matches and feuds, particularly with Jerry Lawler. Blended performance art and comedy, often blurring the lines between reality and illusion. His approach influenced future generations of comedians and performers.

Continue Reading

Archibald Bower

Scottish historian and author
Born
January 17th, 1686 339 years ago
Died
September 3rd, 1766 258 years ago — 80 years old

A Scottish historian and author, contributions focused on the history of England and Scotland during the early 18th century. Authored several works that investigated various historical aspects, particularly in relation to national identity and politics. Became involved in scholarly debates of the time, offering interpretations of historical events and figures. Later life included a focus on historical analysis regarding the Protestant Reformation and its impacts on society. Engaged in discussions surrounding the nature of historians and the reliability of their narratives.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on October 12th

Jackmaster

Scottish DJ and record producer
Born
1986 39 years ago
Died
October 12th, 2024 0 years ago — 38 years old

A prominent figure in electronic music, gained recognition as a DJ and record producer. Helped pioneer the house music scene in Scotland and contributed significantly to the global electronic music landscape. Founded the label Numbers, which became a vital platform for underground artists. Known for energetic and eclectic sets that blended various genres, including techno, house, and disco. Performed at major music festivals and events worldwide.

Continue Reading

Ali Mazrui

Political Scientist and Philosopher
Born
February 24th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
October 12th, 2014 10 years ago — 81 years old

Born in 1933, a prominent political scientist and philosopher, focused on African studies and the relationship between Africa and the West. Mazrui served as a professor at various institutions, including the State University of New York and the University of Illinois. He gained recognition through his television series, 'The Africans: A Triple Heritage,' which explored African identity and culture. His work critically examined the interplay between culture, politics, and history in shaping African societies.

Continue Reading

Jean Ribault

French-American navigator and lieutenant
Born
1520 505 years ago
Died
October 12th, 1565 459 years ago — 45 years old

Served as a lieutenant and navigator during the French exploration of North America. Ribault led expeditions along the Atlantic coast, including the founding of Charlesfort in present-day South Carolina in 1562. He played a crucial role in French attempts to establish a colony in Florida, primarily aimed at expanding French influence in the New World. Ribault also engaged in interactions with Indigenous peoples during these expeditions. His naval expeditions between France and the Americas significantly contributed to the exploration efforts of that era.

Continue Reading

Serge Poliakoff

Painter with abstract geometric works
Born
January 8th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
October 12th, 1969 55 years ago — 69 years old

Born in 1900, a Russian-French painter specialized in abstract art and geometric compositions. His artistic style was characterized by bold colors and fluid forms. Initially trained in Russia, relocated to Paris in the 1920s, where he became part of the vibrant art scene. Worked primarily with oil paints, achieving recognition in the post-war period. Poliakoff's pieces usually featured a rich palette and explored the interaction of color and form. Exhibited in numerous galleries and museums, his works became highly sought after by collectors worldwide.

Continue Reading

Norm Grabowski

Hot rod builder and actor in American films
Born
1933 92 years ago
Died
October 12th, 2012 12 years ago — 79 years old

A notable figure in the automotive world, contributions included innovative hot rod designs that influenced car culture. In acting, appearances included television shows like 'The Munsters' and films such as 'American Graffiti'. Became a well-respected icon within the hot rod community through various builds and exhibitions.

Continue Reading

Matthew Shepard

Hate crime victim and LGBTQ+ symbol
Born
December 1st, 1976 48 years ago
Died
October 12th, 1998 26 years ago — 21 years old

Born in 1976, this individual became a symbol of the plight against hate crimes targeting the LGBTQ+ community after suffering a brutal attack in 1998. The incident garnered national attention and highlighted issues of homophobia and violence. Following the tragic death, advocacy efforts surged, leading to increased awareness and legislative changes regarding hate crime laws in the United States.

Continue Reading