Robert Johnson
American blues singer-songwriter and guitarist
A major figure in the development of the Delta blues genre, this artist's music influenced generations of musicians. Recording only a few songs in his lifetime, many became iconic, including pieces like 'Cross Road Blues' and 'Sweet Home Chicago.' His mysterious life and untimely death at age 27 have contributed to his legend. The guitarist's unique style incorporated various techniques, showcasing a blend of melody and rhythm that was ahead of its time. Posthumously, his work gained recognition and is considered foundational to modern blues and rock music.
Recorded 'Cross Road Blues' and 'Sweet Home Chicago'
Influenced musicians from various genres
Other People Born on May 8th
Melissa Gilbert
Actress and director of Little House
Born
May 8th, 1964 61 years ago
An American actress and director recognized for work in television and film. Achieved prominence through the role of Laura Ingalls Wilder in the series 'Little House on the Prairie.' Directed episodes of both 'Little House on the Prairie' and 'The Wonder Years.' Contend in various dramatic and comedy roles throughout a lengthy career, including appearances in stage productions and reality television.
Continue ReadingClaes Rålamb
Swedish statesman and diplomat
Born
May 8th, 1622 403 years ago
Died
March 14th, 1698 327 years ago — 75 years old
A prominent figure in 17th-century Sweden, served as an influential statesman and diplomat. Held the position of Envoy Extraordinary to France and participated in various diplomatic missions. Played a vital role in negotiations during the Treaty of Karlowitz. Engaged in the governance of Sweden, contributing to the political landscape of the era. His efforts in diplomacy and statecraft were significant during a tumultuous period in Swedish history.
Continue ReadingRay Whitney
Ice hockey player with Stanley Cup victory
Born
May 8th, 1972 53 years ago
A professional ice hockey player with a career spanning over 20 seasons in the NHL. Played for several teams including the New York Rangers, Edmonton Oilers, and Carolina Hurricanes. Achieved the Stanley Cup with the Carolina Hurricanes in 2006. Contributed significantly as a forward with notable scoring ability and playmaking skills.
Continue ReadingMladen Markač
Croatian General, Operation Storm leader
Born
May 8th, 1955 70 years ago
Born in 1955, a Croatian general served prominently during the Croatian War of Independence. Commanded the 1st Guards Brigade and played a significant role in Operation Storm, a major military offensive that contributed to the end of the conflict. After the war, held various positions within the Croatian military and government. In 2011, acquitted of war crimes charges by the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia, leading to a focus on military reform and veterans' affairs in Croatia.
Continue ReadingDarren Hayes
Singer-songwriter, lead of Savage Garden
Born
May 8th, 1972 53 years ago
A prominent figure in pop music, gained recognition as the lead vocalist of the duo Savage Garden. The duo achieved worldwide success with hit singles such as "Truly Madly Deeply" and "I Knew I Loved You." Following the group’s disbandment, pursued a solo career, releasing several albums, including "Spin" and "The Tension and the Spark." Contributed to the music industry with a distinctive voice and emotional songwriting.
Continue ReadingAnthony Field
Australian guitarist and children's entertainer
Born
May 8th, 1963 62 years ago
A significant figure in children's entertainment, contributed as a guitarist, songwriter, and producer. Co-founded the children's band The Wiggles in 1991, which became a pivotal entity in children's music and education. Engaged in television projects aiming to entertain and educate young audiences, achieving widespread popularity in Australia and internationally. Also acted in various productions connected to The Wiggles, enhancing the brand's reach and influence in family entertainment.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 16th
Aretha Franklin
Singer-songwriter, 'Respect'
Born
March 25th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
August 16th, 2018 7 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent American singer-songwriter and pianist, this artist became a leading figure in soul music. Born in Memphis and raised in Detroit, began singing in church at a young age. The career spanned several decades, with numerous hit records and albums. Achievements include a historic signing with Atlantic Records and the release of the groundbreaking album 'I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You'. Instrumental in popularizing soul music, received multiple Grammy Awards and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Additionally, contributed to the civil rights movement through music and public efforts.
Continue ReadingHoward S. Becker
American sociologist and social theorist
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
August 16th, 2023 2 years ago — 95 years old
Contributions focused on the sociology of deviance, education, and art. Developed labeling theory, which examined the impact of societal labels on individuals. Authored several influential works, including 'Outsiders' (1963), which explored the concept of deviance and how society constructs norms. Engaged in both qualitative research and participant observation, emphasizing the importance of understanding social contexts.
Continue ReadingAnna Kashfi
Indian-American actress from 'The Last Train'
Born
September 30th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
August 16th, 2015 10 years ago — 80 years old
Born in 1934, this Indian-American actress gained recognition for a number of roles during the 1950s and 1960s. Significant work includes a prominent performance in the film 'The Last Train' alongside notable actors. This career spanned several decades, with appearances in both film and television productions, which showcased talents in a variety of character roles. The actress earned acclaim for her performances, contributing to a rich cinematic tradition.
Continue ReadingSean Lock
Comedian and actor, notable for panel shows
Born
April 22nd, 1963 62 years ago
Died
August 16th, 2021 4 years ago — 58 years old
A British comedian and actor gained recognition for his work on television, particularly in panel shows. Lock contributed to '8 Out of 10 Cats' as a team captain and appeared in 'The Lock In' and 'Sean Lock: Keep It Light'. His stand-up comedy earned acclaim, with multiple televised performances and specials throughout his career. He also acted in sitcoms and was involved in numerous charity events related to his craft.
Continue ReadingJohn McLaughlin
Guitarist and songwriter, Mahavishnu Orchestra
Born
January 4th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
August 16th, 2016 9 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent figure in the jazz fusion genre, this English guitarist and songwriter helped bridge the gap between rock and jazz music. In the late 1960s and early 1970s, formed the Mahavishnu Orchestra, a pioneering band known for its complex time signatures and virtuosic players. The band's debut album, 'The Inner Mounting Flame,' received critical acclaim and solidified its place in music history. Over the years, collaborated with various notable artists, contributing significantly to the development of fusion music. Continued to perform and record, maintaining a lasting influence on guitarists and musicians across genres.
Continue ReadingAzzone Visconti
Italian nobleman and ruler of Milan
Born
December 7th, 1302 723 years ago
Died
August 16th, 1339 686 years ago — 36 years old
Born into the Visconti family, Azzone became the Duke of Milan in the early 14th century. His rule was marked by efforts to solidify the power of the Visconti dynasty in Lombardy. Managed to expand the territories under his control and strengthen urban governance. Acted as a key player in the political landscape of Northern Italy, consolidating power through marriage alliances and military might. Oversaw significant infrastructure projects that enhanced the city of Milan.
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