Rod McKuen

Singer-songwriter and poet

Rod McKuen - Singer-songwriter and poet
Born

April 29th, 1933
92 years ago

Died

January 29th, 2015
10 years ago — 81 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

A prominent singer-songwriter and poet, contributed significantly to popular music and literature during the 20th century. Best known for poetic lyrics in albums such as 'The Sea' and 'Listen to the Warm'. Garnered acclaim for melodic compositions in the folk and pop genres. Authored numerous poetry collections, which further solidified a reputation as a respected literary figure. Collaborated with various artists and achieved commercial success in both music and publishing, leaving a lasting legacy in American culture.

Released the album 'Listen to the Warm'

Wrote the poetry collection 'The Sea'

Composed music for the film 'The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie'

Other People Born on April 29th

Fiamē Naomi Mataʻafa

Samoan politician, 7th Prime Minister
Born
April 29th, 1957 68 years ago

Served as the 7th Prime Minister of Samoa, taking office in 2021. Became the first woman to hold this position in the country's history. Held various governmental roles throughout a lengthy political career, including Minister of Education, Sports and Culture. Contributed to significant policy reforms in education and women's rights.

Continue Reading

Irvin Kershner

Film director of The Empire Strikes Back
Born
April 29th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
November 27th, 2010 14 years ago — 87 years old

A film director, producer, and actor, recognized for directing the iconic film The Empire Strikes Back, the second installment of the original Star Wars trilogy. Kershner's work in the film industry extended beyond directing as he also contributed to various projects as a producer and screenwriter. His career spanned several decades, during which he developed a reputation for his innovative storytelling and unique directorial style. Additionally, Kershner directed films such as Never Say Never Again, a James Bond film, and the 1983 sci-fi film Robocop.

Continue Reading

Adam Smith

English footballer, AFC Bournemouth player
Born
April 29th, 1991 34 years ago

Born in 1991, a professional footballer from England. Played as a defender, primarily known for time with AFC Bournemouth in the EFL Championship and Premier League. Developed through youth systems and made notable contributions to the team's success.

Continue Reading

Candace Owens

Political commentator and activist
Born
April 29th, 1989 36 years ago

Contributed to conservative discourse through political commentary and media appearances. Served as a spokesperson for Turning Point USA and hosted the podcast 'Candace'. Engaged in debates on social issues and policies, focusing on topics related to race, feminism, and economic freedom. Authored the book 'Blackout: How Black America Can Make Its Second Escape from the Democratic Plantation', presenting a conservative perspective on the African American community's political landscape.

Continue Reading

Phillip Noyce

Film director and producer - 'The Quiet American'
Born
April 29th, 1950 75 years ago

An Australian director and producer, recognized for a dynamic body of work in film. Directed 'Dead Calm', a thriller that gained critical acclaim, and 'The Quiet American', based on the novel by Graham Greene, which showcased a nuanced portrayal of complex geopolitical themes in Vietnam. Produced movies across genres and collaborated with various actors, contributing significantly to the Australian film industry and cinema worldwide.

Continue Reading

Mary Petty

Illustrator, Created iconic magazine art
Born
April 29th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
1976 49 years ago — 77 years old

An illustrator born in 1899, Petty contributed significantly to American art through magazine illustrations. Recognized for work in publications such as The New Yorker, she captured social commentary with wit and charm in her drawings. Her unique style resonated with readers during her active years, making her a distinctive voice in the illustration community. Petty's art often featured the subtleties of everyday American life, showcasing her remarkable ability to convey humor and insight through simple yet elegant compositions.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on January 29th

Vera Hall

American folk singer with iconic recordings
Born
1902 123 years ago
Died
January 29th, 1964 61 years ago — 62 years old

A prominent folk singer, Vera Hall gained recognition for her powerful vocals and traditional songs rooted in African American culture. Hall's style drew heavily from the spiritual music of the South, showcasing a unique blend of emotional depth and authenticity. She recorded several albums, contributing to the preservation of folk music and influencing future generations of musicians. Her recordings were featured in documentaries and archives, further cementing her legacy in American folk music.

Continue Reading

André-Hercule de Fleury

French cardinal and Chief Minister
Born
1653 372 years ago
Died
January 29th, 1743 282 years ago — 90 years old

Served as a prominent cardinal in the Catholic Church and held the position of Chief Minister under King Louis XV. Oversaw a period of administrative reform and economic recovery in France during his tenure. Promoted policies that aimed to stabilize the kingdom after years of turmoil. Advocated for a focus on peace and diplomacy in foreign relations, leading to a reduction in military engagements. His leadership helped in redistributing wealth and improving the state of public finances.

Continue Reading

Hans Hedtoft

Danish politician and Prime Minister
Born
1903 122 years ago
Died
January 29th, 1955 70 years ago — 52 years old

Served as Prime Minister of Denmark from 1947 to 1950 and again from 1953 until death in 1955. Played a significant role in post-World War II reconstruction and political stabilization in Denmark. Engaged in efforts for social reform and the expansion of democratic governance. Contributed to the development of the Social Democrats as a leading political force during this period.

Continue Reading

George S. Messersmith

American diplomat and ambassador
Born
1883 142 years ago
Died
January 29th, 1960 65 years ago — 77 years old

Served as an influential American diplomat throughout the mid-20th century. Held the position of United States Ambassador to Poland and Chile, contributing to the development of U.S. foreign policy in Latin America and Europe. Participated in significant diplomatic negotiations during pivotal moments of international relations. Played a key role in strengthening intercultural dialogue between the United States and European nations. Worked for the State Department for several decades, where experiences shaped international relations during tumultuous global events.

Continue Reading

Ephraim Kishon

Israeli author and screenwriter
Born
August 23rd, 1924 100 years ago
Died
January 29th, 2005 20 years ago — 80 years old

An Israeli author, screenwriter, and director contributed significantly to literature and film. First published in the 1950s, produced a range of humorous works that captured the essence of Israeli life. Wrote popular satirical columns, and plays that were performed on stages around the world. Many works translated into multiple languages, increasing global readership. Directed films based on his writings, achieving success in the Israeli film industry. Received numerous awards for both literary contributions and film productions.

Continue Reading

Oscar Luigi Scalfaro

Italian politician and 9th President
Born
September 9th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
January 29th, 2012 13 years ago — 93 years old

Served as the 9th President of Italy from 1992 to 1999. Prior to the presidency, held various roles including Minister of the Interior and President of the Chamber of Deputies. Played a significant role in Italian politics, especially during the turbulent period of the early 1990s, which saw the end of the First Republic. Advocated for stronger democratic institutions and contributed to the drafting of Italy's Constitution. Engaged in numerous initiatives concerning social justice and international cooperation.

Continue Reading