Roland Hayes
Lyric tenor and composer in the US
Born
1887
139 years ago
Died
Category
Performers & Entertainers
Country
United States
Links & References
A prominent lyric tenor and composer, contributions included establishing a celebrated singing career in the early 20th century. Hayes gained recognition as the first African American male to achieve national fame as a concert singer. He performed in major concert halls across the United States and Europe, interpreting classical and spirituals with skill and artistry. In addition to performances, Hayes dedicated efforts to mentoring young singers and promoting the works of African American composers. His legacy includes a continued influence in the realms of classical music and American spirituals.
First African American male concert singer
Pioneered classical singing and spirituals
Other People Who Died on January 1st
Roswell B. Mason
25th Mayor of Chicago
Born
1805 221 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1892 134 years ago — 87 years old
Served as the 25th Mayor of Chicago from 1857 to 1858. Contributed to the city's governance during a period of significant growth and development. Prior to the mayoralty, held roles within the city council, influencing local legislation and administration. Practiced law and engaged in various civic activities, advocating for improvements in city infrastructure and services. Oversaw the city's response to challenges faced during rapid urbanization.
Continue ReadingArthur C. Parker
American archaeologist and historian
Born
1881 145 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1955 71 years ago — 74 years old
An archaeologist and historian primarily associated with archaeological studies in New York State. Contributed significantly to the understanding of Native American history and culture in the Northeast. Served as the first curator of the New York State Museum and played a crucial role in developing methods for archaeological investigations. Authored several important works that explored the prehistory of Native American tribes and advocated for the preservation of archaeological sites.
Continue ReadingDale Bumpers
American politician and Governor
Born
August 12th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2016 10 years ago — 90 years old
Served as the 38th Governor of Arkansas from 1971 to 1975. Bumpers was a member of the Democratic Party and represented Arkansas in the United States Senate from 1975 to 1999. During gubernatorial tenure, focused on education and infrastructure improvements. Advocated for farmers and rural communities. In the Senate, Bumpers was influential in various committees and played a significant role in legislative processes.
Continue ReadingDon Larsen
Baseball player, perfect game pitcher
Born
August 7th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2020 6 years ago — 90 years old
An American baseball player achieved prominence as a pitcher in Major League Baseball. Played primarily for the New York Yankees, notable for throwing a perfect game in the 1956 World Series against the Brooklyn Dodgers. This achievement remains a significant highlight in World Series history, marking the only perfect game ever pitched in the Series. After his stellar performance in 1956, spent time with other teams such as the Chicago White Sox and the Kansas City Athletics before retiring from professional baseball.
Continue ReadingLhasa de Sela
Singer-songwriter with 'La Llorona'
Born
1972 54 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2010 16 years ago — 38 years old
Born in 1972, a singer-songwriter combined elements of folk, rock, and traditional Mexican music. Raised in a multicultural environment in the United States and Mexico, began performing in various venues. Released debut album, 'La Llorona', in 1997, which gained critical acclaim. Continued to explore themes of love and loss in subsequent albums, 'The Living Road' (2003) and 'Last Days of the Sun' (2009). Passed away in 2010, leaving a lasting influence on contemporary music.
Continue ReadingWilliam Mgimwa
Tanzanian Minister of Finance
Born
January 20th, 1950 76 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2014 12 years ago — 63 years old
Served as the 13th Minister of Finance in Tanzania, overseeing the country’s financial policies and economic management. Contributed to the development of fiscal strategies that aimed to stabilize the economy during a time of change. Held various positions in the banking sector prior to entering politics, enhancing expertise in financial systems and governance. Advocated for economic reforms and transparency within the government while engaging with international financial institutions to improve Tanzania's economic standing.
Continue Reading