Skip Spence
Singer-songwriter and guitarist

Born
1946
79 years ago
Died
April 16th, 1999
26 years ago — 53 years old
Category
Artists & Creatives
Country
Canada
Links & References
A Canadian-American musician, notable for pioneering psychedelic rock. Spence co-founded the influential band Moby Grape and contributed significantly to the genre's development. His solo work, particularly the album 'Oar', showcased a blend of folk and rock, emphasizing his guitar skills and songwriting abilities. Spence's career was marked by a struggle with mental health, which impacted his life and work. Despite challenges, he left a lasting legacy in the music industry.
Co-founded Moby Grape
Released the album 'Oar'
Other People Who Died on April 16th
Aphra Behn
An influential author and playwright from England, contributed significantly to the Restoration literary scene. Among the first women to earn a living by writing, produced works that explored themes of love, politics, and gender. Her most notable plays include 'The Rover' and 'The Lucky Chance', which showcased her wit and understanding of human relationships. In addition to plays, wrote novels such as 'Oroonoko', regarded as one of the earliest English novels. Contemporaries recognized her talent and defiance in a male-dominated literary world.
Continue ReadingJohn Hastings
2nd Earl of Pembroke served as a prominent English nobleman during the 14th century and played significant roles in military campaigns. Hastings participated in the English civil conflict known as the Hundred Years' War, supporting various military endeavors and asserting noble influence in England. His tenure included holding key responsibilities in governance and military operations in Wales. As an Earl, he was a member of the English nobility, which provided opportunities to shape local and national politics during a tumultuous period.
Continue ReadingGeorges-Louis Leclerc
Significant contributions were made to the fields of natural history, mathematics, and cosmology. Authored 'Histoire naturelle', a comprehensive work that detailed various aspects of the natural world, integrating scientific observations with philosophical reflection. Played a crucial role in the discourse on species classification and the evolution of life forms, impacting future studies in biology and ecology. Developed theories on the Earth's history and the concept of species changing over time, anticipating modern evolutionary ideas.
Continue ReadingPrincess Alexandra of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha
Born into German nobility, held the title of Princess of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha. Married Edward VII of the United Kingdom, becoming the Duchess of Cornwall. Served as a member of the British royal family during a period of significant social change. Engaged in various charitable works and maintained numerous royal duties throughout her life. Passed away in 1942.
Continue ReadingSamuel Smiles
An author and social reformer, contributed significantly to the genre of self-help literature. Published the influential book 'Self-Help' in 1859, which emphasized personal responsibility and the importance of hard work. Engaged in public life by advocating for education and social improvements. His writings inspired individuals to pursue self-improvement and resilience in the face of adversity. Served as a notable figure in the Victorian era with a legacy that influenced many later self-help authors.
Continue ReadingAndy Russell
Born in the United States, a singer and actor emerged as a prominent figure in the music scene. Achievements include recording multiple hit songs during the 1940s and 1950s, blending pop and Latin music styles. In the film industry, appearances included roles in 'The Big Show' and 'Lover Come Back.' Recognized for contributions to both fields, the artist garnered a loyal following and left a lasting legacy upon passing.
Continue Reading