Spencer Dryden
American drummer for Jefferson Airplane
Born
Died
2005
20 years ago — 67 years old
Category
Performers & Entertainers
Country
United States
Links & References
Born in April 1938, a prominent drummer in the American rock band Jefferson Airplane, which achieved significant fame in the 1960s. The band was a key figure in the development of psychedelic rock and is well remembered for its performances at the Woodstock Festival in 1969. Dryden joined Jefferson Airplane in 1966, contributing to the band's iconic sound with his innovative drumming style. He played on several celebrated albums, including 'Surrealistic Pillow' and 'After Bathing at Baxter's', both critical to the counterculture movement of the era. After leaving the band in 1970, he continued to work in music, collaborating with various artists and groups throughout his career.
Played drums on Jefferson Airplane's 'Surrealistic Pillow'
Performed at Woodstock Festival in 1969
Other People Born on April 7th
Edoardo Mangiarotti
Italian fencer and Olympic champion
Born
April 7th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 93 years old
Competed in the sport of fencing, achieving significant success from the late 1930s through the 1960s. Earned numerous accolades across multiple Olympic Games, representing Italy. Demonstrated exceptional skill in both individual and team events, contributing to Italy's prominence in the sport. Secured multiple world championships and played a crucial role in elevating the standards of fencing during an era of intense competition.
Continue ReadingRalph Flanagan
American pianist and conductor of orchestras
Born
April 7th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1995 29 years ago — 81 years old
Born in 1914, a pianist, composer, and conductor contributed significantly to American orchestral music. Established a career through performance and arranging music, including popular styles of the mid-20th century. Led orchestras on national tours and recorded numerous albums, blending classical and popular genres. Achieved recognition for work on radio and television, showcasing compositions that garnered widespread appeal.
Continue ReadingJohn Bernard Flannagan
American soldier and sculptor
Born
April 7th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
1942 83 years ago — 47 years old
Born in 1895, a soldier and accomplished sculptor worked on numerous public art projects. Served in the military during World War I and later pursued a career in sculpture. Created several significant works, including the iconic "The Spirit of the American Doughboy," which commemorates World War I veterans. His artistry reflects a commitment to honoring military service through visual representation.
Continue ReadingLouise Currie
American actress in classic horror films
Born
April 7th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 100 years old
An actress appeared in several films from the 1940s to the 1950s, specializing in the horror genre. Roles included prominent parts in movies such as 'The Ghost of Frankenstein' and 'The Phantom of 42nd Street'. Worked extensively with Monogram Pictures and participated in numerous theatrical productions.
Continue ReadingMongo Santamaría
Cuban-American drummer and bandleader
Born
April 7th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
February 1st, 2003 22 years ago — 80 years old
A prominent Cuban-American drummer and bandleader, contributed significantly to the Afro-Cuban jazz genre. Studied traditional Cuban drumming techniques and integrated them into jazz, influencing many musicians. Santamaría gained attention with the hit single 'Watermelon Man', originally composed by Herbie Hancock. Throughout his career, he recorded several albums, showcasing a fusion of Cuban rhythms and jazz elements. His band often featured other notable musicians, further popularizing Latin jazz in the United States.
Continue ReadingPercy Faith
Composer and conductor of orchestral music
Born
April 7th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
February 9th, 1976 49 years ago — 67 years old
A Canadian composer and conductor achieved prominence in the mid-20th century with orchestral arrangements and recordings. Best known for popularizing easy listening music, created lush orchestral arrangements that appealed to a wide audience. Worked on multiple albums, achieving commercial success with tracks such as 'Theme from a Summer Place.' Won a Grammy Award for Best Instrumental Arrangement in 1960. Influenced the sound of numerous artists and contributed significantly to the genre of pop orchestral music.
Continue Reading