Stan Tracey

Jazz pianist and composer, 'The Geiger Counter'

Stan Tracey - Jazz pianist and composer, 'The Geiger Counter'
Born

December 30th, 1926
98 years ago

Died

December 6th, 2013
11 years ago — 86 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United Kingdom

Links & References

An English pianist and composer, contributed significantly to the jazz scene in the UK. Began performing in the 1940s and gained recognition in the 1960s. Led his own band and recorded numerous albums, blending elements of jazz with classical music. Achieved acclaim for compositions that showcased improvisational skills. The album 'The Geiger Counter' is often highlighted as one of his significant works. Continued to influence and mentor young jazz musicians throughout his career.

Released the acclaimed album 'The Geiger Counter'

Contributed to the UK jazz scene since the 1940s

Led his own jazz band

Other People Born on December 30th

Yvonne Brill

Engineer known for propulsion systems
Born
December 30th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
March 27th, 2013 11 years ago — 88 years old

Canadian-American scientist and engineer specialized in rocket propulsion systems. Developed advanced techniques for satellite propulsion. Contributed to the design of the propulsion system for the Mariner 2 spacecraft, which successfully flew by Venus in 1962. Worked with various aerospace organizations including NASA and was awarded the National Medal of Technology and Innovation for contributions to the field. Actively mentored young engineers and promoted women in science and engineering throughout her career.

Continue Reading

Tracey Ullman

Actress and comedian from The Tracey Ullman Show
Born
December 30th, 1959 65 years ago

Tracey Ullman is an English-American actress, singer, director, and screenwriter. She gained recognition with the television show The Tracey Ullman Show, which aired from 1987 to 1990 and featured original sketches, parodies, and music. The show's success led to the creation of The Simpsons, which was a cartoon short on the show before becoming its own long-running series. Ullman also starred in the HBO series Tracey Takes On..., showcasing her talent in sketch comedy and character work. In addition to her television work, she has released several albums and won multiple awards, including Primetime Emmy Awards for her performances. Ullman's career spans decades, blending comedy, music, and acting in various formats.

Continue Reading

Rudyard Kipling

English author and Nobel laureate
Born
December 30th, 1865 159 years ago
Died
January 18th, 1936 89 years ago — 70 years old

An author and poet, contributions include short stories, novels, and poems. Received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1907. Wrote 'The Jungle Book,' a collection of stories about a boy raised by wolves, and 'Kim,' a novel exploring British India. Other notable works include 'Just So Stories' and 'The Man Who Would Be King.'

Continue Reading

Jerry Coyne

Biologist and author of 'Why Evolution is True'
Born
December 30th, 1949 75 years ago

Contributions include research in evolutionary genetics and understanding speciation. Served as a professor at the University of Chicago, specializing in evolution and genetics. Authored several influential books, notably 'Why Evolution is True,' which presented evidence supporting evolutionary theory. Engaged in public debates about creationism and science education, promoting scientific literacy.

Continue Reading

Bryan Burk

Screenwriter and producer of films
Born
December 30th, 1968 56 years ago

An American screenwriter and producer, primarily worked in film and television. Collaborated with prominent directors such as J.J. Abrams, contributing to notable projects. Notable works include production for the 'Lost' television series and films like 'Cloverfield' and the 'Star Trek' reboot series. Associated with the production company Bad Robot Productions.

Continue Reading

Lars Boom

Dutch Cyclist with World Championships title
Born
December 30th, 1985 39 years ago

Born in 1985, a professional cyclist gained recognition in road cycling and cyclo-cross. Achievements include winning the UCI Cyclo-cross World Championships in 2008 and several national championships in both disciplines. Competed in numerous international events representing the Netherlands.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 6th

Anthony Trollope

English novelist and essayist
Born
April 24th, 1815 209 years ago
Died
December 6th, 1882 142 years ago — 67 years old

A significant figure in English literature, this individual authored numerous novels that depicted Victorian society. The most prominent works include the 'Chronicles of Barsetshire' series and 'The Way We Live Now'. As an essayist, contributed to various topics, often addressing social issues of the time. This individual balanced a career in the Post Office, alongside a prolific writing schedule, producing a substantial body of work that includes over 40 novels.

Continue Reading

César Baldaccini

French Sculptor recognized for His Works
Born
January 1st, 1921 104 years ago
Died
December 6th, 1998 26 years ago — 77 years old

Born in France in 1921, a prominent sculptor and academic gained recognition for creating large-scale contemporary sculptures. Significant contributions to art include the development of the 'compressions' technique, where materials such as scrap metal were compressed into dense forms. Participated in various exhibitions, showcasing unique sculptures made from recycled materials. In addition to sculpting, held a position as a professor, influencing future generations of artists.

Continue Reading

Roy Orbison

Singer-songwriter with iconic ballads
Born
April 23rd, 1936 88 years ago
Died
December 6th, 1988 36 years ago — 52 years old

A prominent figure in rock and pop music, this singer-songwriter gained recognition for a unique voice and emotive songs. Originating from Texas, significant success came in the early 1960s with chart-topping hits that blended rockabilly, pop, and country influences. The artist's career included collaborations with other musicians and a return to popularity in the 1980s, highlighted by the formation of the Traveling Wilburys. A distinctive style characterized by dark glasses and a solemn stage presence became part of the persona.

Continue Reading

Jeffrey Koo Sr.

Taiwanese banker and businessman
Born
September 8th, 1933 91 years ago
Died
December 6th, 2012 12 years ago — 79 years old

A prominent banker and businessman in Taiwan, played a significant role in the financial sector. Founded the Chinatrust Financial Holding Company in 1966, transforming it into one of Taiwan's largest and leading financial institutions. Held the position of chairman for many years, overseeing substantial growth and expansion of banking services in the region. Established a reputation for fostering relationships between Taiwan and international financial markets.

Continue Reading

Dobie Gray

Singer-songwriter known for 'Drift Away'
Born
July 26th, 1940 84 years ago
Died
December 6th, 2011 13 years ago — 71 years old

An American singer-songwriter and producer, known for contributions to the music industry, particularly during the 1960s and 1970s. Achieved recognition with the hit single 'Drift Away,' which became a classic and has been covered by numerous artists. His music blended elements of soul, pop, and country, appealing to a broad audience. Gray also produced tracks for other performers, expanding influence in the music scene.

Continue Reading

Charles McClendon

American football coach and player
Born
October 17th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
December 6th, 2001 23 years ago — 78 years old

Played college football at Louisiana State University. Served as head coach for the Louisiana State University football team from 1962 to 1979. Led the team to multiple bowl games, achieving notable success in the Southeastern Conference. Developed several players who went on to professional careers in the NFL.

Continue Reading