Ted Weems
American bandleader and musician
A prominent American violinist, trombonist, and bandleader, contributed significantly to the big band era of the 1930s and 1940s. Led the Ted Weems Orchestra, which gained popularity in the swing music scene. The band was known for lively arrangements and energetic performances, often featuring vocalists. The ensemble recorded numerous hits and became a staple on radio shows. In addition to music, also made appearances in films during this period.
Led the Ted Weems Orchestra
Produced several popular recordings
Other People Born on September 26th
Sun Li
Chinese actress, star of 'The Legend of Zhen Huan'
Born
September 26th, 1982 43 years ago
Born in 1982, this actress gained recognition in the Chinese entertainment industry. She rose to fame with her role in the television drama 'The Legend of Zhen Huan', where she portrayed the complex character of Zhen Huan. This performance solidified her status as a prominent figure in Chinese television. Over the years, she starred in numerous popular series and films, contributing to her significant following. Her work often showcased her range as an actress, from historical dramas to contemporary stories.
Continue ReadingWilliam McKell
Australian lawyer and politician
Born
September 26th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
January 11th, 1985 40 years ago — 93 years old
Served as the 12th Governor-General of Australia from 1947 to 1953. Before this role, pursued a career in law and held various political positions. Represented the Australian Labor Party and contributed to numerous legislative initiatives during a prominent political career. Involved in community service and educational reforms throughout tenure. Resigned as Governor-General in 1953, returning to public life in various capacities.
Continue ReadingNorm Dussault
Ice Hockey Player, Stanley Cup Champion
Born
September 26th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 87 years old
An accomplished ice hockey player, participated in the National Hockey League during the 1950s. Played primarily as a forward, contributing to team strategies and scoring efforts. Notable for tenure with the Montreal Canadiens, where achievements included winning the Stanley Cup. After retiring from playing, transitioned to coaching and mentoring young athletes in the sport.
Continue ReadingShannon Hoon
Singer-songwriter and guitarist of Blind Melon
Born
September 26th, 1967 58 years ago
Died
October 21st, 1995 30 years ago — 28 years old
A singer-songwriter and guitarist, contributed to the alternative rock scene in the early 1990s as the lead vocalist of Blind Melon. The band gained significant popularity with the release of their self-titled debut album in 1992, which included the hit single 'No Rain.' The song received extensive radio play and became a defining track of the decade. Hoon's distinctive voice and emotive lyrics resonated with audiences, establishing him as a notable figure in the music industry. The band's second album, 'Soup,' released in 1995, continued to showcase Hoon's talents. Hoon's struggles with substance abuse were publicly documented, and despite a promising career, his life was cut short in 1995 at the age of 28.
Continue ReadingGeorge Raft
American actor in classic gangster films
Born
September 26th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
November 24th, 1980 45 years ago — 79 years old
An American actor achieved prominence during the 1930s and 1940s. Gained recognition for roles in gangster films, particularly in 'Scarface' (1932) and 'They Drive by Night' (1940). Portrayed a smooth-talking, tough character archetype that became iconic in the film noir genre. Worked with notable directors and actors such as Howard Hawks and Humphrey Bogart. For a portion of his career, he struggled with typecasting but continued to deliver performances that resonated with audiences. Transitioned into television in later years, maintaining a presence in the entertainment industry until retirement.
Continue ReadingJulie London
Singer and actress in 'Emergency!'
Born
September 26th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
October 18th, 2000 25 years ago — 74 years old
An American singer and actress rose to prominence in the mid-20th century. London began her career in the 1940s and gained popularity for her sultry voice and unique style in jazz and pop music. As a singer, her albums achieved commercial success, particularly her 1955 release 'Julie Is Her Name'. In addition to music, London starred in television and film, with a significant role in the series 'Emergency!' from 1972 to 1979, which contributed to her recognition as an actress. Throughout her career, her contributions to both fields left a lasting legacy.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 6th
Ernest MacMillan
Canadian conductor and composer
Born
August 18th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
May 6th, 1973 52 years ago — 79 years old
A prominent conductor and composer, this figure played a significant role in Canadian music. In the early 20th century, served as the principal conductor of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra and founded the Toronto Conservatory of Music. Compositions included orchestral works, choral pieces, and songs. Actively promoted Canadian music and composers through conducting and teaching. Served as the president of the Canadian Music Council, influencing the development of music in Canada.
Continue ReadingWilliam H. Dana
American astronaut and engineer
Born
November 3rd, 1930 95 years ago
Died
May 6th, 2014 11 years ago — 83 years old
An engineer and astronaut with significant contributions to space exploration, played a vital role in human spaceflight missions. Participated in the Skylab program, overseeing science payload operations and engaging in experiments. Worked with NASA, enhancing spacecraft systems and safety measures. After retirement, contributed to aerospace engineering in various capacities.
Continue ReadingGiulio Andreotti
Italian politician, Prime Minister of Italy
Born
January 14th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
May 6th, 2013 12 years ago — 94 years old
Served multiple terms as Prime Minister of Italy, notably from 1972 to 1973 and again from 1991 to 1992. Engaged in politics following a career in journalism, contributing to major Italian political parties. Held various ministerial roles, including Minister of Defence and Minister of Foreign Affairs. Involved in Italian Parliament for several decades, shaping the political landscape during the Cold War and the post-war period.
Continue ReadingNinmyō
Japanese emperor during Heian period
Born
September 27th, 808 1217 years ago
Died
May 6th, 850 1175 years ago — 41 years old
A Japanese emperor reigned from 834 to 850 during the Heian period. Ascended to the throne following the abdication of predecessor. Oversaw a time characterized by cultural growth and the establishment of a court-centered society. His reign coincided with the flourishing of literature, poetry, and art, solidifying the Heian period as a significant era in Japanese history. Contributed to the stability of the imperial court and the continuation of established traditions amid various challenges. Passed away at a relatively young age, marking the end of his short reign but leaving behind a lasting legacy in Japanese governance.
Continue ReadingL. Frank Baum
American novelist and author of Oz
Born
May 15th, 1856 169 years ago
Died
May 6th, 1919 106 years ago — 62 years old
Active during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a novelist wrote children's books, with the most recognized work being 'The Wonderful Wizard of Oz', published in 1900. This book became a classic in children's literature and led to a series of sequels exploring the Land of Oz. In addition to writing, involvement in theater was significant, contributing to adaptations of the Oz stories for the stage. Various artistic forms, including illustrations and musicals, were influenced by the characters and themes originated in the Oz series.
Continue ReadingBernard Pivot
French journalist and talk show host
Born
May 5th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
May 6th, 2024 1 years ago — 89 years old
A prominent French journalist and talk show host, contributed significantly to the French media landscape. Created and hosted the literary talk show "Apostrophes" from 1975 to 1990, engaging authors and intellectuals in discussions about literature and culture. Later hosted "Bouillon de Culture," which focused on contemporary topics and featured interviews with a wide range of personalities. Worked as a producer and provided a platform for numerous writers and thinkers, enhancing the cultural discourse in France.
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