Utah Phillips

Singer-songwriter and guitarist

Utah Phillips - Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born

May 15th, 1935
90 years ago

Died

May 23rd, 2008
17 years ago — 73 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

An American singer-songwriter and storyteller, often associated with folk music and labor rights. Established a career in the 1960s, blending music with social commentary. Created a unique style by combining traditional folk songs with original compositions reflecting the struggles of working-class Americans. Worked with several musicians, contributing to the folk revival movement, and gaining a significant following. Released numerous albums, with notable works including 'Goodnight, Little Arlo' and 'The Past Didn't Go Anywhere'.

Released 'Goodnight, Little Arlo'

Contributed to the folk music revival

Other People Born on May 15th

Chris Masoe

Rugby player, 2007 Rugby World Cup winner
Born
May 15th, 1979 46 years ago

Born in 1979, a former rugby player represented New Zealand at the international level. Played as a loose forward, contributing to the All Blacks' successes during his career. Participated in the 2007 Rugby World Cup, where the team secured the championship title. Competed in Super Rugby for the Wellington Hurricanes and established a career in various international club teams after leaving New Zealand.

Continue Reading

Debendranath Tagore

Indian philosopher and author
Born
May 15th, 1817 208 years ago
Died
1905 120 years ago — 88 years old

A prominent philosopher and author, contributed extensively to the intellectual and spiritual landscape of 19th century India. Founded the Brahmo Samaj, a reformist religious and social movement that sought to promote monotheism and eradicate social evils such as caste discrimination. Actively wrote essays and literary works that explored themes of spirituality and humanism. Engaged with contemporary philosophical thought and was instrumental in the promotion of modern Indian literature.

Continue Reading

Justin Morneau

Baseball player, 2006 AL MVP
Born
May 15th, 1981 44 years ago

Played first base in Major League Baseball. Primarily associated with the Minnesota Twins, achieved distinction as an impactful player during a successful career. Garnered the Most Valuable Player award in the American League in 2006. Contributed to the Twins' division titles and playoff appearances. Represented Canada in international competition, including the World Baseball Classic.

Continue Reading

John Smoltz

Baseball pitcher and sportscaster
Born
May 15th, 1967 58 years ago

Career spanned from 1988 to 2009 as a pitcher, primarily with the Atlanta Braves. Achieved success as both a starter and a closer, demonstrating versatility on the mound. Inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 2015. Transitioned to broadcasting after retirement, providing analysis for Major League Baseball games.

Continue Reading

Paul Probst

Swiss target shooter champion
Born
May 15th, 1869 156 years ago
Died
1945 80 years ago — 76 years old

Achieved success in target shooting competitions, particularly in the early 20th century. Competed in the 1900 Summer Olympics held in Paris, where participation included various shooting events. Demonstrated exceptional skill and precision, contributing to the development of the sport within Switzerland.

Continue Reading

Jeremy Hawkins

Rugby league player; New Zealand
Born
May 15th, 1993 32 years ago

Drafted into the NRL, played for the New Zealand Warriors. Notable contributions included participation in key matches during several seasons, showcasing skills as a center and wing. Competed at an elite level in rugby league, representing the national team in international tournaments. Demonstrated a strong work ethic and athleticism on the field, contributing to the overall performance of his teams.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on May 23rd

Svetozar Boroević

Croatian-Austrian field marshal
Born
December 13th, 1856 168 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1920 105 years ago — 63 years old

A prominent military figure served in the Austro-Hungarian Army during World War I. Commanded the Austro-Hungarian forces on the Italian Front, particularly known for defensive strategies at the Battles of Caporetto and the Piave River. Led forces during the Isonzo Campaign, contributing to several significant military engagements. Recognized for leadership in challenging conditions, played a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of Austro-Hungarian defenses.

Continue Reading

Morgan Spurlock

Documentary filmmaker, Super Size Me
Born
November 7th, 1970 54 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 2024 1 years ago — 53 years old

A director, producer, and screenwriter focused on documentary films. Gained recognition with the film 'Super Size Me', which examined the fast-food industry and its impact on health. Explored various themes in subsequent works, such as consumerism and social issues. Also involved in television, contributing to projects that shed light on unique cultural phenomena and challenges.

Continue Reading

Xavier Tondo

Professional Spanish cyclist
Born
November 5th, 1978 46 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 2011 14 years ago — 32 years old

Began professional cycling career in 2001 with the ONCE-Eroski team. Competed in several major tours, including the Tour de France and Vuelta a España. Achieved significant results in the UCI ProTour. Involved in cycling events until 2011 when a tragic accident ended career. Recognized for contributions to the sport within the cycling community.

Continue Reading

Bonnie Parker

American criminal and bank robber
Born
October 1st, 1910 114 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1934 91 years ago — 23 years old

Born in Texas, pursued a life of crime alongside Clyde Barrow. Engaged in a series of bank robberies during the Great Depression, gaining notoriety across the United States. The criminal couple became legendary figures due to their escapades, evading law enforcement multiple times. Documented in numerous books and films, their story symbolizes the romanticized view of outlaws in American culture. Their life of crime ended in a shootout with law enforcement in 1934, leading to their deaths.

Continue Reading

Ismail I

First Emperor of Safavid Empire
Born
1487 538 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1524 501 years ago — 37 years old

Founded the Safavid Empire in Persia, establishing Shia Islam as the state religion. Reigned from 1501 until his death in 1524, expanding territory and centralizing power. Established cultural and religious practices that defined the empire, influencing Persian identity.

Continue Reading

Wilhelm Kempff

Pianist and composer with classical works
Born
November 25th, 1895 129 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1991 34 years ago — 95 years old

A prominent pianist and composer, celebrated for interpretations of the works of composers such as Beethoven, Schumann, and Chopin. Active during the 20th century, contributions to piano music and literature include numerous recordings and performances. Renowned for a lyrical playing style and deep emotional expression, performances at esteemed venues worldwide cemented a respected reputation in classical music. Also composed various pieces for piano, enhancing the repertoire of classical music. Educated at the Berlin Conservatory, he had a significant influence on the development of piano technique and interpretation throughout his career.

Continue Reading