Vangelis
Greek composer of electronic music
A celebrated Greek composer and keyboard player, made significant contributions to electronic music. Gained worldwide fame for composing film scores, particularly for 'Chariots of Fire' which won an Academy Award for Best Original Score. Also created the iconic score for 'Blade Runner', which became highly influential in the genre. Worked extensively with synthesizers and innovative techniques that shaped modern soundtracks. Released numerous albums that explored various musical styles and themes throughout a prolific career.
Composed the Academy Award-winning score for 'Chariots of Fire'
Created the score for 'Blade Runner'
Other People Born on March 29th
Michael Brecker
American Saxophonist and Composer
Born
March 29th, 1949 77 years ago
Died
January 13th, 2007 19 years ago — 57 years old
A prominent saxophonist and composer, contributed significantly to jazz and contemporary music. Played tenor and soprano saxophones and was a vital figure in the New York jazz scene. Brecker's work included collaborations with numerous musicians across various genres. Released several influential albums as a bandleader and noted for intricate improvisational skills. Contributed to over 900 recordings, showcasing versatility in jazz and pop. Brecker also won multiple Grammy Awards for outstanding performances.
Continue ReadingWade Baldwin IV
Professional basketball player
Born
March 29th, 1996 30 years ago
Born in 1996, this American basketball player played college basketball at Vanderbilt University. After declaring for the NBA Draft, he was selected in the second round by the Memphis Grizzlies in 2016. Baldwin made a name for himself in the NBA, demonstrating strong skills as a guard. After his stint with the Grizzlies, he played for several teams, including the Portland Trail Blazers and the Toronto Raptors, and also had international experience, playing professionally in Europe.
Continue ReadingMatt Olson
Major League Baseball first baseman
Born
March 29th, 1994 32 years ago
A professional baseball player, played as a first baseman for the Oakland Athletics and Atlanta Braves. Made his major league debut in 2016 and became a significant contributor to the team's offense. Achieved multiple All-Star selections and won a Gold Glove award for defensive excellence. Known for impressive power-hitting ability, consistently ranking among league leaders in home runs.
Continue ReadingPJ Morton
American musician and Grammy-winning producer
Born
March 29th, 1981 45 years ago
An accomplished musician, singer, songwriter, and record producer, recognized for blending elements of R&B, funk, and pop. Gained prominence as a member of the band Maroon 5, contributing to several of their albums. Established a successful solo career, with notable releases including 'Gumbo' and 'Paul'. Achieved Grammy recognition, winning awards for Best Contemporary R&B Album and Best Gospel Album. Collaborated with various artists across genres, showcasing versatility and innovative production techniques.
Continue ReadingJames Tomkins
English footballer with Crystal Palace
Born
March 29th, 1989 37 years ago
Played as a central defender in professional football. Started career at West Ham United, making over 250 appearances. Transferred to Crystal Palace in 2016, contributing to the team’s Premier League campaigns. Represented England at various youth levels, showcasing defensive skills on the field. Known for strong performances in domestic league matches and cup competitions.
Continue ReadingThorgan Hazard
Professional footballer, Borussia Dortmund
Born
March 29th, 1993 33 years ago
Born in 1993, a professional footballer played as a winger. Developed early career at Lille OSC, later transferred to Chelsea FC but did not make first-team appearances. Loan spells in Belgium and Germany followed, with significant contributions at Borussia Mönchengladbach. Achieved recognition for skillful play and scoring ability. Joined Borussia Dortmund in 2019, helping the team in national and European competitions.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 17th
Herman Wouk
American novelist and Pulitzer Prize winner
Born
May 27th, 1915 111 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2019 7 years ago — 103 years old
A prominent American novelist, one of the most recognized works includes 'The Caine Mutiny,' which depicts a military court trial during World War II. Another significant novel, 'War and Remembrance,' explores the experiences of a Jewish family during the Holocaust. Wouk's writing often addresses themes of faith, morality, and the human condition, reflecting his Jewish background and experiences. He received widespread acclaim and several awards throughout his career, including the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1952 for 'The Caine Mutiny.' His literary works have been adapted into successful films and television series, further extending their reach and influence.
Continue ReadingAl-Qa'im bi-Amr Allah
Fatimid Caliph during the 10th century
Died
May 17th, 946 1080 years ago — None years old
Ascended to the Fatimid Caliphate in 934 and ruled until death in 946. Oversaw the period of consolidation in the empire and maintained control over regions including North Africa and parts of the Middle East. His rule marked efforts to establish Ismaili Shi'ism within the territories governed by the Fatimids, promoting religious activities and political stability.
Continue ReadingPanagis Tsaldaris
Greek politician, Prime Minister of Greece
Born
May 17th, 1868 158 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1936 90 years ago — 68 years old
Served as Prime Minister of Greece during significant political periods. Held office at different times from 1921 to 1924 and again from 1933 to 1935. Participated extensively in the political landscape of Greece during the interwar years, shaping policies and governance. Elected multiple times to the Hellenic Parliament, contributed to legislative developments and national discussions. Engaged in various political movements and alignments reflecting the challenges faced by Greece during this era.
Continue ReadingLiu Jianfeng
Chinese warlord during the Five Dynasties
Died
May 17th, 896 1130 years ago — None years old
During the Five Dynasties period, one warlord played a significant role in regional politics and military conflicts. This figure seized power and ruled with authority over the region, establishing a foothold amid the fragmentation of the Tang Dynasty's influence. The reign extended through tactical warfare and alliances with other military leaders. Despite the chaotic political environment, the warlord maintained control over territories and engaged in numerous battles, solidifying a legacy in Chinese history through military prowess and governance.
Continue ReadingDaumantas of Pskov
Lithuanian prince and military leader
Died
May 17th, 1299 727 years ago — None years old
Born around 1240, this prince served as the ruler of Pskov in the late 13th century. His reign is characterized by military campaigns against the Teutonic Knights and efforts to consolidate power in the region. Under his leadership, Pskov successfully resisted external threats while maintaining autonomy. The prince's actions contributed to shaping the political landscape of the area during a tumultuous period marked by conflicts over territorial control and influence. Daumantas's legacy persisted beyond his death in 1299, impacting the future governance of Pskov and its relationships with neighboring states.
Continue ReadingGo-Fushimi
Emperor of Japan during the Nanboku-chō period
Born
1288 738 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1336 690 years ago — 48 years old
Ascended to the throne in 1287, serving as the 96th emperor of Japan during a tumultuous period marked by imperial conflict. The reign was characterized by the Nanboku-chō period, which involved the division of loyalty between competing imperial lines. Go-Fushimi's era included ongoing power struggles, notably between the Northern and Southern courts. After abdication in 1298, remained an influential figure during the continued efforts to unify the imperial seat. Passed away in 1336.
Continue Reading