Vernon Duke
Composer and songwriter of jazz standards
A composer and songwriter, contributed significantly to American music with a focus on jazz and popular songs. Emigrated from Russia to the United States, where collaborations with notable lyricists led to the creation of many enduring pieces. Composed music for Broadway shows, including 'Cabin in the Sky' and 'Good News'. His works have been performed and recorded by numerous artists, cementing a legacy within the American songbook.
Composed 'Autumn in New York'
Wrote music for 'Cabin in the Sky'
Collaborated with various notable lyricists
Other People Born on October 10th
Chris Ofili
British painter renowned for The Holy Virgin Mary
Born
October 10th, 1968 57 years ago
A prominent painter emerged in the 1990s, recognized for unique and colorful artworks that blend African culture and contemporary themes. Explored subjects of identity and spirituality through diverse materials, including elephant dung. Gained significant attention for the 1996 painting 'The Holy Virgin Mary', which sparked debate and discussion regarding cultural representation in art. His work often incorporates personal symbolism and elaborate patterns, reflecting a fusion of different influences and his Nigerian heritage.
Continue ReadingDaniel Pearl
Journalist and Wall Street Journal reporter
Born
October 10th, 1963 62 years ago
Died
2002 23 years ago — 39 years old
A journalist worked for the Wall Street Journal, covering international topics with a focus on South Asia. Researched and wrote articles regarding economic and political issues in the region. Kidnapped and murdered in Pakistan while investigating a story in 2002, which led to widespread condemnation and discussions about journalistic safety. The tragic event highlighted the dangers faced by journalists in conflict zones.
Continue ReadingRebecca Pidgeon
Singer-songwriter and actress
Born
October 10th, 1965 60 years ago
Born in 1965, this American-English singer-songwriter and actress gained recognition for contributions to both music and film. As a singer-songwriter, released several acclaimed albums, including 'The Raven' and 'Tough on Crime'. In addition to music, acted in films such as 'The Spanish Prisoner' and 'The Winslow Boy'. Pidgeon has woven storytelling into lyrics, showcasing a blend of folk and pop influences.
Continue ReadingHenry Cavendish
Physicist and chemist, discovered hydrogen
Born
October 10th, 1731 294 years ago
Died
February 24th, 1810 215 years ago — 78 years old
A physicist and chemist contributed to the understanding of gases and chemical composition. Conducted experiments that established hydrogen as a distinct element, originally naming it 'inflammable air'. Known for the precise measurement of the Earth's density, Cavendish conducted the renowned Cavendish experiment in 1798, which allowed calculations of the gravitational constant. His meticulous data collection and analysis laid foundational work for later developments in chemistry and physics.
Continue ReadingAdam Johann von Krusenstern
Imperial Russian Admiral and explorer
Born
October 10th, 1770 255 years ago
Died
1846 179 years ago — 76 years old
Born in 1770, served as an admiral in the Imperial Russian Navy and led the first Russian circumnavigation of the globe from 1803 to 1806. This expedition attempted to establish a trade route with North America and provided valuable data on geography and local populations. The endeavor contributed significantly to Russia's maritime knowledge and presence in the Pacific.
Continue ReadingJosh Giddey
Australian basketball player, Oklahoma City Thunder
Born
October 10th, 2002 23 years ago
Played professional basketball in the NBA for the Oklahoma City Thunder. Giddey gained attention for exceptional passing skills and court vision. In 2022, became the youngest player in NBA history to record a triple-double. Known for his contributions during his rookie season, significantly impacting team performance and earning accolades for skillful play.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 16th
Lady Eve Balfour
Organic farming pioneer and educator
Born
July 16th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
January 16th, 1990 35 years ago — 91 years old
A British farmer and educator contributed significantly to the organic movement. Established the Haughley Research Trust in 1943 to promote organic agriculture. Authored 'The Living Soil' in 1943, which detailed the importance of soil health and organic farming practices. Actively engaged in public education regarding sustainable agriculture and the health of the soil throughout her life.
Continue ReadingJim McClelland
Australian lawyer and Minister for Industry
Born
1915 110 years ago
Died
January 16th, 1999 26 years ago — 84 years old
Served as the 12th Minister for Industry and Science, contributing to policy development in Australia's industrial and scientific sectors. Worked as a prominent lawyer and jurist, influencing legal frameworks and industry regulation. Advocated for advancements in technology and research throughout tenure in government, with a focus on promoting Australian innovation.
Continue ReadingPrince Arthur
Duke of Connaught and Strathearn
Born
May 1st, 1850 175 years ago
Died
January 16th, 1942 83 years ago — 91 years old
Became the Duke of Connaught and Strathearn in 1874. Served as the Governor General of Canada from 1911 to 1916, overseeing significant changes in the country during World War I. Actively involved in various military duties, including service in the British Army during the Second Boer War and World War I, where he held the rank of major-general. Contributed to the development of organizations focused on education and social welfare.
Continue ReadingPhil Spector
American record producer, songwriter
Born
December 26th, 1939 85 years ago
Died
January 16th, 2021 4 years ago — 81 years old
A record producer and songwriter, this figure is recognized for creating the 'Wall of Sound' production technique. His career began in the 1950s, producing hit records for several artists. Collaborated with acts such as The Ronettes and The Crystals. Gained significant acclaim for productions that included the iconic track 'Be My Baby'. Spector's work in the music industry significantly shaped the sound of popular music in the 1960s. Later, he faced legal troubles culminating in a conviction for murder.
Continue ReadingAmilcare Ponchielli
Italian composer of operas and symphonies
Born
August 31st, 1834 191 years ago
Died
January 16th, 1886 139 years ago — 51 years old
An Italian composer and academic, contributions to the operatic genre include 'La Gioconda', which debuted in 1876 and remains a staple in the operatic repertoire. Ponchielli also held a position at the Milan Conservatory, where he influenced the next generation of musicians. His works reflected the rich traditions of Italian opera, blending lyrical melodies with dramatic themes, providing a profound influence on composers that followed.
Continue ReadingArnold Böcklin
Swiss painter famous for mythological works
Born
October 16th, 1827 198 years ago
Died
January 16th, 1901 124 years ago — 73 years old
An artist who contributed significantly to Symbolism and post-Romanticism art movements. Böcklin's work often included mythological and fantastical themes, marked by rich color palettes and intricate detail. Influenced by his travels across Europe, especially in Italy, the artist's style was characterized by the blending of reality and fantasy. He produced several iconic pieces that explored the relationships between nature, humanity, and the divine. His most famous painting, 'Isle of the Dead', became a seminal work that inspired generations of artists and exhibited a haunting atmosphere reflecting themes of death and the afterlife.
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