Vitamin C
Singer-songwriter and 'Graduation (Friends)' artist
Born in 1969, this American singer-songwriter gained recognition in the late 1990s. Released the self-titled debut album in 1999, featuring the hit single 'Graduation (Friends Forever),' which became a popular anthem at school graduations. The artist also contributed to the genre of pop music through songwriting and collaboration with various artists. Later works included singles that maintained a presence on the Billboard charts, showcasing continued success beyond the initial breakthrough.
Released the hit single 'Graduation (Friends Forever)'
Contributed to several successful pop albums
Other People Born on July 20th
Antoine Vermette
Canadian ice hockey player with Cup win
Born
July 20th, 1982 43 years ago
Born in 1982, one played as a centerman in the National Hockey League (NHL) for teams including the Ottawa Senators, Phoenix Coyotes, and Chicago Blackhawks. Achieved significant success during time with the Blackhawks, winning the Stanley Cup in 2015. Known for strong faceoff skills and contributions in playoff situations, one was also part of the Senators team that reached the Eastern Conference Finals in 2007. One retired from professional hockey after the 2018 season, concluding a career that spanned over a decade.
Continue ReadingMort Garson
Songwriter and composer of electronic music
Born
July 20th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
2008 18 years ago — 84 years old
Born in Canada, this songwriter and composer gained prominence in the 1960s and 1970s. He is recognized for pioneering the use of synthesizers in popular music, blending genres and creating unique soundscapes. Notable works include the albums 'Plantasia' and 'Music for Plants', which showcased innovative electronic compositions aimed at the natural world. Collaborations with artists across various genres further established a distinct style that resonated with audiences.
Continue ReadingGerd Binnig
Physicist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
July 20th, 1947 78 years ago
A German physicist studied and contributed significantly to the field of scanning tunneling microscopy. Developed the first operational scanning tunneling microscope in 1981, which allowed the imaging of surfaces at the atomic level. Shared the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1986 for the invention of this groundbreaking technology, which has applications in various scientific fields including nanotechnology and materials science. Worked in academia and continued contributing to research and education in physics throughout a distinguished career.
Continue ReadingSteven Adams
Basketball player and Oklahoma City Thunder center
Born
July 20th, 1993 32 years ago
Born in New Zealand, a professional basketball player specialized in playing as a center. Drafted by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the 2013 NBA Draft. Played several seasons with the Thunder, earning recognition for his rebounding and screen-setting abilities. Later joined the New Orleans Pelicans in 2020. Represented New Zealand in international competitions, such as the FIBA Basketball World Cup.
Continue ReadingMahmud II
Ottoman Sultan and reformer
Born
July 20th, 1789 236 years ago
Died
July 1st, 1839 186 years ago — 49 years old
Sultan during a significant period of change in the Ottoman Empire. Ruled from 1808 to 1839, initiating extensive military, administrative, and social reforms aimed at modernizing the empire. Effectively abolished the Janissary corps in 1826, which was a powerful military group. Established new educational institutions and promoted Western-style reforms within the empire. His reign also involved military campaigns that expanded and consolidated Ottoman territory.
Continue ReadingNikolaes Heinsius the Elder
Dutch poet and scholar of literature
Born
July 20th, 1620 405 years ago
Died
1681 345 years ago — 61 years old
Born in 1620, this individual contributed significantly to Dutch literature as a poet and scholar. Prominent in the literary scene, Heinsius engaged with classical works, translating and interpreting them for contemporary audiences. Extensive writings included poetry and critical essays, which influenced the poetic landscape of the time. He served as a member of the Amsterdam literary society, fostering connections among writers and intellectuals. His scholarly pursuits also included philological studies, enhancing the appreciation and understanding of classical texts in the Dutch language.
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