Vladimír Merta

Czech singer-songwriter and journalist

Vladimír Merta - Czech singer-songwriter and journalist
Born

January 20th, 1946
79 years ago

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

Czech Republic

Links & References

Career began in the 1960s as a singer-songwriter, focusing on folk music. Achieved prominence in Czechoslovakia's music scene during the Prague Spring. Merta's music often reflected sociopolitical themes, earning recognition for its poignant lyrics and melodies. Associated with various Czech cultural movements and contributed to the alternative music scene. His work extended into journalism, addressing issues of society and culture.

Released albums such as 'Cikánka' and 'Krajina s Děvčetem'

Contributed to the alternative music movement during the Prague Spring

Other People Born on January 20th

Greg K.

Musician and songwriter, co-founder of The Offspring
Born
January 20th, 1965 60 years ago

Originated as a musician and songwriter, played bass guitar for the punk rock band The Offspring. The Offspring released the highly successful album "Smash" in 1994, which achieved multi-platinum status. The band contributed to the mainstream popularity of punk rock during the 1990s. In addition to musical pursuits, engaged in various side projects and collaborations throughout the career.

Continue Reading

Nick Foles

American football quarterback, Super Bowl MVP
Born
January 20th, 1989 36 years ago

Played as a quarterback in the National Football League (NFL). Foles started his career with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he gained recognition for his performance during the 2013 season, finishing with 27 touchdown passes and a passer rating of 119.2. He returned to the Eagles in 2017 and led the team to victory in Super Bowl LII, earning the Super Bowl MVP award for his efforts, which included throwing for 373 yards and three touchdowns. Foles also had stints with other teams, including the St. Louis Rams, Kansas City Chiefs, and Chicago Bears.

Continue Reading

Kevin Parker

Australian musician and producer
Born
January 20th, 1986 39 years ago

A prominent Australian singer and songwriter, recognized for creating the musical project Tame Impala. Composed and produced critically acclaimed albums including 'Lonerism' and 'Currents', which incorporated elements of psychedelic rock and pop. Conducted extensive touring and performed at major music festivals worldwide. Gained a significant following for blending various genres, showcasing both songwriting and production skills.

Continue Reading

Simon Marius

German astronomer, discovered Jupiter's moons
Born
January 20th, 1573 452 years ago
Died
1624 401 years ago — 51 years old

An astronomer and academic, contributions included early observations of the planets. Formulated a systematic approach to observing celestial bodies. The publication of 'Mundus Iovialis' detailed discoveries of Jupiter's four largest moons: Io, Europa, Ganymede, and Callisto. This work provided significant insights into the structure of the solar system during the early 17th century.

Continue Reading

Ken Page

American actor and cabaret singer
Born
January 20th, 1954 71 years ago
Died
September 30th, 2024 0 years ago — 70 years old

An actor and cabaret singer, gained recognition for performances in various theater productions, particularly in musicals. Extensive work includes roles on Broadway, especially noted for the character of 'Old Deuteronomy' in the original production of 'Cats'. Also achieved acclaim for contributions to film and television, including a memorable role in 'The Nightmare Before Christmas' as the voice of Oogie Boogie. Career reflects a commitment to live performance and character portrayal, contributing significantly to musical theater.

Continue Reading

Fareed Zakaria

Journalist and author of best-selling books
Born
January 20th, 1964 61 years ago

Born in India and later becoming an American citizen, significant contributions to journalism and political commentary characterized an extensive career. Served as editor for Newsweek International and hosted the television program Fareed Zakaria GPS on CNN. Authored several influential books, including The Post-American World and In Defense of a Liberal Education. Engaged in discussions surrounding global politics, economics, and cultural issues.

Continue Reading