Yip Harburg

American songwriter for 'Over the Rainbow'

Yip Harburg - American songwriter for 'Over the Rainbow'
Born

April 8th, 1896
129 years ago

Died

March 5th, 1981
44 years ago — 84 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

A prominent American songwriter and lyricist, contributed significantly to musical theater and film. Wrote lyrics for the enduring hit song 'Over the Rainbow' from the classic film 'The Wizard of Oz'. Collaborated with composers like Harold Arlen and contributed to various Broadway productions. Involved in social causes and themes through his works, reflecting social commentary and political issues.

Wrote lyrics for 'Over the Rainbow'

Contributed to 'The Wizard of Oz'

Worked on Broadway shows like 'Finian's Rainbow'

Other People Born on April 8th

Michael Jones

Rugby player and coach
Born
April 8th, 1965 60 years ago

A prominent rugby union player and coach from New Zealand, this individual was a flanker known for exceptional skills on the field. Played for the Auckland provincial rugby team and represented the All Blacks. After retiring from professional play, transitioned into coaching roles that included leading the Samoan national team. Inducted into the International Rugby Hall of Fame in recognition of contributions to the sport.

Continue Reading

Amit Trivedi

Singer-songwriter in Indian cinema
Born
April 8th, 1979 46 years ago

This individual is a prominent Indian singer-songwriter and music composer active in Hindi films. Established a reputation with the 2008 film 'Dev.D', which featured a modern soundtrack that garnered attention. The work earned the individual the Filmfare Award for Best Music Director, marking a significant achievement in the industry. Contributed to various films, creating unique soundscapes that blend traditional and contemporary styles.

Continue Reading

Alexi Laiho

Finnish guitarist and songwriter for Children of Bodom
Born
April 8th, 1979 46 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 41 years old

A prominent figure in the metal music scene, served as the lead guitarist and vocalist of the band Children of Bodom. Achieved recognition for a unique blend of melodic death metal and power metal. Released several critically acclaimed albums, including 'Follow the Reaper' and 'Hatebreeder', which contributed significantly to the band's popularity. Known for virtuosic guitar skills and a distinctive vocal style. After disbanding in 2019, continued to influence the genre until passing in 2020.

Continue Reading

Fred Ebb

American lyricist for Broadway musicals
Born
April 8th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
September 11th, 2004 20 years ago — 76 years old

A prominent lyricist, contributed to numerous successful Broadway musicals. Collaborated with composer John Kander. Major works include lyrics for 'Chicago', 'Cabaret', and 'Kiss of the Spider Woman'. Received multiple awards, including Tony Awards and an Academy Award for Best Original Song.

Continue Reading

Mark Blundell

Race car driver, Le Mans 24 Hours winner
Born
April 8th, 1966 59 years ago

A British race car driver excelled in various forms of motor racing, particularly in the 1990s. Competed in Formula One and achieved significant success in sports car racing. Secured victory in the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1992 with the manufacturer Jaguar, cementing a place in endurance racing history. Participated in multiple Formula One teams, including Tyrrell and McLaren, highlighting versatility and skill on the track. Transitioned to various racing series post-Formula One, including successful stints in the British Touring Car Championship.

Continue Reading

Barbara Young

Scottish academic and politician
Born
April 8th, 1948 77 years ago

Served as the Chief Executive of the Scottish Environment Protection Agency, overseeing environmental regulation and management. Contributed to the development of policy and strategy regarding environmental issues in Scotland. Held the position of a member of the House of Lords as Baroness Young of Old Scone. Engaged in various initiatives promoting sustainability and environmental awareness.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on March 5th

Patsy Cline

American country music singer
Born
September 8th, 1932 92 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1963 62 years ago — 30 years old

An influential figure in country music, this artist rose to fame in the early 1960s. With a rich and emotive voice, the artist gained popularity with hits like 'Crazy' and 'I Fall to Pieces.' The artist's career was marked by a unique ability to blend traditional country with pop influences, leading to widespread acclaim and commercial success. Though the career was tragically cut short by an untimely death in a plane crash, the artist's music continues to resonate with audiences today.

Continue Reading

Vlada Divljan

Serbian singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
1958 67 years ago
Died
March 5th, 2015 10 years ago — 57 years old

A prominent figure in the Serbian music scene, contributed significantly as a singer-songwriter and guitarist. Initiated a career in the late 1970s and became known as a founding member of the influential rock band Riblja Čorba. Successfully merged rock music with poetic lyrics, producing several albums that resonated with the public during the 1980s and 1990s. Engaged in various musical projects throughout a prolific career, gaining recognition for both solo work and collaborations with other artists. His music often explored themes of love, society, and personal introspection, and he maintained an active public presence until his passing in 2015.

Continue Reading

Vivian Stanshall

English singer-songwriter and musician
Born
March 21st, 1943 82 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1995 30 years ago — 51 years old

A British singer-songwriter and musician, this individual was a founding member of the band Bonzo Dog Doo-Dah Band, known for their eclectic style and satirical lyrics. The band gained popularity in the 1960s, particularly with the song 'I'm the Urban Spaceman,' which reached the UK charts. Following the band's disbandment, this artist pursued a solo career and released several albums, showcasing a unique blend of humor and musicality. Contributions to the BBC included a series of radio broadcasts that highlighted a whimsical and unconventional approach to music and storytelling. This individual remained influential in underground music scenes until the end of life in 1995.

Continue Reading

Tito Gobbi

Operatic Baritone and singer
Born
October 24th, 1913 111 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1984 41 years ago — 70 years old

An Italian baritone achieved prominence in the operatic world during the mid-20th century. Notable for performing in major roles in operas by composers such as Verdi, Puccini, and Mozart. Gained acclaim for performances in famous operas such as 'Il barbiere di Siviglia,' 'Madama Butterfly,' and 'Don Giovanni.' Developed a reputation for both vocal ability and dramatic presence on the operatic stage. Besides opera, engaged in concert performances and recordings in collaboration with renowned orchestras across Europe.

Continue Reading

David Scott

Scottish historical painter
Born
June 6th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1849 176 years ago — -84 years old

Contributed to the development of historical painting in Britain. Provided illustrations for important literary works and created significant historical canvases. Active during the 19th century, Scott served as a member of the Royal Scottish Academy and had a profound impact on the Scottish artistic scene.

Continue Reading

John Belushi

American actor and comedian, SNL star
Born
January 24th, 1949 76 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1982 43 years ago — 33 years old

A prominent actor and comedian, recognized for groundbreaking work on the sketch comedy show 'Saturday Night Live'. Gained acclaim as a member of the original cast, contributing to the show's rise in popularity during the 1970s. Starred in the cult classic film 'Animal House', which became a defining comedy of its era and is credited with popularizing the college comedy genre. Collaborated with various comedians and writers throughout a brief yet impactful career in comedy and film, showcasing unique talents in both improvisation and performance.

Continue Reading