What Happened This Year 1938

Born in 1938

Wolfman Jack

Radio personality and DJ
Born
January 21st, 1938 87 years ago
Died
July 1st, 1995 29 years ago — 57 years old

A prominent radio personality and DJ, notable for hosting 'The Midnight Special' and various radio shows. Achieved fame as a voice on the airwaves, combining music with a unique, engaging style. His influence spanned multiple decades, reaching a broad audience. Became a cultural icon during the 1960s and 1970s, contributing to the popularity of rock and roll music through extensive interaction with listeners.

Continue Reading

Peter Beard

Photographer and author of 'End of the Game'
Born
January 22nd, 1938 87 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 82 years old

An Australian photographer and author, recognized for capturing the relationship between humankind and nature. Beard's photographic work often highlighted the beauty and fragility of African wildlife, particularly in Kenya. He produced several books that combined photography with his own writings, most notably 'End of the Game,' which addressed the challenges facing the African landscape and wildlife. Beard's unique style blended images with handwritten notes and drawings, giving a personal touch to his visual storytelling. His extensive body of work also includes collaborations with fashion magazines and significant contributions to conservation efforts.

Continue Reading

Altair Gomes de Figueiredo

Brazilian footballer and World Cup champion
Born
January 22nd, 1938 87 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 81 years old

A Brazilian footballer, celebrated for contributions to the sport as a defender. Played for the São Paulo club and represented Brazil in international competitions. Instrumental in Brazil's victory at the 1962 FIFA World Cup in Chile, showcasing exceptional defensive skills and teamwork. Career included stints in other clubs, further highlighting consistent performance throughout the footballing years.

Continue Reading

Joe Esposito

Author of 'The Real Elvis'
Born
January 22nd, 1938 87 years ago
Died
November 23rd, 2016 8 years ago — 78 years old

An American author, this individual gained recognition primarily for writing about the life of Elvis Presley. Esposito served as a close friend and confidant to Presley, which provided unique insights into the singer's life and career. The work 'The Real Elvis' contains personal anecdotes and experiences that capture the essence of Presley beyond the public persona. Additionally, this author contributed to various projects including documentaries and interviews focused on Elvis.

Continue Reading

Georg Baselitz

German painter and sculptor; dominant motifs
Born
January 23rd, 1938 87 years ago

A significant figure in contemporary art, contributions include the development of a style characterized by upside-down representations. This approach was intended to challenge conventional perspectives and engage viewers in new ways. Engaged with varied themes over the decades, including German identity and the human condition. Baselitz's work has included both painting and sculpture, pushing the boundaries of artistic expression in post-war Germany. The artist's prominence grew through exhibitions and a unique approach that blended figuration and abstraction.

Continue Reading

Giant Baba

Professional wrestler and promoter
Born
January 23rd, 1938 87 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1999 26 years ago — 61 years old

A prominent figure in professional wrestling, made significant contributions as a wrestler and trainer. Co-founded All Japan Pro Wrestling in 1972, which became a paramount promotion in the industry. Held the World Heavyweight Championship multiple times and was recognized for a unique style that blended traditional Japanese wrestling with elements of American wrestling. Transitioned from an active competitor to a promoter role, guiding the careers of many future wrestling stars. His legacy continues through the promotion and his influence on the global wrestling landscape.

Continue Reading

Julius Hemphill

Saxophonist and eclectic composer
Born
January 24th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
1995 30 years ago — 57 years old

A prominent American saxophonist and composer, contributed significantly to the jazz genre. His work included innovative compositions and arrangements that incorporated elements of classical, blues, and African music. Hemphill gained recognition in the 1970s with the formation of the World Saxophone Quartet, which showcased avant-garde saxophone music. Collaborated with many artists in the jazz scene, leaving a lasting legacy through recordings that emphasized improvisation and collective playing. Established a repertoire that includes both original compositions and reimagined interpretations of existing pieces.

Continue Reading

Etta James

Soul and blues singer with 'At Last'
Born
January 25th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
January 20th, 2012 13 years ago — 73 years old

Achieved prominence as a soul and blues singer-songwriter with a career spanning several decades. Rose to fame in the 1950s and 1960s with a distinctive voice and emotional depth. Released several acclaimed albums and singles, with 'At Last' becoming a timeless classic. Contributed to the musical landscape with influences across genres, including gospel, R&B, and jazz. Received numerous awards during her career, including multiple Grammy Awards and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction.

Continue Reading

Shotaro Ishinomori

Japanese manga artist and author
Born
January 25th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
January 28th, 1998 27 years ago — 60 years old

A prominent manga artist and author, contributed significantly to the development of manga in Japan. Created series such as 'Cyborg 009' and 'Kamen Rider', which became cultural phenomena. Began a career in the 1950s, publishing numerous works that captured the imagination of audiences. His style and storytelling techniques influenced a generation of manga artists and helped establish manga as an important form of entertainment.

Continue Reading