What Happened This Year 1945

Born in 1945

Al Stewart

Singer-songwriter and guitarist, 'Year of the Cat'
Born
September 5th, 1945 79 years ago

A Scottish singer-songwriter and guitarist gained prominence in the 1970s music scene. Early career included folk-style performances and releases, but commercial success came with the album 'Year of the Cat' in 1976, which featured the hit title track. Follow-up albums included successful works such as 'Time Passages' in 1978. His music often incorporates historical and literary themes, establishing a distinctive style. Collaborations with renowned musicians and participation in various music festivals expanded influence.

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Jacques Lemaire

Ice hockey player and coach
Born
September 7th, 1945 79 years ago

A Canadian ice hockey player and coach, began playing professionally in the National Hockey League (NHL) with the Montreal Canadiens in 1967. During his playing career, achieved notable success, including winning the Stanley Cup in 1968, 1969, 1971, and 1973. Transformed into a head coach, led the New Jersey Devils to a Stanley Cup Championship in 1995, significantly contributing to the team's defensive strategies and overall success. Recognized for innovative coaching techniques and development of players.

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Rogie Vachon

Ice hockey player and coach with LA Kings
Born
September 8th, 1945 79 years ago

Born in 1945, this individual played as a goaltender in the National Hockey League (NHL). Career spanned from the 1960s to the late 1970s, featuring tenures with the Montreal Canadiens, Detroit Red Wings, and Los Angeles Kings. Achieved notable success with the Canadiens, contributing to their winning Stanley Cup championships. Transitioned to coaching roles after retirement, holding positions in various NHL teams and expanding knowledge in goaltending strategy. Inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2016, recognizing significant contributions to the sport.

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Vinko Puljić

Croatian cardinal and church leader
Born
September 8th, 1945 79 years ago

Ordained as a priest in 1971, served various roles within the Catholic Church, including bishop of Mostar-Duvno and archbishop of Vrhbosna. Participated in numerous synods and provided guidance on issues relevant to the church and society. Elected as a cardinal in 2001, contributed to the leadership of the church in Croatia and the broader region. Involved in interfaith dialogue efforts and religious education initiatives throughout a lengthy ecclesiastical career.

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Ron "Pigpen" McKernan

American keyboard player and songwriter
Born
September 8th, 1945 79 years ago
Died
March 8th, 1973 52 years ago — 27 years old

A founding member of the Grateful Dead, contributed as a keyboardist and vocalist. Played a significant role in shaping the band's unique sound, integrating blues and rock elements. McKernan's songwriting contributed to the band's early success, with several songs featuring his distinct style. His performance presence was notable in live concerts, particularly during the band's formative years.

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Kelly Groucutt

Singer and bass player for Electric Light Orchestra
Born
September 8th, 1945 79 years ago
Died
February 19th, 2009 16 years ago — 63 years old

A musician and singer, contributed as the bass player and vocalist for the Electric Light Orchestra from 1974 to 1983. This band merged rock with orchestral elements and gained significant popularity during the 1970s and early 1980s. Participated in the recording of several successful albums, notably 'A New World Record' and 'Out of the Blue'. After leaving the band, continued to perform and collaborate with various artists. His work remains celebrated among fans of progressive rock and pop music.

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Lem Barney

Professional football player and Hall of Famer
Born
September 8th, 1945 79 years ago

An American football player, played as a cornerback in the National Football League. Spent the majority of his career with the Detroit Lions from 1967 to 1977. Achieved high regard for defensive skills and game performance. Selected to the Pro Bowl multiple times and earned All-Pro honors. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1992 for outstanding contributions to the sport.

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Ton van Heugten

Motocross racer with championship titles
Born
September 9th, 1945 79 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 63 years old

Born in 1945, a motocross racer achieved prominence in the sport during the 1970s. Competed in various national and international competitions, showcasing exceptional skill and determination. Made significant contributions to motocross in the Netherlands, participating in events that highlighted the athleticism and competitiveness of the sport.

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Doug Ingle

Singer-songwriter and keyboard player for Iron Butterfly
Born
September 9th, 1945 79 years ago
Died
May 24th, 2024 0 years ago — 78 years old

A prominent figure in the rock music scene, played keyboards and provided vocals for the band Iron Butterfly. The band gained significant recognition for the hit song 'In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida,' which became an iconic anthem of the late 1960s. Contributed to the band's experimental style, blending hard rock with psychedelia. Instrumental in the 1968 release of the album 'In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida,' which solidified their place in rock history and is considered one of the first gold albums in the genre.

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