What Happened This Year 1961

Born in 1961

Michelle Wright

Canadian country music singer-songwriter
Born
July 1st, 1961 63 years ago

Born in 1961, a Canadian singer-songwriter and guitarist. Achieved prominence in the country music scene during the 1990s. Released several successful albums, including 'Now and Then' which produced multiple chart-topping hits. Recognized for contributions to the Canadian music industry, earning numerous awards throughout a career spanning several decades.

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Clark Kellogg

Basketball player and sportscaster
Born
July 2nd, 1961 63 years ago

Played college basketball at The Ohio State University, earning All-American honors. Entered the NBA draft in 1982 and played for the Indiana Pacers from 1982 to 1986. After an injury-shortened playing career, transitioned into sports broadcasting. Served as a commentator for CBS Sports, particularly for NCAA basketball. Provided analysis and color commentary during March Madness broadcasts.

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Richard Garriott

Video game designer, Ultima series creator
Born
July 4th, 1961 63 years ago

An English-American video game designer, contributions include the development of the Ultima series, which significantly influenced the role-playing game genre. Garriott's work extended beyond game design; he pursued a successful career as an entrepreneur and involved himself in the gaming community through various innovations. Garriott held a strong interest in technology, used it to explore the virtual worlds he created, and was one of the first developers to leverage online gaming. His dedication to the medium culminated in exploration of space as part of a commercial flight in 2008.

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Karl Seglem

Norwegian saxophonist and producer
Born
July 8th, 1961 63 years ago

Born in 1961 in Norway, this musician specializes in jazz and folk music, utilizing the saxophone as a primary instrument. Influenced by traditional Norwegian sounds, incorporated folk elements into his jazz performances. Released numerous albums and collaborated with various artists, showcasing versatility across genres. Notable works include 'Haugbro' and 'Nordic Sound'. Also produced music for other musicians, contributing to the jazz and folk scenes in Norway.

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Toby Keith

Country singer and songwriter
Born
July 8th, 1961 63 years ago
Died
February 5th, 2024 1 years ago — 62 years old

A prominent country singer and songwriter, achieved commercial success in the 1990s and 2000s. Gained popularity with a unique blend of traditional country sound and honky-tonk influences. Released numerous albums and singles, with several reaching the top of the charts. Notable works include the hit songs 'Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue (The Angry American)' and 'Should've Been a Cowboy'. Established a reputation for patriotic themes in music and has also engaged in philanthropy through various charitable efforts.

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Andrew Fletcher

English keyboard player in Depeche Mode
Born
July 8th, 1961 63 years ago
Died
2022 3 years ago — 61 years old

A keyboard player served as a founding member of the electronic music band Depeche Mode. The band gained significant popularity in the 1980s and 1990s, known for pioneering synth-pop and electronic music. Fletcher contributed to the band's distinct sound through his keyboard skills and musical arrangements. Depeche Mode's albums, including 'Violator' and 'Songs of Faith and Devotion', achieved critical and commercial success, solidifying their place in music history.

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Marc Riley

Guitarist and radio DJ, The Fall
Born
July 10th, 1961 63 years ago

In the early 1980s, began working with the post-punk band The Fall, contributing as a guitarist. Transitioned to a radio career, hosting various programs on BBC Radio. Established a distinctive style that combined music and humor, engaging listeners across the UK. Played a significant role in promoting new music and artists through radio shows, becoming a recognizable figure in British broadcasting.

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Jacky Cheung

Hong Kong singer and film actor
Born
July 10th, 1961 63 years ago

This individual gained prominence in the music and film industries in Hong Kong. Achieved wide acclaim in the Cantopop genre and has released numerous best-selling albums. Starred in several successful films, including 'As Tears Go By' and 'The Musical'. His contributions to music earned multiple awards, including the Golden Melody Awards, and he is often referred to as one of the 'Four Heavenly Kings' of Cantopop. Remains a significant figure in the entertainment scene.

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Antony Jenkins

Banker and former CEO of Barclays
Born
July 11th, 1961 63 years ago

An English banker and businessman served as the Group Chief Executive of Barclays from 2012 to 2015. Oversaw significant restructuring within the bank during a challenging period, aiming to restore its reputation following the financial crisis. Led efforts to refocus Barclays on its core banking activities and emphasized the importance of trust and transparency in the financial sector. Prior to his role as CEO, worked in various leadership positions within the bank, gaining extensive experience in the banking industry over several decades.

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