What Happened This Year 1982

People Who Died in 1982

Jack Owens

American singer-songwriter and pianist
Born
October 17th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 70 years old

Born in 1912, this American musician gained recognition as a singer-songwriter and pianist, contributing significantly to the blues genre. Active during the mid-20th century, the music career included recording numerous songs that showcased a unique blend of traditional and modern influences within blues music. Emphasizing emotional storytelling through lyrics and melodies, this artist's music often reflected personal experiences and cultural narratives. They performed extensively, captivating audiences with powerful vocal performances and exceptional piano skills. Later years included collaborations with various musicians and participation in music festivals, solidifying their influence in the American music scene.

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Beverly Bayne

American actress in silent films
Born
November 11th, 1894 130 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 88 years old

Active during the early 20th century, this actress gained prominence in the silent film era. Starred alongside notable actors like John Barrymore and appeared in significant works such as 'The Innocence of Lizette' and 'The Girl of the Golden West'. Transitioned into feature films after the advent of sound but found greater success in stage performances later in her career. Continued to contribute to the film industry and the theater until retirement.

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Elio Petri

Italian film director and screenwriter
Born
January 29th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 53 years old

An influential director and screenwriter, contributed significantly to Italian cinema. Directed several acclaimed films that explored social and political themes. Notable works include 'Investigating the Criminal' and 'The 10th Victim,' both of which offered critical commentary on society. Developed a unique narrative style that combined elements of drama and satire. Collaborated with notable actors to create powerful performances that resonated with audiences.

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Roy Fox

British dance bandleader and musician
Born
October 25th, 1901 123 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent dance bandleader in Britain during the 1930s, Fox led a successful band that performed widely, including at the famous Café de Paris in London. The band fused jazz elements with popular music of the time. He gained popularity for his radio broadcasts, which showcased both his musical talent and the band’s energetic performances. Together with his band, he recorded numerous songs that resonated with audiences of the era. Fox played a significant role in shaping the dance music scene in Britain, especially during the pre-war period. His contributions were influential in the rise of swing music in the country.

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Sonny Stitt

Saxophonist and composer of bebop jazz
Born
February 2nd, 1924 101 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 58 years old

An influential figure in the bebop jazz scene, this saxophonist contributed significantly to the genre through both performance and composition. Primarily played the alto and tenor saxophones, showcasing unique improvisational skills. Collaborated with numerous artists and bands, including work with jazz greats such as Dizzy Gillespie and Oscar Peterson. Recorded extensively, producing a rich catalog of music that reflects the evolution of jazz during the mid-20th century. Continued to perform into the 1980s, leaving a lasting legacy in jazz music.

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Leonid Kogan

Violinist and educator renowned for performances
Born
November 14th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 58 years old

A distinguished violinist and educator, this individual significantly contributed to the classical music scene. Born in what is now Ukraine, a prominent career in performing began early, leading to a reputation as one of the leading violinists of the 20th century. This musician toured extensively across Europe and beyond, gaining acclaim for both solo and orchestral performances. Teaching also played a significant role, with many students benefitting from mentorship. A strong advocate for music, contributions to educational institutions were notable.

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Ants Oras

Estonian-American author and academic
Born
December 8th, 1900 124 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 82 years old

Born in Estonia, an academic and author contributed significantly to the fields of literature and translation. Emigrated to the United States, where work involved teaching at several institutions. Gained recognition for translating prominent works from Estonian to English, fostering cross-cultural understanding. Published critical studies on various literary figures, expanding knowledge of Baltic literature.

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Wifredo Lam

Cuban-French painter and visual artist
Born
December 8th, 1902 122 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 80 years old

Born in Cuba to a Chinese father and a Spanish mother, a prominent painter blended surrealism and Afro-Cuban symbolism to create a unique artistic style. Studied in Madrid and later moved to Paris, where he became associated with influential artists like Pablo Picasso and André Breton. His work reflects themes of identity, culture, and history, particularly focusing on the African diaspora in the Caribbean. The painting 'The Jungle' is one of his most recognized works, showcasing bold colors and intricate forms that depict Haitian themes. Throughout his career, participated in various exhibitions and contributed to the Latin American avant-garde movement, establishing a significant legacy in modern art.

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Joe Tex

Soul Singer-Songwriter for 'Hold What You Got'
Born
August 8th, 1933 91 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 49 years old

An American soul singer-songwriter emerged in the 1960s with a distinctive style blending rhythm and blues with comedic storytelling. Achieved initial fame with the hit 'Hold What You Got' and followed with other successful tracks like 'I Gotcha' and 'The Love You Save'. His music often featured engaging lyrics and catchy rhythms, contributing to the soul genre flourishing during that period. Tex also integrated spoken word elements into performances, showcasing a unique approach that set him apart from contemporaries. Later in his career, he moved to gospel music, further displaying his versatility and depth as an artist.

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