What Happened This Year 1998

People Who Died in 1998

Junior Wells

American blues singer and harmonica player
Born
December 9th, 1934 90 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1998 27 years ago — 63 years old

A prominent figure in the Chicago blues scene, this artist gained recognition for vibrant performances and a unique vocal style. Wells started recording in the late 1950s and collaborated with various musicians throughout his career. Notable works include the influential album 'Hoodoo Man Blues,' which is regarded as a classic in the blues genre. His ability to blend vocal and harmonica performances set him apart and influenced many blues artists.

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Gulzarilal Nanda

Indian economist and Prime Minister
Born
July 4th, 1898 126 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1998 27 years ago — 99 years old

An Indian economist and politician served as acting Prime Minister of India during two tenures in 1964. Led initiatives focusing on India’s economic development, emphasizing social justice and labor rights. Played a significant role in formulating the country’s first Five-Year Plan. Contributed to national planning and policy-making during key periods of India’s post-independence history.

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Carl Perkins

American singer-songwriter, 'Blue Suede Shoes'
Born
April 9th, 1932 92 years ago
Died
January 19th, 1998 27 years ago — 65 years old

A prominent figure in the rockabilly genre, this singer-songwriter and guitarist achieved fame in the 1950s and 1960s. Early musical influences included country and blues, leading to a distinctive sound that blended these styles. The song 'Blue Suede Shoes' became a significant hit, establishing a strong foothold in American popular music. Perkins' work greatly influenced future generations of musicians, contributing to the emergence of rock and roll. His career included tours and performances alongside other seminal artists, cementing his status in music history. He continued to write and perform throughout his life, leaving a lasting legacy upon his passing in 1998.

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Jack Lord

Television actor and producer
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1998 27 years ago — 78 years old

An American actor, director, and producer, gained prominence for the lead role of Steve McGarrett in the television series Hawaii Five-O, which aired from 1968 to 1980. The character became a cultural icon, embodying the essence of law enforcement in Hawaii. Also worked as a producer and was involved in the creative aspects of the show. Lord's career included appearances in various films and series throughout the 1950s and 1960s, contributing to his reputation as a talented and versatile actor. His contributions to the entertainment industry left a lasting legacy.

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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.

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Haroun Tazieff

Geologist and documentary filmmaker
Born
1914 111 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1998 27 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent geologist and cinematographer, contributed significantly to volcanology and geology. Filmed numerous volcanic eruptions, providing valuable insights into volcanic activities. Worked closely with scientists to document geological phenomena and increase public understanding of natural disasters. Authored several books on geology and hazards, combining scientific rigor with engaging storytelling. Emphasized the importance of public education in the field of geology through documentaries and lectures.

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Tim Kelly

American guitarist of Quiet Riot fame
Born
1963 62 years ago
Died
February 5th, 1998 27 years ago — 35 years old

A prominent American guitarist, he gained recognition as a member of the heavy metal band Quiet Riot. The band achieved significant commercial success in the 1980s with the album 'Metal Health', which became the first heavy metal album to reach number one on the Billboard 200 chart. Kelly's guitar work contributed to the band's signature sound, characterized by an energetic and melodic style that resonated with fans of the genre. Despite the band's success, the group faced challenges, including lineup changes and internal conflicts. Kelly continued to perform and record music until his untimely death in 1998.

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Falco

Austrian singer-songwriter and musician
Born
February 19th, 1957 68 years ago
Died
February 6th, 1998 27 years ago — 40 years old

This artist achieved international fame in the 1980s with a unique blend of pop, rock, and rap. The debut album, 'Einzelhaft' released in 1982, featured the hit single 'Rock Me Amadeus,' which topped charts in multiple countries. The music style included elements of new wave, and the use of German lyrics set this artist apart from many contemporaries. A skilled lyricist and performer, this individual captivated audiences with energetic performances and a distinctive persona. The second album, 'Falco 3,' continued the success with hits such as 'Vienna Calling.' The artist's career was marked by both commercial success and critical acclaim, leading to a lasting legacy in the music industry.

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Enoch Powell

British politician and health secretary
Born
June 16th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
February 8th, 1998 27 years ago — 85 years old

A soldier and politician in the UK, served as a Member of Parliament for over two decades. Held the position of Secretary of State for Health from 1960 to 1963, influencing the direction of health policy during that time. Gained prominence for a controversial speech in 1968 that addressed immigration and race relations in Britain. Involved in various debates regarding social policy and was a member of the Conservative Party for much of his career.

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