What Happened This Year 2003

People Who Died in 2003

Barry White

Singer-songwriter of soul music
Born
September 12th, 1944 80 years ago
Died
July 4th, 2003 21 years ago — 58 years old

Born in 1944, this American singer-songwriter gained prominence in the 1970s with a distinctive deep voice and romantic themes in his music. An early career in production led to the release of successful albums, blending soul and funk. The most significant work includes the album 'Can't Get Enough' featuring the hit 'You're the First, the Last, My Everything.' Over the years, collaborated with various artists and continued to release music that resonated deeply with audiences. Inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame for contributions to music, this artist's legacy endures in popular culture.

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Buddy Ebsen

Actor in The Beverly Hillbillies
Born
April 2nd, 1908 116 years ago
Died
July 6th, 2003 21 years ago — 95 years old

An American actor and dancer, began a career in show business with dancing and performing in vaudeville. Gained prominence in the 1960s with the role of Jed Clampett on the television series The Beverly Hillbillies. Initially cast as the Tin Man in The Wizard of Oz, developed a severe allergic reaction to the makeup and had to be replaced. Also known for roles in television series like Barnaby Jones. Continued to work in film and television until the late 1990s.

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Izhak Graziani

Bulgarian trumpet player and conductor
Born
1924 101 years ago
Died
July 7th, 2003 21 years ago — 79 years old

A prominent trumpet player and conductor, this individual contributed significantly to the Bulgarian music scene. The expertise in trumpet performance was showcased through numerous concerts, and significant participation in orchestral settings. Leading various musical ensembles allowed for the promotion of classical and traditional music within Bulgaria, influencing many upcoming musicians. Engagement in educational activities ensured the passing on of knowledge and techniques to aspiring trumpet players.

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Hartley Shawcross

Attorney General and politician
Born
February 4th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
July 10th, 2003 21 years ago — 101 years old

Baron Shawcross served as Attorney General for England and Wales from 1945 to 1951. He played a significant role in the Nuremberg Trials as the chief British prosecutor, arguing against war crimes committed by the Nazis. He was also a member of the Labour Party, serving as a Member of Parliament for several terms. Throughout his career, he contributed to the legal landscape in the UK and was involved in various legal reforms. His work at the Nuremberg Trials is particularly notable for its historical significance and impact on international law.

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Zahra Kazemi

Freelance photographer and journalist
Born
1948 77 years ago
Died
July 11th, 2003 21 years ago — 55 years old

Worked as a freelance photographer and journalist focusing on social and political issues in Iran. Arrested in 2003 while covering a protest in Tehran, imprisonment followed leading to severe mistreatment and death shortly afterward. Her case highlighted issues related to press freedom and human rights in Iran. Kazemi's photographic work documented various aspects of Iranian life, featuring both public protests and personal portraits.

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Benny Carter

Saxophonist and composer, Symphony in Riffs
Born
August 8th, 1907 117 years ago
Died
July 12th, 2003 21 years ago — 95 years old

An influential jazz musician, celebrated for virtuosity on the alto saxophone and contributions to the big band genre. Began a career in the 1920s, working with notable orchestras and artists, including Duke Ellington and Count Basie. Composed music across various styles, with 'Symphony in Riffs' being a significant work. Also excelled as a trumpet player and arranger, earning multiple accolades throughout a lengthy career.

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Compay Segundo

Cuban singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
November 18th, 1907 117 years ago
Died
July 13th, 2003 21 years ago — 95 years old

A prominent figure in Cuban music, a musician contributed significantly to the genre of son cubano. He gained international recognition as a member of the Buena Vista Social Club. His guitar playing and unique singing style showcased traditional Cuban music to a global audience. Through a prolific career spanning several decades, music drew from Afro-Cuban rhythms, creating sounds celebrating the cultural heritage of Cuba.

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Elisabeth Welch

American actress and singer
Born
1904 121 years ago
Died
July 15th, 2003 21 years ago — 99 years old

A prominent actress and singer, one of the early African American performers to achieve recognition in the United States and Europe. Starred in the Broadway musical 'Porgy and Bess' and had a notable career in theater, radio, and film. Welch performed with major orchestras and sung in various venues, showcasing her powerful voice and stage presence. She became known for her performances in the 1940s and 1950s, contributing to the cultural landscape of American music and theater.

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Roberto Bolaño

Chilean novelist and poet
Born
April 28th, 1953 71 years ago
Died
July 15th, 2003 21 years ago — 50 years old

A prominent figure in contemporary literature, this novelist, short-story writer, poet, and essayist produced a significant body of work that gained international recognition. Born in Chile, he spent much of his life in Mexico and later moved to Spain. His notable works include 'The Savage Detectives' and '2666', which both received critical acclaim and contributed to his reputation as an influential voice in literature. His writing often explored themes of exile, violence, and the complexities of the human experience. Bolaño received several awards posthumously, including the Neustadt International Prize for Literature.

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