What Happened This Year 2006

People Who Died in 2006

King Floyd

American singer-songwriter and musician
Born
February 13th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 61 years old

A prominent figure in the funk and soul music genres, this artist gained recognition with the hit single 'Groove Me,' released in 1970. The song reached No. 1 on the R&B chart and climbed to No. 28 on the Billboard Hot 100. His smooth vocals and distinct style attracted a dedicated following during the peak of his career. The artist released several albums throughout the 1970s, notable for blending elements of funk, soul, and R&B. Although the mainstream success waned over the subsequent decades, live performances and recordings continued to showcase musical talent and creativity, culminating in a lasting legacy within the genre.

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Jean-Jacques Servan-Schreiber

French journalist and politician
Born
February 13th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 82 years old

Servan-Schreiber worked as a journalist and politician in France. He founded the newspaper L'Express in 1953, which became influential in French journalism. He served as a member of the National Assembly from 1967 to 1973. As a politician, he advocated for European integration and modernization of France's economy. His writings significantly influenced public opinion and political discourse in post-war France, particularly during periods of societal change.

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Arif Mardin

Record Producer and Arranger
Born
March 15th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 74 years old

An influential record producer and arranger, contributed significantly to the music industry, primarily in the genres of pop and jazz. Worked with various artists and bands, shaping the sound of numerous hit records. Immigrated to the United States from Turkey, where early experiences influenced musical style. Mardin's career included notable collaborations with renowned artists and an extensive discography that showcases inventive production techniques.

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Sally Gray

English actress and singer in film and stage
Born
February 14th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 91 years old

Born in 1915, this English actress and singer gained prominence in the mid-20th century. Appearing in several films and stage productions, significant roles included performances in 'The Man from Morocco' and 'The Young Lovers'. In addition to acting, vocal talents were showcased in various music performances during her career. Contributions to the entertainment industry spanned several decades.

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Kintarō Ōki

Wrestler and Olympic gold medalist
Born
February 24th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 77 years old

Achieved significant success in freestyle wrestling. Competed in the 1960 Rome Olympics, securing a gold medal in the men's lightweight division. Participated in multiple international competitions, demonstrating consistent performance and technical skills. Later transitioned to coaching, influencing a new generation of wrestlers in South Korea.

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Machiko Soga

Japanese actress in Super Sentai series
Born
March 18th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 68 years old

An actress recognized for contributions to the Japanese television scene, notable for portraying the villainess Bandora in the series Kyōryū Sentai Zyuranger. Soga performed in the role from 1992 to 1993, which became iconic and contributed to the show's enduring popularity both in Japan and internationally. Additionally, she appeared in various films and television dramas throughout her career, showcasing her range as a performer.

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István Gyulai

Hungarian sprinter and sportscaster
Born
March 21st, 1943 82 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 63 years old

A Hungarian sprinter specialized in the 100 meters and 200 meters events. Competed at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, representing Hungary. Transitioned into sports broadcasting after retiring from athletics, providing insights and commentary on various competitions. Contributed to the development of athletics in Hungary through media presence.

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Sarah Caldwell

Opera director and impresario
Born
March 6th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 82 years old

An influential opera director and impresario, this individual founded the Boston Opera Company. Significant contributions to the field included directing productions at the Metropolitan Opera and working on numerous contemporary operas. A prominent figure in American opera, celebrated for a unique vision that combined traditional works with innovative interpretations, shaping the landscape of opera in the United States.

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