What Happened This Year 2007

People Who Died in 2007

Raymond Barre

Economist and Prime Minister of France
Born
April 12th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
2007 19 years ago — 83 years old

An economist and politician who served as Prime Minister of France from 1976 to 1977. Played a significant role in shaping economic policies during the 1970s. Held various ministerial positions, including Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs. Contributed to the development of the European integration process. Served as a Member of the European Parliament after his tenure as Prime Minister.

Continue Reading

Billy Thorpe

Singer-songwriter and producer
Born
March 29th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
2007 19 years ago — 61 years old

Originated from England and later relocated to Australia, this singer-songwriter and guitarist gained popularity in the Australian music scene. He began his career in the 1960s with the band Billy Thorpe and the Aztecs, which became prominent with the hit single 'Most People I Know (Think That I'm Crazy)'. Through the years, the artist explored various musical styles, including rock and progressive rock, and released numerous albums. The album 'Children of the Sun' became one of the highlights of his career. Thorpe also earned recognition as a music producer and contributed to the Australian music industry until his passing in 2007.

Continue Reading

Luther Ingram

R&B singer-songwriter with hit 'If Loving You Is Wrong'
Born
November 30th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
2007 19 years ago — 70 years old

An American R&B and soul singer-songwriter emerged in the 1960s. Gained recognition with the release of the single 'If Loving You Is Wrong (I Don't Want to Be Right)' in 1972, which topped the charts and became a classic in the genre. Recorded several albums throughout the 1970s, contributing significantly to the music scene. Ingram's style was characterized by emotional delivery and powerful vocals, influencing subsequent generations of soul artists.

Continue Reading

Eddie Robinson

American football coach and player
Born
February 13th, 1919 107 years ago
Died
2007 19 years ago — 88 years old

A prominent figure in American football, contributed significantly as a coach and player. Served as the head coach at Grambling State University from 1941 to 1997, building a powerful football program. Achieved a remarkable 408 wins, earning the title of the winningest coach in NCAA Division I history. Pioneered opportunities for African American athletes in college football through a legacy of mentorship and success. Instrumental in developing many players who went on to have successful careers in professional football, particularly in the NFL.

Continue Reading

Povel Ramel

Swedish singer-songwriter and pianist
Born
June 1st, 1922 103 years ago
Died
2007 19 years ago — 85 years old

A prominent figure in Swedish entertainment, this artist contributed significantly to music and comedy. Engaging audiences with witty lyrics and inventive melodies, attention was drawn to performances on stage and radio. The artist created numerous songs that became staples in Swedish culture, blending humor and musicality seamlessly. Povel Ramel also played a key role in Swedish cabaret, influencing generations of entertainers. His work spanned several decades, showcasing versatility as a songwriter, performer, and pianist.

Continue Reading

Walter Hendl

American pianist and conductor
Born
January 12th, 1917 109 years ago
Died
2007 19 years ago — 90 years old

A prominent figure in American classical music, contributed extensively as a pianist and conductor. Served as music director for the Brooklyn Philharmonic and led various orchestras across the United States. Composed several works for orchestra and chamber ensembles. Played a significant role in the development of American music through performances and recordings. Hendl's artistry was evident in both solo recitals and orchestral settings, showcasing the depth of classical repertoire.

Continue Reading

Butch van Breda Kolff

Basketball player and coach
Born
October 28th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
2007 19 years ago — 85 years old

Played college basketball at Lafayette College and later earned recognition as a head coach in NCAA basketball. Coached teams at the University of New York at Albany and at the University of New Orleans, leading a successful career in coaching. Served as a coach for several professional teams including the Detroit Pistons and the New Jersey Nets. Contributed to the game by influencing many young players and coaches during decades of involvement in basketball.

Continue Reading

Evelyn Knight

American singer with hit 'A Little Bird Told Me'
Born
December 31st, 1917 108 years ago
Died
2007 19 years ago — 90 years old

Started a career in music in the late 1930s, gaining prominence through radio and recording. Achieved considerable success with the hit single 'A Little Bird Told Me' in 1948, which topped the charts and became a defining song of the era. Her style blended traditional pop and easy listening, appealing to a wide audience. Continued to perform and record throughout the subsequent decades, contributing to a rich legacy in the American music scene.

Continue Reading

Tommy Byrne

Baseball player and coach
Born
December 31st, 1919 106 years ago
Died
2007 19 years ago — 88 years old

A former professional baseball player and coach, achieved significant success as a pitcher in Major League Baseball. Played for the New York Yankees and the Chicago White Sox. Transitioned to coaching after retiring from playing, contributing to the development of future players in the sport. Additionally involved in politics, serving in the New York State Assembly. His multifaceted career included athletic achievement and public service.

Continue Reading