What Happened This Year 2008
People Who Died in 2008
Madelyn Dunham
Born in 1922, she played a significant role in the upbringing of Barack Obama. Emigrating to Hawaii, she contributed to the familial household while working as a bank executive. Deeply involved in her grandson's education and upbringing, she provided essential support throughout his childhood and adolescence. She maintained a strong sense of family values and instilled those in future generations. Throughout her life, she was known for her unwavering resilience and dedication to her family.
Continue ReadingOlga Lepeshinskaya
Born in Ukraine, completed ballet training at the Vaganova Academy in St. Petersburg. Joined the Kirov Ballet where performed in major productions including 'Swan Lake' and 'The Nutcracker.' Contributed to the development of ballet in the Soviet Union through teaching and choreography. Worked at the Moscow State Academy of Choreography and influenced many notable dancers.
Continue ReadingPete Candoli
A prominent trumpet player in the 20th century, this musician was active in both jazz and popular music. He played with several well-known big bands, including those led by Stan Kenton and Woody Herman. He also worked as a session musician in Hollywood, contributing to numerous films and recordings. Throughout the career, he collaborated with a variety of artists and participated in significant performances across the United States, establishing a reputation within the jazz community.
Continue ReadingHal Riney
An American businessman founded the advertising agency Publicis & Hal Riney, which significantly influenced modern advertising. The agency produced memorable campaigns for various brands, including the iconic 'Morning in America' for Ronald Reagan's 1984 presidential campaign. The work showcased a blend of emotional storytelling and effective messaging that resonated with viewers. Riney's leadership and vision helped shape the agency into a prominent player in the advertising industry. His contributions extended beyond advertising into areas of branding and public relations.
Continue ReadingRaymond Lefèvre
An influential French composer and orchestra conductor, focusing primarily on light music and orchestral arrangements. In the late 20th century, created numerous popular compositions, often blending classical music with contemporary styles. Gained popularity through television and radio broadcasts in France, achieving widespread recognition in the 1960s and 1970s. Conducted orchestras for film scores, including work on soundtracks that entertained audiences across Europe. Lefèvre's orchestral style brought an elegant touch to popular music, showcasing intricate arrangements that appealed to a broad audience.
Continue ReadingSharan Rani Backliwal
An Indian sarod player and music scholar, contributed significantly to the field of Indian classical music. Pioneered the integration of sarod in various cultural contexts, showcasing its versatility. Established herself as a prominent figure through performances and research, enriching the understanding and appreciation of traditional music. Authored works that explored musical theory and history, promoting education in classical music.
Continue ReadingSuzzanna
Born in 1942, an Indonesian actress gained prominence in the film industry, particularly in the horror genre. The body of work includes notable films such as 'Sampai Jumpa di Neraka' and 'Batu Penjuru'. Through the 1970s and 1980s, engaged in various roles that contributed to the popularity of horror in Indonesian cinema. Apart from acting, also participated in producing films in later years, solidifying a legacy in the industry until passing in 2008.
Continue ReadingFred Baur
A chemist and inventor, developed the concept for a snack food that led to the creation of Pringles. Baur worked on formulating the unique potato chip as a more uniform and stackable product. His design allowed for improved packaging and distribution. The first canister of Pringles was released in 1968, forever changing the snack food industry. Baur's contributions included the use of specific blends of dehydrated potato flakes and the patented design of the Pringles can.
Continue ReadingNick Reynolds
An American singer and bongo player, associated with the folk music genre. Co-founded the popular musical group The Kingston Trio in 1957, which played a significant role in the folk music revival of the late 1950s and early 1960s. The group enjoyed numerous chart successes during that era. Played a pivotal part in popularizing calypso and folk music through hit songs such as 'Tom Dooley' and 'Where Have All the Flowers Gone.' Continued to perform with the group until its disbandment in the 1960s but remained involved in music throughout his life. Also contributed to various music projects and collaborations.
Continue Reading