What Happened This Year 2020

People Who Died in 2020

Floyd Cardoz

Chef and winner of Top Chef Masters
Born
1960 65 years ago
Died
March 25th, 2020 4 years ago — 60 years old

An Indian-born American chef, played a significant role in blending Indian cuisine with contemporary techniques. Established several acclaimed restaurants, including Tabla in New York City, which focused on Indian-inspired fine dining. Won the third season of Top Chef Masters, showcasing culinary expertise and innovation. Contributed to the culinary community through various food and wine festivals, and authored a cookbook titled 'Floyd Cardoz - Flavorwalla' highlighting his culinary philosophy and recipes.

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Krzysztof Penderecki

Composer known for 'The Passion According to St. Luke'
Born
November 23rd, 1933 91 years ago
Died
March 29th, 2020 4 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent Polish composer and conductor, created significant works that span various styles, including avant-garde, neo-Romanticism, and contemporary classical music. 'Threnody to the Victims of Hiroshima', composed in 1960, showcased innovative string techniques and gained international acclaim. 'The Passion According to St. Luke', composed in 1965, became one of the central works in liturgical music. Served as a professor at various institutions and contributed to music education throughout his career.

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Alan Merrill

Musician and songwriter, co-wrote 'I Love Rock 'n' Roll'
Born
1951 74 years ago
Died
March 29th, 2020 4 years ago — 69 years old

An American musician and songwriter, played guitar and provided vocals for the band The Restless Hearts. Co-wrote the iconic song 'I Love Rock 'n' Roll', which gained immense popularity after being covered by Joan Jett & the Blackhearts. Contributed to the music industry as a prominent figure in the glam rock movement during the 1970s. Throughout his career, collaborated with various artists and bands, leaving a lasting mark on rock music.

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Joe Diffie

Country music singer and Grammy Award winner
Born
1958 67 years ago
Died
March 29th, 2020 4 years ago — 62 years old

A country music singer achieved significant success in the 1990s. Gained popularity with a distinctive voice and storytelling ability in lyrics. Released several chart-topping hits and albums during a prolific career. Won a Grammy Award for Best Country Collaboration with Vocals for the song 'Same Old Train.' Part of the Grand Ole Opry and contributed to the genre through songwriting as well. Continued to perform and release music until the later years.

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Manolis Glezos

Greek politician and folk hero
Born
September 9th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
March 30th, 2020 4 years ago — 97 years old

A Greek left-wing politician and journalist, Glezos gained prominence during World War II when he, alongside another resistance fighter, tore down the Nazi flag from the Acropolis in 1941. This act of defiance became symbolic of Greek resistance against occupation. Over the years, he served in various political roles, including as a member of the Hellenic Parliament. Glezos authored several works and was active in political movements advocating for human rights and democracy. His lifelong dedication to social justice earned him respect and recognition in Greece and beyond.

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Bill Withers

Singer-songwriter with iconic hits
Born
July 4th, 1938 86 years ago
Died
March 30th, 2020 4 years ago — 81 years old

An American singer-songwriter gained prominence in the 1970s with a distinctive voice and heartfelt lyrics. Best known for hits like 'Ain't No Sunshine,' 'Lean on Me,' and 'Lovely Day,' Withers' music explored themes of love and resilience. His work earned multiple Grammy Awards, showcasing a talent for blending soul, R&B, and folk influences. Withers released several albums, including 'Just As I Am' and 'Still Bill,' which featured chart-topping singles and became staples in music history. After generously stepping away from the spotlight, the artist continued to influence many across various genres until passing away in 2020.

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Al Kaline

Baseball player, broadcaster, executive
Born
1934 91 years ago
Died
April 6th, 2020 4 years ago — 86 years old

Played 22 seasons in Major League Baseball, all with the Detroit Tigers. Debuted in 1953 and achieved 3,007 hits during his career. Won 10 Gold Glove Awards for defensive excellence and was named to 18 All-Star teams. Contributed to the Tigers' victory in the 1968 World Series. Transitioned to broadcasting and served as a notable commentator for the Tigers after retirement. Elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1980.

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John Prine

Country folk singer-songwriter with iconic songs
Born
October 10th, 1946 78 years ago
Died
April 7th, 2020 4 years ago — 73 years old

A prominent figure in the American country folk music scene, played a key role in shaping the genre with heartfelt storytelling and poignant lyrics. Released self-titled debut album in 1971, featuring classic songs like 'Angel from Montgomery' and 'Sam Stone'. His music drew inspiration from personal experiences and social issues, engaging listeners with relatable themes. Received multiple Grammy Awards, including Best Contemporary Folk Album for 'The Tree of Forgiveness' in 2019. His influence extended to various artists across genres, solidifying a lasting legacy in music.

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Herb Stempel

Television personality and game show contestant
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
April 7th, 2020 4 years ago — 94 years old

A television personality participated in the quiz show 'Twenty One', where a significant controversy over his victories arose. Stempel became embroiled in a scandal involving the show's producers, which led to questions regarding the integrity of the competition. After leaving the show, he became an advocate for fair practices in television programming. Stempel's experience highlighted issues of manipulation and ethics in media.

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