American musicians died at 44
Here are 6 famous musicians from United States of America died at 44:
F. Scott Fitzgerald
F. Scott Fitzgerald (September 24, 1896 Saint Paul-December 21, 1940 Hollywood) a.k.a. Francis Scott Key Fitzgerald, F Scott Fitzgerald or Fitzgerald was an American writer, novelist and poet. He had one child, Frances Scott Fitzgerald.
Fitzgerald is widely recognized as one of the greatest American writers of the 20th century. His works, set in the Jazz Age, often explore themes of decadence, idealism, social upheaval, and the loss of innocence. He is best known for his novel "The Great Gatsby," which has been adapted into numerous films and is widely regarded as a masterpiece of American literature.
Fitzgerald's other notable works include "This Side of Paradise," "Tender Is the Night," and "The Beautiful and Damned." Despite his literary success, Fitzgerald struggled with alcoholism and financial difficulties throughout his life. He often drew on his own experiences in his writing and was known for his ability to capture the mood and spirit of his time.
Today, Fitzgerald's legacy is celebrated through his literary works, biographies, and adaptations of his works for stage and screen. He continues to be an influential figure in American literature and a cultural icon of the Jazz Age.
Fitzgerald grew up in a middle-class family and attended the Newman School, a private Catholic prep school. He then went on to attend Princeton University but dropped out before graduating to join the army during World War I, an experience that would later shape his writing.
Fitzgerald's personal life was just as tumultuous as his professional one. He had a turbulent relationship with his wife, Zelda Sayre Fitzgerald, who also struggled with mental illness. Their relationship was the inspiration for the characters of many of his stories, including "Tender Is the Night." He had multiple affairs throughout his marriage and struggled with his own infidelity.
Despite his struggles, Fitzgerald left a lasting impact on American literature. His writing style and themes have influenced countless writers, and his legacy as a literary icon continues to inspire new generations of readers and writers alike.
Towards the end of his life, Fitzgerald moved to Hollywood to try his hand at screenwriting. While he did have some success in this field, including the adaptation of his short story, "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button," into a film in 2008, he struggled to establish himself as a screenwriter. Fitzgerald's health also began to decline during this time, and he suffered from ongoing problems with alcoholism.
After Fitzgerald's death, his work experienced a revival in popularity, partly due to the efforts of literary critic Edmund Wilson. Wilson's essays on Fitzgerald's work helped to reintroduce his novels and stories to a wider audience, and today, Fitzgerald is widely regarded as one of the greatest American writers of the 20th century.
In addition to his literary legacy, Fitzgerald is also remembered for his influence on the cultural and social movements of his time. His writing captured the spirit of the Jazz Age, a time of social and cultural change in America, and he was a key figure in the development of modernist literature.
Overall, Fitzgerald's life and work continue to be studied and celebrated, with new readers discovering the timeless themes and insights of his writing with each passing generation.
Fitzgerald's childhood and early life greatly influenced his writing. He was a very talented writer from a young age and wrote his first play at just 13 years old. He also worked as a journalist and advertising copywriter before pursuing a career in fiction writing. He was deeply influenced by poets such as Keats and Shelley, and his writing style reflects a poetic sensibility that is rare in American fiction. Fitzgerald's writing is known for its elegant prose, vivid descriptions, and sharp social commentary.
Despite his struggles with alcoholism and financial difficulties, Fitzgerald remained dedicated to his craft. In the years leading up to his death, he was working on a new novel, "The Last Tycoon," which was left unfinished at the time of his death. The novel was posthumously published and remains a testament to Fitzgerald's talent and vision as a writer.
Today, Fitzgerald's works continue to be studied and celebrated around the world. He is regarded as one of the most important American writers of the 20th century and his influence can be seen in the work of many contemporary writers. Fitzgerald's legacy is one of creativity, passion, and literary brilliance, and he remains an inspiration to writers and readers alike.
He died as a result of myocardial infarction.
Read more about F. Scott Fitzgerald on Wikipedia »
Henry David Thoreau
Henry David Thoreau (July 12, 1817 Concord-May 6, 1862 Concord) also known as Henry Thoreau, Thoreau or Thoreau, Henry David was an American writer, philosopher and poet.
Thoreau was best known for his book "Walden," which is a reflection upon the two years he spent living in a cabin by Walden Pond. He was also famous for his essay "Civil Disobedience," which advocated for individual resistance to unjust laws. Thoreau was deeply influenced by the natural world, and his ideas about simplicity, self-reliance and non-conformity continue to inspire. He was also an advocate for the abolition of slavery and an early environmentalist. Thoreau is considered one of the most important figures in American Transcendentalism.
In addition to his writing, Thoreau worked as a surveyor and a handyman. He was also a passionate abolitionist and an active participant in the Underground Railroad, helping slaves escape to freedom. Thoreau's political views were shaped by his belief in individual freedom and his opposition to unjust institutions such as slavery and government corruption. He was a strong supporter of the concept of civil disobedience and believed that individuals had a moral duty to stand up against oppressive laws. Thoreau's work has had a profound influence on American literature and culture, and many people consider him to be an American icon.
Thoreau's legacy has continued to inspire generations of writers, activists, and environmentalists. His love for nature and his commitment to preserving the environment were ahead of his time, and he is often seen as a pioneer of the modern environmental movement. Thoreau's ideas about non-conformity and individual liberty have also continued to influence modern philosophers and political theorists.
Despite his impact on American culture, during his lifetime Thoreau struggled to gain recognition as a writer. It was not until many years after his death that his work gained widespread recognition and acclaim.
Today, Thoreau is remembered as a visionary who challenged the status quo and encouraged people to live more intentionally, with an appreciation for the natural world and a commitment to their own personal freedom. His influence can be seen in a wide range of intellectual and cultural movements, from the civil rights movement to the modern sustainability movement. Though he passed away over 150 years ago, Thoreau's ideas and spirit continue to resonate with people around the world.
In addition to his work as a writer and activist, Thoreau was also a respected naturalist and scientist. He meticulously documented his observations of the plants, animals and ecosystems he encountered during his excursions into the wilderness, and his findings were published in scientific journals of the day. Thoreau's interest in the natural world was a central aspect of his philosophy, and he believed that the study of nature held valuable lessons for human society as well.
Thoreau's personal life was marked by a commitment to simplicity and self-sufficiency. He lived frugally, growing much of his own food and building his own cabin by the shores of Walden Pond. Thoreau's lifestyle reflected his belief in the importance of living deliberately, and he saw his time in nature as a way of reconnecting with the fundamental aspects of human existence.
Despite his influence and accomplishments, Thoreau remained a deeply private individual throughout his life. He never married and had few close friendships, preferring instead to focus on his work and his connection to the natural world. Thoreau's legacy as an important American thinker and cultural icon is a testament to the power of individual ideas and the enduring impact of those who dare to challenge conventional wisdom.
He died as a result of tuberculosis.
Read more about Henry David Thoreau on Wikipedia »
Ned Shank
Ned Shank (February 19, 1956-November 30, 2000) was an American writer.
He was born in Chicago, Illinois and grew up in the nearby suburb of Evanston. After graduating from college, Shank began his writing career as a reporter for a local newspaper before moving on to work as a freelance writer for various publications. He later became the staff writer for a national men's lifestyle magazine, where he covered a wide range of topics including travel, music, and sports.
In addition to his journalism work, Shank was also an accomplished author, having published several books on a variety of subjects, including a biography of legendary baseball pitcher Satchel Paige. He was known for his engaging writing style and his ability to bring his subjects to life on the page.
Tragically, Shank passed away at the age of 44 due to complications from a rare form of cancer. His contributions to the world of writing were celebrated by many in the industry, and he remains a beloved figure among those who knew him.
Despite his untimely death, Ned Shank left a lasting impact on the world of writing. His work continues to be celebrated and remembered by those who appreciate insightful, engaging reporting and storytelling. One of his most notable achievements was his award-winning book, "Baseball's Great Experiment: Jackie Robinson and His Legacy," which explored the life and legacy of the trailblazing athlete who broke baseball's color barrier. The book earned critical acclaim and helped to cement Shank's reputation as a talented and respected author.
Throughout his career, Shank also garnered numerous awards and accolades for his journalism work, including several nominations for the National Magazine Award. He was known for his ability to tackle complex subjects with grace and intelligence, and was a master at crafting compelling narrative arcs that kept readers engaged from start to finish.
In addition to his professional achievements, Shank was also remembered for his kind spirit and generous nature. He was an active member of his community, and devoted much of his time and energy to supporting various charitable causes, including cancer research and education initiatives. His legacy continues to inspire those who seek to make a positive impact in the world of writing and beyond.
Shank's love for writing started at an early age, when he was a student at Evanston Township High School. He served as the editor-in-chief of the school newspaper and was also a member of the debate team. After graduating from high school, Shank attended the University of Illinois, where he pursued a degree in journalism. While in college, he worked at the university newspaper, The Daily Illini, and also interned at several newspapers in the Chicago area.
After completing his degree, Shank began working as a reporter at the Evanston Review, a local newspaper. He soon realized that his passion lay in writing feature articles and profiles, and he moved to the world of freelance writing. His articles appeared in a wide variety of publications, including Esquire, GQ, and Rolling Stone.
Shank's success as a writer allowed him to pursue his passion for traveling, and he visited many countries around the world. His experiences abroad often influenced his writing and provided him with inspiration for his articles and books.
Despite his busy schedule, Shank always made time to mentor young writers and help them develop their skills. He was known for his encouraging nature and his willingness to share his knowledge and expertise. His dedication to the craft of writing and his commitment to helping others continue to inspire writers today.
In addition to his love for writing, Ned Shank was also an avid music fan and a talented musician. He played guitar and often incorporated his love of music into his writing, covering the careers of musicians such as Elvis Presley, Bob Dylan, and Bruce Springsteen. In his free time, Shank enjoyed attending concerts and music festivals, and he often wrote about the experience for his readers.Shank's legacy continues to be felt by those who knew and loved him. In his memory, several writing scholarships and awards have been established, including the Ned Shank Award for Excellence in Journalism. His commitment to journalistic integrity and his dedication to mentoring young writers have left a lasting mark on the industry.
Read more about Ned Shank on Wikipedia »
Jan Kerouac
Jan Kerouac (February 16, 1952 Albany-June 5, 1996 Albuquerque) a.k.a. Janet Michelle Kerouac was an American writer.
She was the only child of Beat Generation writers Jack Kerouac and Joan Haverty Kerouac. Jan Kerouac grew up in various places across the United States before settling in Mexico with her mother. She struggled with addiction and homelessness before pursuing a writing career in the 1980s.
Kerouac's writing was heavily influenced by her father's work and the Beat Generation. Her most well-known book, "Baby Driver" (1981), was a semi-autobiographical novel about a woman's search for her father. Kerouac also wrote poetry and essays, and worked as a playwright.
Tragically, Jan Kerouac died at the age of 44 from kidney failure, likely caused by health complications related to drug use. She left behind a small but significant body of literary work that sheds light on her unique perspective as the daughter of one of the most important literary figures of the 20th century.
Despite the challenges Kerouac faced in her personal life, she was a talented writer who received critical acclaim for her work. She won the 1990 Ellipsis Press fiction prize for her novel "Trainsong," which was published the following year. In addition to her writing, Kerouac was also a talented athlete and was a skilled hockey player. She briefly played semi-professional hockey in the early 1980s before dedicating herself fully to writing.
Kerouac's legacy continues to inspire those who are interested in the Beat Generation and countercultural literature. Her unique perspective as the daughter of one of America's most celebrated writers has opened up new avenues of exploration for scholars and fans alike. Despite her untimely death, her contributions to American literature continue to influence writers and readers around the world.
In addition to her literary and athletic pursuits, Jan Kerouac was also a political activist. She was involved in the feminist movement and was a member of the American Indian Movement. Kerouac was proud of her Native American heritage, which she inherited from her mother, and was vocal about issues affecting Indigenous communities. In the 1980s, she worked with AIM to provide aid to Indigenous communities affected by poverty and violence. Kerouac was also an advocate for animal rights and was an active supporter of animal welfare organizations.
Despite her success as a writer, Jan Kerouac faced many obstacles throughout her life. She struggled with addiction and homelessness, and had a difficult relationship with her father, who was largely absent from her life. Kerouac's work often dealt with themes of identity, family, and the search for meaning in a chaotic world.
Today, Jan Kerouac is remembered as a talented writer and a important figure in the Beat Generation. Her writing offers a unique perspective on the legacy of her father and the cultural landscape of the 20th century. Kerouac's life and work serve as a reminder of the challenges faced by artists who strive to pursue their passions in the face of adversity.
Additionally, Jan Kerouac was a musician and played guitar and sang in various bands throughout her life. She was also a dedicated traveler and spent time living in countries such as Mexico, Greece, and India. Her love of travel and exploration is reflected in her writing, which often features characters who are searching for a sense of place and belonging.In 2021, a documentary film about Jan Kerouac's life and legacy, "Jan Kerouac: A Journey Through the Life and Times of a Beat Legend," was released. The film features interviews with Kerouac's friends, family, and collaborators, and explores her impact on American literature and culture. Despite the challenges she faced in her lifetime, Jan Kerouac's work and activism continue to inspire new generations of writers and artists.
Read more about Jan Kerouac on Wikipedia »
Benjamin Lee Whorf
Benjamin Lee Whorf (April 24, 1897 Winthrop-July 26, 1941 Hartford) was an American anthropologist. He had three children, Raymond Ben Whorf, Robert Peckham Whorf and Celia Lee Whorf.
Whorf is best known for his study of linguistics and the relationship between language and culture. He proposed the theory of linguistic relativity, also known as the Sapir-Whorf hypothesis, which suggests that the structure of the language we speak affects the way we think and perceive the world around us. Whorf spent much of his career studying the language and culture of the Hopi people, and he authored several papers and books on the subject. Whorf also worked as a fire prevention engineer for the Hartford Insurance Company, and it was through his work that he became interested in the connection between language and thought. Though he died unexpectedly at the age of 44, Whorf's ideas continue to influence linguistics and cultural anthropology today.
Whorf was born in Winthrop, Massachusetts, and grew up in a family of moderate means. He was a gifted student and went on to study chemical engineering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). However, after several years in the field, he found that his true passion lay in the study of language and culture.
In addition to his linguistic and anthropological work, Whorf was deeply interested in the study of Native American culture and religion. He spent time with several tribes, including the Hopi and the Nahuatl people of Mexico, in order to gain a better understanding of their way of life.
After returning from his travels, Whorf took a job at the Hartford Insurance Company. He quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a respected fire prevention engineer. It was during his time at the insurance company that he began to explore the connection between language and thought in earnest.
Despite his relative lack of formal training in linguistics and anthropology, Whorf made a significant contribution to the field with his theory of linguistic relativity. His work helped to highlight the complex interplay between language, culture, and human cognition, and his ideas continue to be debated and analyzed to this day.
Whorf's theory of linguistic relativity proposed that the language a person speaks shapes their perception of the world around them. He believed that the structure of a language influences how an individual thinks, perceives, and understands reality. According to Whorf, language not only reflects but also shapes cultural differences, and it influences the way people behave and interact with the world.
In addition to his work on linguistic relativity, Whorf authored several papers and books on Hopi linguistics and culture. He studied their complex philosophical and religious beliefs, their social structure, and their language system. Whorf's work challenged the prevailing belief at the time that Native American languages were primitive and lacking in complexity.
Whorf's life was cut short when he died unexpectedly of cancer at the age of 44. Nevertheless, his work continues to influence not only linguistics and anthropology but also psychology and cognitive science. To this day, his theory of linguistic relativity remains a topic of debate and research. Whorf's legacy reminds us that language is not just a tool for communication but also a powerful force that shapes the way we think, perceive, and understand the world we live in.
Throughout his life, Whorf was also an accomplished writer and poet. He wrote several short stories and poems, some of which were published in literary journals such as Poetry and The Measure. He used his writing as a way to explore his own cultural identity and to express his fascination with language and culture. Whorf's writing often reflected his deep-seated belief that language and culture are inextricably linked, and that understanding one requires an understanding of the other.
Whorf's contributions to the field of linguistics were groundbreaking, but they were not without controversy. His theory of linguistic relativity was both praised and criticized, and it remains an area of active debate among linguists and anthropologists. However, it is largely agreed upon that Whorf's work helped to shift the focus of linguistics and anthropology away from a Eurocentric perspective and towards a more holistic understanding of human cognition and perception.
In recognition of his contributions to anthropology and linguistics, the Linguistic Society of America established the Benjamin Lee Whorf Memorial Lecture, which is delivered annually at the society's meeting. The lecture serves as a tribute to Whorf's enduring legacy and is a testament to the continued importance of his work.
Read more about Benjamin Lee Whorf on Wikipedia »
Jackson Pollock
Jackson Pollock (January 28, 1912 Cody-August 11, 1956 Springs) a.k.a. Paul Jackson Pollock or Jack the Dripper was an American artist, visual artist and painter.
Pollock was a leading figure of the abstract expressionist movement, known for his unique style of drip painting. He began his career in the 1930s working as an artist under the Works Progress Administration, a program that provided economic relief to struggling artists during the Great Depression.
In the late 1940s and early 1950s, Pollock developed his signature style of dripping and splattering paint onto large canvases laid on the floor, which he called "action painting". His innovative technique propelled him to international fame and cemented his place in art history.
Despite struggling with alcoholism throughout his life, Pollock continued to create and produce art until his untimely death at the age of 44. His legacy lives on, as his works continue to inspire and influence contemporary artists today.
Pollock was born in Cody, Wyoming and grew up in Arizona and California. He moved to New York City in 1930 to study art, where he was exposed to many contemporary artists and art movements. Pollock's work was heavily influenced by Surrealism and the theories of psychologist Carl Jung. He married fellow artist Lee Krasner in 1945, who was a major contributor to his success.
Pollock's drip painting technique was a major departure from traditional methods of painting, and it provoked criticism and controversy in its early days. However, he eventually received recognition and acclaim for his work, including a 1949 feature in Life magazine, which dubbed him "Jack the Dripper." In addition to his paintings, Pollock also created prints, drawings and sculptures.
Pollock's work has been exhibited in major museums around the world, including the Museum of Modern Art in New York, the Tate Modern in London, and the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. In 1998, his painting "No. 5, 1948" sold for a record-breaking $140 million at auction. He remains one of the most significant and influential artists of the 20th century.
Pollock's groundbreaking artwork was not only visually stunning, but also represented a deep emotional and psychological expression. He believed that the act of painting was a way to release inner emotions and feelings, and his large, abstract works often contained chaotic and intense brushstrokes that conveyed a sense of raw energy and emotion.
Tragically, Pollock's personal struggles with alcoholism and psychological issues worsened as his fame grew. He struggled with depression and anxiety throughout his life, and his marriage to Krasner was often fraught with tension. Despite his struggles, Pollock continued to push the boundaries of his art, experimenting with new techniques and materials until his untimely death.
In addition to his impact on the art world, Pollock's life and work have been the subject of numerous films, books, and documentaries. He remains a cultural icon and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of artists.
Pollock's career spanned just over two decades, but in that time he created a significant body of work that had a lasting impact on the art world. In addition to his influence on the abstract expressionist movement, Pollock is frequently cited as a major precursor to the color field painting movement of the 1950s and 60s. His works continue to be analyzed and debated by art historians and critics, who see in his bold and unconventional approach to painting a reflection of larger social and cultural trends of his time.
Despite his untimely death, Pollock's legacy has endured and his work remains popular with collectors and enthusiasts worldwide. In 2016, a major retrospective of his paintings was held at the Peggy Guggenheim Museum in Venice, Italy, drawing crowds and critical acclaim. Today, Pollock is remembered not just as a groundbreaking artist, but also as a symbol of the energy and creativity of post-war America.
He died in traffic collision.
Read more about Jackson Pollock on Wikipedia »