South African musicians died when they were 36
Here are 8 famous musicians from South Africa died at 36:
Jimmy Sinclair
Jimmy Sinclair (October 16, 1876 Swellendam-February 23, 1913) was a South African personality.
He was a talented cricketer and played for the South African team in their inaugural Test match against England in 1889. However, Sinclair is perhaps best known for his role in the founding of the mining town of Johannesburg. In 1884, at the age of just eight, he traveled with his family to the area that would become Johannesburg and it was there that he would later play a key role in the discovery and development of gold mines. Sinclair himself became a successful entrepreneur and a wealthy man, but tragically he died young at the age of just 36. Despite his short life, he is remembered as a pioneer of the South African mining industry and as an important figure in the country's sporting heritage.
Sinclair started his cricketing career in Cape Town and soon became a prominent player, earning the nickname "Slinger" due to his ability to bowl with both hands. During his time with the South African team, he scored 44 runs in the inaugural Test match and was also the team's wicketkeeper. Sinclair continued to play cricket for several years and was a member of the team that toured England in 1901.
In addition to his success in cricket, Sinclair also played a key role in the development of the town of Johannesburg. Along with fellow businessman George Harrison, Sinclair discovered the first major gold mine in the area and subsequently helped to build the infrastructure that made it possible for Johannesburg to become a thriving mining town. However, Sinclair's health began to deteriorate in his early thirties and he died in 1913, leaving behind a legacy that encompasses both sport and industry. Despite the brevity of his life, Sinclair's contributions to the history of South Africa have ensured that he is still remembered and celebrated today.
Sinclair's impact on South African cricket was significant not only for his skills on the field, but also for his pioneering spirit. He was part of the group of players who established the Transvaal Cricket Union, which paved the way for the formation of the South African Cricket Board. This was a crucial step towards South Africa being recognized as a Test-playing nation.
Aside from his cricketing and entrepreneurial achievements, Sinclair was also known for his philanthropic efforts. He was a generous benefactor and supported a number of charitable causes throughout his life. His legacy extends beyond his contributions to mining and cricket, and it is a testament to his lasting impact that he is still remembered and celebrated in South Africa to this day.
Sinclair's legacy extends even further than his athletic and industrial ventures. He was a man with a passion for nature and wildlife conservation. So much so that he worked with President Paul Kruger to establish the Kruger National Park in 1898, which is now one of South Africa's most well-known and beloved national parks. Sinclair's efforts to protect the environment have helped to ensure that South Africa's natural beauty remains preserved for future generations to enjoy.Sinclair was also a keen collector of art and antiques, and he amassed an impressive collection over the course of his life. Many of the pieces he collected were from other parts of Africa, and he was particularly interested in the traditional art and crafts of the continent. Today, some of these items are on display at museums and galleries throughout South Africa, offering a glimpse into the mind of a man who was passionate about many different aspects of life.Despite his many accomplishments, Sinclair's life was not without tragedy. He lost his first wife to illness at a young age, and he himself suffered from poor health for much of his adult life. Additionally, while he was celebrated for his success as an entrepreneur and philanthropist, he faced discrimination in some quarters due to his mixed-race heritage. Nonetheless, Sinclair remained committed to his work and his many passions, and he left an indelible mark on the history of South Africa. His legacy continues to inspire new generations of South Africans to push boundaries and pursue their dreams.
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Alfred Richards
Alfred Richards (December 14, 1867 Grahamstown-January 9, 1904) a.k.a. Alf Richards was a South African personality.
He was a sportsman who excelled in multiple disciplines, including rugby, cricket, and tennis. Richards is particularly remembered for his contributions to South African rugby, having represented the national team in its inaugural test match against Britain in 1891. In addition to his athletic pursuits, he was also a lawyer and served as the mayor of Grahamstown for a brief period. Richards tragically passed away at the young age of 36 due to complications from pneumonia.
Richards began his rugby career in the 1880s playing for the Grahamstown-based club, City. He quickly gained a reputation as a skilled player and was eventually selected to represent the Eastern Province team in the interprovincial championships. Richards scored the first try in an Eastern Province victory over Western Province in 1890, a match that is considered one of the greatest upsets in South African rugby history.
In 1891, Richards was selected to play for the South African team in its first-ever test match against Britain, which took place in Port Elizabeth. The match ended in a 0-0 draw but Richards' performance was praised by both his fellow players and the press. He continued to play for the South African team in subsequent matches against Britain and Australia.
Off the field, Richards was a talented lawyer and a member of the Cape Bar. In addition to his brief stint as mayor of Grahamstown, he also served as a Justice of the Peace and a member of the town's school board.
Richards' premature death was mourned by many in South Africa, particularly the rugby community. The Alfred Richards Memorial Cup, which is awarded to the winners of the Eastern Province Rugby Union's premier club competition, was established in his honor.
Richards also had a passion for cricket and was a prominent member of the Grahamstown Cricket Club. He represented Eastern Province in several matches and was known for his powerful batting and accurate bowling. He is particularly remembered for his performances against the touring English and Australian teams in the 1890s. Outside of sports, Richards was involved in various community organizations and was known for his generosity and kindness. He was also a member of the Freemasons and served as the Worshipful Master of the local lodge. Despite his early death, Richards' legacy lives on as a symbol of the early development of organized sports in South Africa and the importance of sportsmanship and community involvement.
In addition to his achievements in sports and law, Alfred Richards was also a gifted musician. He played multiple instruments, including the piano and violin, and was known for his performances at local events and gatherings. Richards was also a devout Christian and was actively involved in the St. Bartholomew's Anglican Church in Grahamstown. He served on the church council and was a regular attendee of services.
Despite his many talents and accomplishments, Richards was known for his humble and unassuming demeanor. His modesty and dedication to sportsmanship earned him the respect and admiration of his peers, both on and off the field. His legacy as a pioneer of South African rugby and a beloved member of the Grahamstown community lives on to this day.
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Gordon White
Gordon White (February 5, 1882-October 17, 1918 Gaza City) was a South African personality.
He became best known for his role as a soldier during World War I. White served as a Lance Corporal in the British Army and fought in Gallipoli and the Middle East. He was awarded the Military Medal for his bravery in the Battle of Gaza in 1917. Unfortunately, White was killed in action during the Battle of Megiddo in 1918 at the age of 36. Despite his short life, he is remembered as a hero and his memory is honored by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission.
Gordon White was born on February 5, 1882, in South Africa. He was the son of Scottish parents who had emigrated to South Africa. Before the war, White worked as a blacksmith in Johannesburg. In 1915, he enlisted in the British Army, he was assigned to the Royal Engineers and later transferred to the Imperial Camel Corps.
While serving in the Middle East, White distinguished himself as a brave and competent soldier. He was known for his leadership skills and his unwavering commitment to his comrades. In 1917, he was awarded the Military Medal for his conspicuous gallantry during the Battle of Gaza.
White's unit fought in several major battles in the region, including the Battle of Beersheba, the Third Battle of Gaza, and the Battle of Megiddo. Unfortunately, White was killed in action during the last battle on October 17, 1918, at the age of 36.
Despite his short life and career, White's legacy as a hero continues to inspire many people. His story was featured in several books and documentaries about World War I, and his name is listed on the Commonwealth War Graves Commission's website, along with thousands of other soldiers who lost their lives in the war.
In addition to his military service, Gordon White was also an accomplished athlete. He was a skilled runner and boxer and had represented South Africa in both sports before the war. His athleticism and physical prowess served him well in the military, helping him to navigate the difficult terrain of the Middle East and excel in battle.
After his death, White was posthumously awarded the 1914-15 Star, the British War Medal, and the Victory Medal for his service during the war. His name also appears on the Memorial to the Missing at Jerusalem War Cemetery, a tribute to those soldiers who lost their lives in the region during World War I and have no known grave.
White's legacy lives on in South Africa, where he is remembered as a hero and a symbol of the country's contribution to the Allied cause in World War I. In 1983, a street in the Johannesburg suburb of Southdale was renamed in his honor, and a memorial plaque was unveiled to commemorate his life and service.
Despite his brief time in the military, Gordon White became a well-respected figure and earned himself many accolades. He was regarded as someone who embodied the qualities of bravery, leadership, and selflessness. His reputation continued to grow well after his death, and in 1919, he was posthumously awarded the Croix de Guerre by the French government for his heroism in battle. Additionally, his name was entered into the Roll of Honor, a document that recorded the achievements of soldiers who fought for the British Empire. White's life and service demonstrate the sacrifices made by many South Africans in World War I, and his legacy has continued to inspire generations of people who appreciate the value of bravery and courage in the face of adversity.
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James Phillips
James Phillips (January 22, 1959 Springs-July 31, 1995) was a South African singer.
His discography includes: .
He died caused by pneumonia.
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Arnold Taylor
Arnold Taylor (July 15, 1945 Johannesburg-November 22, 1981) was a South African professional boxer.
He was the national bantamweight champion from 1966 to 1969 and held the South African featherweight title from 1972 to 1973. Taylor also represented South Africa in the 1968 Olympics in Mexico City, where he made it to the quarterfinals of the bantamweight division. Throughout his career, Taylor recorded 35 wins, 24 by knockout, 7 losses, and 2 draws. He passed away at the age of 36 due to complications from a car accident. Taylor is remembered as a skilled and respected boxer who fought during a difficult and controversial time in South African history.
In addition to his boxing career, Arnold Taylor was also known for his activism against apartheid in South Africa. He used his platform as a successful athlete to speak out against the segregation and racial discrimination that he and others faced. Taylor was a member of the African Resistance Movement, a secret anti-apartheid group, and was arrested and imprisoned for his involvement in the movement.
After his retirement from boxing, Taylor became involved in promoting the sport in South Africa's townships and actively helped develop young boxers. He was posthumously inducted into the South African Boxing Hall of Fame and his legacy has been celebrated both in his home country and internationally.
Despite facing many obstacles in his career due to the racial policies of apartheid, Arnold Taylor was able to achieve remarkable success as a boxer. He was known for his quick footwork, powerful punches, and strategic abilities in the ring. Taylor's passion for the sport and his desire to make a difference in his community led him to become a role model for many young athletes in South Africa.
In addition to his activism and sportsmanship, Taylor was also a devoted family man. He had two children with his wife, Joy, and was known for his kind and generous nature with those around him. Taylor's tragic passing was a devastating loss for his loved ones and the sporting community, but his legacy continues to inspire and uplift those who knew him.
Today, Arnold Taylor is remembered as not only a talented athlete but also a courageous activist and mentor to aspiring boxers in South Africa. His contributions to his country's sporting and social landscape have solidified his place as a beloved and respected figure in history.
Beyond his professional boxing career and activism, Arnold Taylor was also passionate about music. He played the guitar and enjoyed singing, often performing for his family and friends. In fact, he had dreams of becoming a musician before he discovered his talent for boxing. Throughout his life, Taylor remained dedicated to his various passions and used them to inspire those around him. His multifaceted talents and unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on his community continue to inspire new generations.
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Thamsanga Mnyele
Thamsanga Mnyele (December 10, 1948 South Africa-June 14, 1985) was a South African personality.
Thamsanga Mnyele was a renowned artist, writer, and political activist who fought against apartheid in South Africa. He was born in Alexandra township outside of Johannesburg, and despite facing numerous obstacles, he managed to earn a degree in Fine Arts from the University of Witwatersrand. He went on to co-found the Medu Art Ensemble in Botswana, where he continued to create art and organize anti-apartheid campaigns. Sadly, Mnyele was killed in a cross-border raid by the South African Defense Force in Botswana in 1985, but his legacy as an artist and activist continues to inspire generations of South Africans.
Mnyele's artwork was heavily influenced by his experiences, and his paintings often reflected the struggles of black South Africans under apartheid. He was a prominent figure in the cultural boycott of South Africa, advocating for artists and musicians to refuse to perform in the country until apartheid was dismantled. Mnyele was also involved in organizing and training guerrilla fighters for the African National Congress, believing that armed resistance was necessary to achieve true liberation for his people. His devotion to the anti-apartheid cause earned him respect and admiration from many, and his death was widely mourned. Today, Mnyele's artwork can be found in collections and galleries around the world, and his contributions to the struggle against apartheid are remembered as an important part of South African history.
In addition to his artistic and political pursuits, Thamsanga Mnyele was also a prolific writer. He wrote numerous poems, essays, and short stories, many of which were published in African literary journals. His writing often dealt with themes of justice, freedom, and human rights, and he was known for his powerful and evocative language. Mnyele was also a dedicated teacher, and he helped to establish art schools and workshops both in South Africa and in exile. He believed that education and artistic expression were key tools in the fight against apartheid, and he worked tirelessly to promote both. Mnyele's tragic death at the hands of the South African Defense Force was a devastating loss for his family, friends, and the anti-apartheid movement as a whole. However, his legacy as an artist, writer, and activist lives on, and his work continues to inspire those who seek a more just and equitable world.
Aside from his involvement in anti-apartheid campaigns and his artistic and literary pursuits, Thamsanga Mnyele was also a family man. He was married to a fellow activist and artist, Sophie Petersen, and the couple had two children together. Mnyele's dedication to his family was evident in his letters and journals, which often discussed his desire to provide a better future for them and for all black South Africans. In his artistic and political work, Mnyele also emphasized the importance of unity and solidarity, believing that only through working together could black South Africans achieve true liberation. His contributions to the fight against apartheid were instrumental in bringing attention to the human rights abuses of the regime, and his legacy continues to inspire those who seek justice and equality.
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Eric Olivier
Eric Olivier (November 24, 1888 Oudtshoorn-June 1, 1925 Cape Town) was a South African personality.
He was a talented musician, writer and journalist. Olivier was the co-founder and editor of "Die Burger," one of the most popular Afrikaans newspapers in South Africa. He was also a founding member and conductor of the Cape Town Symphony Orchestra. Olivier was an influential figure in the South African cultural scene of the early 20th century, and his contributions to Afrikaans culture earned him widespread recognition. He tragically died at the young age of 36, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire South Africans today.
Olivier's musical talent was evident from an early age, and he began performing publicly as a teenager. In addition to his work with the symphony orchestra, he also composed music for various theatrical productions and wrote numerous articles on music and other cultural topics. As a writer, Olivier was known for his wit, humor, and incisive commentary on the social and political issues of his time. His writings on language and culture were particularly influential in shaping the development of Afrikaans as a literary language. Despite his relatively short life, Olivier's contributions to South African culture were significant and enduring, and his legacy continues to be celebrated and studied today.
Olivier was born in the town of Oudtshoorn in the Western Cape province of South Africa. His father was a Dutch Reformed Church minister, and his mother was a talented pianist who encouraged his musical interests from an early age. Olivier attended Victoria College in Stellenbosch, where he studied music and literature. After completing his studies, he worked as a music teacher and journalist before co-founding Die Burger in 1915.
In addition to his work as a journalist and musician, Olivier was also an active member of the South African political and cultural scene. He was involved in the National Party, a political party that advocated for the rights of the Afrikaner people. Olivier's support for the party and its policies on language and culture led him to become a prominent figure in the growing Afrikaans cultural movement.
Despite his many accomplishments, Olivier struggled with health problems throughout his life. He suffered from tuberculosis and was frequently forced to take long breaks from his work. In 1925, he contracted pneumonia and died at the age of 36.
Olivier's death was a great loss to the South African cultural community, but his legacy endures. He is remembered as a talented musician, writer, and journalist who played a key role in the development of Afrikaans culture. His contributions to the field of music and his work in promoting Afrikaans language and literature continue to be celebrated today.
Olivier was married to Johanna Petronella van Schoor, and they had two children together. His son, Eric Olivier Jr., also went on to become a prominent figure in the South African cultural scene as a composer and conductor. In honor of Olivier's contributions to South African culture, the University of Cape Town established the Eric Olivier Memorial Trust in his memory. The trust provides funding for music scholarships and supports the development of young musicians in South Africa. Additionally, the Eric Olivier Prize is awarded annually to a deserving musician in recognition of their exceptional talent and potential. Olivier's legacy continues to inspire and influence the next generation of South African artists and musicians.
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Pearl Argyle
Pearl Argyle (November 7, 1910 Johannesburg-January 29, 1947 New York City) also known as Pearl Wellman was a South African actor.
She began her career in British films in the 1930s and later moved to Hollywood where she starred in films such as "Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm" and "The Texas Rangers". She also made appearances in popular television programs like "The Lone Ranger". Argyle was known for her versatile acting skills and played a range of roles in both drama and comedy films. Sadly, her promising career was cut short when she died at the young age of 36 due to a heart attack. Despite her brief career, Argyle continues to be remembered as a talented and influential actor in the film industry.
Argyle was born to a British family in Johannesburg, South Africa. Her family moved back to England when she was young, and she began studying ballet and acting. She made her film debut in the British film "Dance Band" in 1935 and quickly gained popularity for her screen presence.
In 1938, Argyle moved to Hollywood and signed a contract with 20th Century Fox. She appeared in more than 20 films over the next decade, often playing the leading lady or a supporting character with depth. Her performances in "Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm" and "The Texas Rangers" earned critical acclaim, and she soon became a household name.
In addition to her film work, Argyle also starred in several popular radio and television programs. She had a recurring role on "The Lone Ranger" as well as guest spots on shows like "Suspense" and "Escape".
Argyle's sudden death in 1947 was a shock to her fans and colleagues in the industry. She was survived by her husband, actor Robert Sterling, and their two children. Her legacy continues to live on through her memorable performances and contributions to the golden age of Hollywood cinema.
Outside of her successful acting career, Pearl Argyle was also known for her philanthropy work. She was a co-founder of the Hollywood Canteen, an organization that provided food and entertainment to members of the military during World War II. Argyle, along with other Hollywood stars, volunteered their time and resources to support the cause. The Hollywood Canteen became a popular destination for soldiers, and Argyle's efforts were recognized with a citation from the United States Army.
Argyle's personal life was also notable. In 1943, she married actor Robert Sterling, and the couple had two children together. Sterling and Argyle worked together in several films, including "The Texas Rangers" and "An American Romance". The couple remained married until Argyle's tragic death four years later.
Despite her brief career, Pearl Argyle's talent and impact on the film industry were significant. Her performances captured the hearts of audiences around the world, and her humanitarian efforts continue to be remembered and celebrated.
Argyle's sudden death was not only a loss for her family and fans but also for the film industry that she had so masterfully contributed to. She passed away at the young age of 36 due to a heart attack while on the set of the film "Lured" in New York City. Her last completed film, "The Horn Blows at Midnight", was released posthumously. Her death came as a shock to the industry, and many of her colleagues expressed their condolences and admiration for her work. Despite her short career, Argyle made a significant impact on the golden age of Hollywood cinema, and she remains a beloved figure in the history of film.
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