July 19

Špiro Bocarić was a Serbian painter known for his realistic portraits and seascapes. He studied art in Belgrade and furthered his education in European art centers. His work captured the daily life and traditions of coastal communities. He contributed to the development of modern Serbian art in the early 20th century. In 1941, during the Genocide of Serbs, he was tragically executed by occupying forces. His artistic legacy endures through his evocative canvases displayed in galleries and museums.

Born William Orville Frizzell in 1928, Lefty Frizzell rose to fame with his 1950 debut single 'If You’ve Got the Money (I’ve Got the Time).' His relaxed, melodic singing style and heartfelt lyrics set a new standard in country music. Frizzell’s influence can be heard in the work of later legends such as Merle Haggard and George Jones. He recorded numerous hits throughout the 1950s and became a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Despite personal struggles, his recordings left an indelible mark on the genre. Frizzell was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1975, the year he died at the age of 47.

Born in 1919, Roger Doucet rose to prominence in the 1970s as the official anthem singer for the Montreal Canadiens. His operatic tenor voice brought a dramatic flair to O Canada, making each performance a memorable highlight for fans. He also performed in opera houses and concert halls across Canada, showcasing his versatility as a classically trained singer. Beyond sports, Doucet recorded several albums and appeared on television specials. His rendition of the national anthem became an enduring symbol of Canadian national pride. He continued to perform until his death in 1981, leaving a lasting musical legacy.

Dave Carter was an influential American folk musician who blended Celtic, Appalachian, and contemporary folk traditions. Born in Muncie, Indiana, he moved to Portland, Oregon, where he began writing poignant songs full of spiritual and mystical imagery. He formed a highly acclaimed musical partnership with Tracy Grammer, releasing albums such as "When I Go" and "Tanglewood Tree." Carter's introspective lyrics explored themes of love, identity, and the human condition, earning him a devoted following. His sudden death in a car accident in 2002 at age 49 shocked the folk community and left his musical journey incomplete. Posthumously released recordings and tribute concerts have kept his legacy alive among folk enthusiasts. His work continues to inspire songwriters seeking authenticity and depth in their craft.

Sylvia Daoust was born in Montreal in 1902 and studied sculpture at École des beaux-arts de Montréal and in Paris under Antoine Bourdelle. Her work blended modernist abstraction with religious and humanist themes, often reflecting Quebec’s cultural identity. Daoust taught sculpture at her alma mater and influenced generations of Canadian artists through her innovative techniques. Major public commissions include the tympanum at Saint Joseph’s Oratory in Montreal and numerous civic monuments. She was the first woman to receive the Order of Canada in 1975 for her contributions to the arts. Daoust’s sculptures are held in collections across Canada and her legacy endures in the Quebec art community. She died on July 19, 2004, remembered for her groundbreaking vision and dedication to public art.

Roberto Fontanarrosa was one of Argentina's most beloved cartoonists and humorists. Born in Rosario in 1944, he gained fame for creating the gaucho character Inodoro Pereyra, which appeared in popular comic strips. His sharp wit and cultural satire resonated with readers across Latin America. In addition to cartoons, he authored short stories and graphic novels that showcased his narrative talent. Fontanarrosa's work remains a cornerstone of Argentine popular culture.

Mikhail Gorsheniov was a Russian musician and the charismatic lead vocalist of Korol i Shut, one of Russia’s most influential punk rock bands. He co-founded the group in 1988 and became known for his theatrical stage presence and storytelling lyrics inspired by horror and folk tales. Gorsheniov’s distinctive voice and songwriting helped shape the band’s cult following. Under his leadership, Korol i Shut released numerous albums and toured extensively across Russia and Europe. His untimely death in 2013 marked the end of an era for Russian punk music.

Van Alexander was an influential American composer, arranger, and conductor whose catchy melodies shaped the sound of 20th-century jazz. He gained fame with the 1938 hit song 'A-Tisket, A-Tasket' performed by Ella Fitzgerald, which he co-wrote and arranged. Over his seven-decade career, he wrote music for film, television, and Broadway, showcasing his versatility across genres. A veteran bandleader, Alexander led orchestras and recorded albums that captured the exuberance of the swing era. His contributions to jazz and popular music earned him numerous accolades and a lasting place in American musical history.

Carmino Ravosa was an influential American composer, pianist, and producer celebrated for his work in children's educational music. He wrote and produced hundreds of songs and musicals for school performances, enriching music curricula nationwide. Ravosa collaborated with publishers to create interactive songbooks and recordings that fostered creativity in young audiences. His accessible melodies and engaging lyrics made him a beloved figure among teachers, students, and families. Throughout his career, he received numerous awards for excellence in music education, leaving a lasting imprint on arts in the classroom.

Jon Schnepp was an American producer, director, and animator renowned for his passion for comic book culture and animation. He directed the documentary "The Death of 'Superman Lives': What Happened?" and contributed to series like "Metalocalypse" and "Superjail!". As a voice actor, Schnepp lent his talents to cartoons, bringing characters to life with his distinctive voice. A skilled cartoonist and writer, he also worked as an editor and cinematographer, showcasing his versatility across film and television. His creative vision and enthusiasm for genre entertainment inspired fans and colleagues alike, making him a beloved figure in the animation community.

Toumani Diabaté was a master kora player from Mali whose virtuosity and creativity elevated the ancient West African harp-lute to international acclaim. Born into a family of griots, he released groundbreaking albums such as 'Kaira' and 'Toumani & Sidiki', collaborating with artists across genres from jazz to classical. He founded the Symmetric Orchestra, blending traditional Malian rhythms with modern arrangements and instrumentation. A nine-time Grammy nominee, Diabaté championed cultural preservation and musical innovation, performing on stages worldwide. His work inspired a new generation of musicians and solidified his status as one of Africa's most influential cultural ambassadors.