September 30

Born in 1902 in the eastern Arctic, Peter Pitseolak was a self-taught photographer who captured the daily life and traditions of the Inuit people. Over his career, he produced one of the earliest and most comprehensive photographic records of Arctic communities and landscapes. He authored books such as "People From Our Side," sharing firsthand accounts and images of Inuit heritage. His work helped preserve traditional knowledge and brought wider recognition to Inuit art and history. Pitseolak’s photographs have been exhibited internationally and remain invaluable resources for understanding Arctic culture. He passed away on September 30, 1973, leaving a lasting legacy as a cultural historian and artist.

Born Iris Colleen Summers in 1924, Mary Ford rose to fame in the 1950s through her musical partnership with guitarist Les Paul. Her clear, sweet vocals complemented Paul’s innovative electric guitar techniques, producing hits like "How High the Moon" and "Vaya Con Dios." Together they pioneered multi-tracking recording methods, shaping the sound of popular music. Ford’s warm voice and guitar accompaniment were key to the duo’s commercial and artistic success. After achieving numerous chart-topping singles, she retired from performing in the late 1960s. Mary Ford passed away on September 30, 1977, leaving a legacy as a groundbreaking vocalist.

Born in Kansas City in 1896, Virgil Thomson studied in Paris under Nadia Boulanger and Jean Cocteau. He collaborated with Gertrude Stein on the groundbreaking opera Four Saints in Three Acts. As a critic for the New York Herald Tribune, he championed modern American composers. His compositions blend simplicity with wit, including scores for films such as The Plow That Broke the Plains. In 1949, he won the Pulitzer Prize for his Symphony of Psalms. Thomson’s influence extended through his writings and lectures, making him a leading voice in American music.

Born in 1938 in Aleksinac, Yugoslavia, Toma Zdravković rose from humble beginnings to become a beloved folk icon. His poignant performances and distinctive vocal style earned him fame across the Balkans. Zdravković wrote and sang songs about love, loss, and personal struggle, resonating deeply with audiences. Hits such as “Dotakni me” and “Odlazi, odlazi” remain classics of Serbian popular music. Despite personal hardships and health issues, he continued to perform until his early death in 1991. His raw honesty and melodic talent have left an enduring legacy in regional music culture.

Born in 1939, Ronnie Dawson emerged as a driving force in the rockabilly revival movement. His virtuosic guitar work and engaging songwriting captured the spirit of early rock and roll. Known for energetic live shows, he brought new excitement to the stage and earned a loyal fan base. In the 1970s, he experienced a resurgence in popularity, touring extensively across Europe and the United States. Dawson's contributions helped spark renewed interest in classic rockabilly sounds. He continued to perform and record until his death in 2003, and his influence endures among musicians today.

Born in 1935, Jacques Levy carved out a career at the intersection of music and theater. He gained recognition for his lyrical songwriting, collaborating with acclaimed artists to create memorable rock songs. Levy also directed innovative stage productions and musicals on Broadway and Off-Broadway, blending narrative storytelling with musical performance. His creative vision influenced both the popular music scene and theatrical circles, with several of his works receiving critical praise. Throughout the 1970s, he continued to shape the musical landscape through bold directorial choices and genre-defying compositions. Levy remained active in the arts until his death in 2004, leaving behind a legacy of artistic experimentation.

Michael Relph was born in 1915 and studied at Oxford before embarking on a distinguished career in film. Joining Ealing Studios in the 1930s, he became a key collaborator on many of the studio's most celebrated comedies and dramas. As a producer and writer, Relph worked on classics such as The Blue Lamp and The Titfield Thunderbolt, shaping post-war British cinema. He also directed features and documentaries, demonstrating a keen eye for storytelling and social commentary. Partnering with directors like Basil Dearden, he tackled subjects ranging from crime to social justice. Relph's contributions earned him critical acclaim and industry awards throughout his life. His influence persisted after his death in 2004, marking him as one of Britain's most versatile film figures.

Born in 1941 in Los Angeles, Stephen J. Cannell overcame childhood polio to pursue a creative career in television. He co-created The Rockford Files in 1974 and went on to found Stephen J. Cannell Productions in 1979. Under his leadership, the company produced numerous hit shows, including The A-Team, 21 Jump Street, and Hunter, which became staples of 1980s pop culture. Known for his fast-paced storytelling and memorable characters, Cannell earned an Emmy Award and a place in the Television Academy Hall of Fame. Later in life, he authored novels and memoirs, showcasing his versatility as a writer. He was diagnosed with melanoma and died in 2010, leaving a lasting mark on American television.

Born in 1945, Kim Larsen rose to fame as the lead singer and guitarist of Gasolin', Denmark's most successful rock band. He penned enduring hits like 'Rabalderstræde' and 'Gasolin' 3', which became cultural touchstones in Scandinavia. After the band disbanded in 1978, Larsen pursued a prolific solo career, releasing over twenty albums that blended rock, pop, and folk influences. His charismatic stage presence and relatable lyrics earned him millions of fans across Europe. Larsen continued to perform and record until his death in 2018, solidifying his legacy as a national music icon.

Born in 1931, Koichi Sugiyama studied composition at the Tokyo National University of Fine Arts and Music before embarking on a prolific career. He gained international fame for creating the iconic melodies of the 'Dragon Quest' series, introducing orchestral music to video games. Sugiyama founded the Tokyo Metropolitan Symphony Orchestra, which performed his concert adaptations of game music and helped legitimize the genre. He received numerous honors, including the Medal with Purple Ribbon, for his contributions to the arts. Until his death in 2021, Sugiyama remained a passionate advocate for the cultural value of video game music.

Gavin Creel graduated from Oklahoma City University and quickly made his mark on Broadway with roles in productions such as 'Thoroughly Modern Millie' and 'La Cage aux Folles.' He won a Tony Award for his performance in the 2017 revival of 'Hello, Dolly!' and has been praised for his charismatic stage presence and vocal prowess. In addition to acting, Creel has released solo albums showcasing his songwriting talents. He has appeared in film and television, demonstrating versatility across media. A dedicated advocate for LGBT rights, Creel frequently participates in charity events and uses his platform to support social causes. He passed away in 2024.