November 18

Born in Savannah, Georgia, Mercer began crafting lyrics as a teenager and moved to New York in the early 1930s. He wrote enduring standards such as 'Moon River,' 'Jeepers Creepers,' and 'Accentuate the Positive.' In 1942, he co-founded Capitol Records, helping to launch the careers of artists like Frank Sinatra and Nat King Cole. His witty, heartfelt lyrics earned him four Academy Awards for Best Original Song. Over his prolific career, Mercer wrote more than 1,500 songs in collaboration with composers such as Hoagy Carmichael and Harold Arlen. His contributions continue to be celebrated as cornerstones of the Great American Songbook.

Born in 1944 in Potsdam, Germany, Joop studied illustration and began his career as a magazine art director. In 1986, he launched his eponymous fashion label JOOP!, which quickly gained international acclaim for its modern luxury designs. He expanded the brand into fragrances, accessories, and home goods, creating a global lifestyle empire. Joop has received multiple German Fashion Awards and continues to work as a designer and painter. His innovative vision has left a lasting mark on the fashion industry.