Mbongeni Ngema was an award winning South African playwright, lyricist, composer, director, choreographer, and theatre producer best known for for co-writing the 1981 play Woza Albert! and co-writing the 1988 multi-award-winning musical Sarafina!. Ngema's theatrical career began when he joined Gibson Kente's theatre company as a singer and trainee actor. He acted in local productions in the 1970s, before becoming a playwright, screenwriter, and librettist. He later founded his own theatre compan... moreMbongeni Ngema was an award winning South African playwright, lyricist, composer, director, choreographer, and theatre producer best known for for co-writing the 1981 play Woza Albert! and co-writing the 1988 multi-award-winning musical Sarafina!. Ngema's theatrical career began when he joined Gibson Kente's theatre company as a singer and trainee actor. He acted in local productions in the 1970s, before becoming a playwright, screenwriter, and librettist. He later founded his own theatre company, Committed Artists, where he trained young men who had no experience in acting. Ngema's plays often reflected the spirit of black South Africans under apartheid. He depicted struggles of the apartheid era such as endemic poverty, repression and political marginalization, which were the core themes of Ngema’s stage productions. He portrayed these themes through the use of dark humor, music, dance and dignity. He was also one of the vocal arrangers for the Disney film The Lion King (1994), for which he earned a multi-platinum award for selling over 6 million copies. Some of his other work include Umoja: The African Musical, Mandela: The Musical, Mama and Asinamali. Throughout his career Ngema won numerous awards such as Grammy Award for The Lion King's vocal arangement. He was Inducted in the New York Walk of Fame in 1998.
Bulelwa Mkutukana, better known by her stage name Zahara, was a South African Award winning
singer-songwriter best known for her debut double platinum album, Loliwe released in 2011. Zahara’s
musical journey began when she began teaching herself how to play the guitar at a young age, she rose
to prominence in 2011 with the release of her debut album, "Loliwe," which became a cultural
phenomenon in South Africa. The album's soul-stirring melodies and poignant lyrics resonated deeply
with lis... moreBulelwa Mkutukana, better known by her stage name Zahara, was a South African Award winning
singer-songwriter best known for her debut double platinum album, Loliwe released in 2011. Zahara’s
musical journey began when she began teaching herself how to play the guitar at a young age, she rose
to prominence in 2011 with the release of her debut album, "Loliwe," which became a cultural
phenomenon in South Africa. The album's soul-stirring melodies and poignant lyrics resonated deeply
with listeners, earning Zahara numerous accolades and propelling her to national and international
fame. "Loliwe" went on to achieve multi-platinum status, making Zahara one of the best-selling artists in
South Africa. Throughout her career, Zahara continued to captivate audiences with her subsequent
albums, including "The Beginning Live" and "Phendula." Her music effortlessly blended elements of Afro-
soul, jazz, and folk, creating a unique and soulful sound that touched the hearts of millions. Beyond her
artistic achievements, Zahara used her platform to address social issues, including women's rights and
empowerment, and she became a role model for aspiring musicians across Africa. Through out her
career she won numerous prestigious awards and accolades, including South African Music Awards
(SAMAs) and Metro FM Music Awards, among others. Zahara's success story was a testament to the
power of perseverance and determination, as she overcame personal challenges and adversity to reach
the pinnacle of her career.
Sara Tavares was a highly accomplished Portuguese musician, singer, composer, guitarist, and
percussionist best known for representing her country in the 1994 Eurovision Song competition. The
contest was held in Dublin, Tavares entered with the song 'Chamar a Música', which came in eighth
place. Tavares had a passioned for music from an early age but it wasn't until when she won the first
edition of Chuva de Estrelas in 1994, a talent show in Portugal that helped her to career to take off. I... moreSara Tavares was a highly accomplished Portuguese musician, singer, composer, guitarist, and
percussionist best known for representing her country in the 1994 Eurovision Song competition. The
contest was held in Dublin, Tavares entered with the song 'Chamar a Música', which came in eighth
place. Tavares had a passioned for music from an early age but it wasn't until when she won the first
edition of Chuva de Estrelas in 1994, a talent show in Portugal that helped her to career to take off. It
was during that very same year that, she followed her victory up with her eighth place finish in Dublin.
Soon after that she release her first album titled 'Sara Tavares & Shout!'. Tavares had an ability to
blend various musical genres such as traditional Cape Verdean rhythms, jazz, soul, and pop, creating a
unique and captivating sound that resonated with audiences worldwide. She was committed to
promoting cultural diversity and social awareness through her music. She also used her platform to
advocate for social justice causes and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Cape Verde. Throughout her
career, Tavares received numerous accolades and awards for her musical contributions, including the
Portuguese Golden Globe for Best Portuguese Singer in 2000 and her 2005 album 'Balance' earned her a
platinum record nomination at the BBC Radio 3 World Music Awards.
Oladipupo Olabode Oladimeji, best known by his stage name Oladips was a highly influential Nigerian
rapper best known for winning the 2015 King is Here competition. Oladips’ rapping career started in
2012 when he was 17 and did a cover of Drake & Trey’s song. The cover drew attention to him and
sparked a new beginning in his life. In 2015, the young rapper participated in and won the rapping
contest, ‘King is Here’ organised by D’banj. After the competition he went on to release hit song... moreOladipupo Olabode Oladimeji, best known by his stage name Oladips was a highly influential Nigerian
rapper best known for winning the 2015 King is Here competition. Oladips’ rapping career started in
2012 when he was 17 and did a cover of Drake & Trey’s song. The cover drew attention to him and
sparked a new beginning in his life. In 2015, the young rapper participated in and won the rapping
contest, ‘King is Here’ organised by D’banj. After the competition he went on to release hit songs such as
Lalakukulala, Mainland to Highland, Chache, She tells me say, Champaign, just to mention a few. His
impact on the Nigerian music scene was profound, and his legacy continues to inspire aspiring artists.
Oladips’ unique style and lyrical prowess set him apart as a trailblazer in the rap genre. His ability to
blend traditional Nigerian sounds with modern hip-hop elements earned him widespread acclaim. His
dedication to his craft and his unwavering commitment to authenticity made him a beloved figure in the
music community. Oladips used his platform to address social issues and advocate for positive change,
earning him respect not only as an artist but also as a voice for the people. His performances were
electrifying, captivating audiences with his dynamic stage presence and thought-provoking lyrics.
Garry Mapanzure born Gerry Garikai Munashe Mapanzure, was a Zimbabwean Award winning Afropop singer. He rose to fame in the early 2020s with his unique blend of Afropop and traditional Zimbabwean music. Mapanzure's music was characterized by his soulful voice, catchy melodies, and moving lyrics, which often dealt with themes of love, social justice, and personal struggle. Garry started his musical career in late 2017 and released his first single called Wapunza which clocked over 4.2 million vie... moreGarry Mapanzure born Gerry Garikai Munashe Mapanzure, was a Zimbabwean Award winning Afropop singer. He rose to fame in the early 2020s with his unique blend of Afropop and traditional Zimbabwean music. Mapanzure's music was characterized by his soulful voice, catchy melodies, and moving lyrics, which often dealt with themes of love, social justice, and personal struggle. Garry started his musical career in late 2017 and released his first single called Wapunza which clocked over 4.2 million views on YouTube. In 2019 the contemporary artist was nominated for the prestigious AFRIMA awards in the Best Artiste, Duo or Group in African R'N'B & Soul category for his song TV Room, a collaboration with Hillzy. Over the course of his career, Mapanzure released several successful albums and collaborated with a variety of artists, including other Zimbabwean musicians like Kae Caps and other international acts. He was known for his energetic live performances, which often featured traditional instruments and dance. Mapanzure also won awards such as the AFRIMA Awards 2019 for Best Artiste in African R'N'B & Soul, Masvingo Music and Arts Awards and Glamour Awards 2018. His death was met with an outpouring of grief from fans and fellow musicians, who remembered him as a talented and influential artist.
Roger Henry Brough Whittaker, known as Roger Whittaker, was a British singer-songwriter and musician best known for his 1969 hit Durham Town the Leavin. He was also known for his baritone singing voice and trademark whistling ability as well as his guitar skills. Whittaker's musical journey began in the late 1960s when he released his debut album, "Whistle Stop." His breakthrough came with the release of the single "Durham Town The Leavin' " in 1969, which became a massive hit and propelled him ... moreRoger Henry Brough Whittaker, known as Roger Whittaker, was a British singer-songwriter and musician best known for his 1969 hit Durham Town the Leavin. He was also known for his baritone singing voice and trademark whistling ability as well as his guitar skills. Whittaker's musical journey began in the late 1960s when he released his debut album, "Whistle Stop." His breakthrough came with the release of the single "Durham Town The Leavin' " in 1969, which became a massive hit and propelled him to stardom. Throughout his career, Whittaker recorded numerous albums and achieved chart success in both the United Kingdom and internationally. Some of his most notable songs include "The Last Farewell," "New World in the Morning," and "I Don't Believe in If Anymore." His music often reflected themes of love, nature, and social issues, resonating with listeners across different generations and cultures. Whittaker became television personality hosting his own television show, "The Roger Whittaker Show," which showcased his musical talents and featured guest appearances from renowned artists. Whittaker'won numerous awards and accolades throughout his career. He received multiple gold and platinum certifications for his albums and was honored with the World Music Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Music Industry in 1989.
James William Buffett, also known as Jimmy Buffett, was an American singer-songwriter, musician, author, and billionaire businessman, best known for his 1977 hit Margaritaville which spent 22 weeks on the US singles chart peaking at No 8 before he become a successful businessman. Buffett started his music career in the late 1960s and gained a following for his laid-back, tropical-themed songs that often celebrated the beach bum lifestyle. His breakthrough album, "Changes in Latitudes, Changes i... moreJames William Buffett, also known as Jimmy Buffett, was an American singer-songwriter, musician, author, and billionaire businessman, best known for his 1977 hit Margaritaville which spent 22 weeks on the US singles chart peaking at No 8 before he become a successful businessman. Buffett started his music career in the late 1960s and gained a following for his laid-back, tropical-themed songs that often celebrated the beach bum lifestyle. His breakthrough album, "Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes," was released in 1977 and included the hit song "Margaritaville," which became his signature song and a cultural phenomenon. Throughout his career, Buffett released over 30 albums and was known for his live performances, which often included beach balls, Hawaiian shirts, and tropical drinks. He also wrote several books, including a memoir and a series of novels, and was a successful businessman with his own line of restaurants, hotels, and merchandise. In addition to his music and business ventures, Buffett was also known for his philanthropic work. He founded the Singing for Change charitable foundation and supported causes such as marine conservation and disaster relief efforts.
Steven Scott Harwell was an American musician best known as the lead vocalist and frontman for the popular rock band Smash Mouth, which he co-founded in 1994. Harwell began his musical career as a rapper before transitioning to rock music. In the early 1990s, he met and formed a band with guitarist Greg Camp, drummer Kevin Coleman, and bassist Paul De Lisle. The group's first album, "Fush Yu Mang," was released in 1997 and included the hit single "Walkin' on the Sun," which propelled the band t... moreSteven Scott Harwell was an American musician best known as the lead vocalist and frontman for the popular rock band Smash Mouth, which he co-founded in 1994. Harwell began his musical career as a rapper before transitioning to rock music. In the early 1990s, he met and formed a band with guitarist Greg Camp, drummer Kevin Coleman, and bassist Paul De Lisle. The group's first album, "Fush Yu Mang," was released in 1997 and included the hit single "Walkin' on the Sun," which propelled the band to mainstream success. Smash Mouth went on to release several more successful albums, including "Astro Lounge," which featured the hit song "All Star." Harwell's distinctive voice and energetic stage presence helped make Smash Mouth one of the most popular rock bands of the late 1990s and early 2000s. Harwell also collaborated with other musicians and appeared in several films and television shows, including "Rat Race" and "The Simpsons." He was also a frequent performer at charity events and was known for his philanthropic efforts. He announced his retirement due to health problems in October 2021 after performing at a beer and wine festival at Bethel Woods Center for the Arts in Bethel, New York.
James Lane Buckley was an influential American politician and judge best know for being the lead plaintiff in a landmark campaign finance lawsuit — Buckley v. Valeo — that in 1976 unraveled part of the post-Watergate regulation of political money. He was also known for serving in the United States Senate as a member of the Conservative Party of New York State from 1971 to 1977. Buckley came from a prominent family with a long lineage of public service. His political career began in the 1960s wh... moreJames Lane Buckley was an influential American politician and judge best know for being the lead plaintiff in a landmark campaign finance lawsuit — Buckley v. Valeo — that in 1976 unraveled part of the post-Watergate regulation of political money. He was also known for serving in the United States Senate as a member of the Conservative Party of New York State from 1971 to 1977. Buckley came from a prominent family with a long lineage of public service. His political career began in the 1960s when he was elected to the U.S. Senate as a member of the Conservative Party of New York. Serving from 1971 to 1977, he was known for his unwavering commitment to limited government, fiscal responsibility, and individual liberty. Buckley later served as a judge on the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit from 1985 to 1996. Buckley was also a prolific author. He wrote several books on political and legal topics, including "Saving Congress from Itself: Emancipating the States and Empowering Their People" and "Freedom at Risk: Reflections on Politics, Liberty, and the State." These works reflected his deep commitment to preserving individual freedom, limited government, and the principles upon which the United States was founded.
Ron Cephas Jones was an award winning highly regarded American actor best known for for his role as William Hill in the Drama television series This Is Us (2016–2022), a role which earned him a Screen Actors Guild Award. Jones' career started with stage acting and spanned several decades . He gained recognition for his stage work, earning critical acclaim for his performances in numerous plays, including "Richard III" and "The Tempest." In addition to his success on stage, Jones made a significa... moreRon Cephas Jones was an award winning highly regarded American actor best known for for his role as William Hill in the Drama television series This Is Us (2016–2022), a role which earned him a Screen Actors Guild Award. Jones' career started with stage acting and spanned several decades . He gained recognition for his stage work, earning critical acclaim for his performances in numerous plays, including "Richard III" and "The Tempest." In addition to his success on stage, Jones made a significant impact on the small screen. He became a familiar face to audiences worldwide through his notable roles in television series. One of his most prominent roles came in the critically acclaimed drama series "This Is Us," in which he portrayed William Hill, the biological father of one of the main characters. Jones' portrayal of William earned him widespread praise, including an Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series in 2018. Beyond his acting career, Jones was known for his warmth, humility, and dedication to his craft. He served as an inspiration to aspiring actors and was admired for his professionalism and commitment to his roles.
Jerome Sheldon Moss, was an American recording executive and music industry pioneer, best known for being the co-founder of A&M Records, one of the most successful independent record labels of its time. Moss began his career in the music industry in the late 1950s, working for Liberty Records. In 1962, he joined forces with Herb Alpert, a talented trumpet player and songwriter, to establish A&M Records. With Moss serving as the business-minded executive and Alpert as the creative force, A&M Reco... moreJerome Sheldon Moss, was an American recording executive and music industry pioneer, best known for being the co-founder of A&M Records, one of the most successful independent record labels of its time. Moss began his career in the music industry in the late 1950s, working for Liberty Records. In 1962, he joined forces with Herb Alpert, a talented trumpet player and songwriter, to establish A&M Records. With Moss serving as the business-minded executive and Alpert as the creative force, A&M Records quickly gained recognition for its innovative approach and diverse roster of artists. Under Moss's leadership, A&M Records became a powerhouse in the music industry. The label signed and nurtured the careers of numerous successful artists, including The Carpenters, Sting, Janet Jackson, Peter Frampton, and Cat Stevens, among others. A&M Records was known allowing musicians creative freedom and offering them a supportive environment to develop their careers. Moss was also a longtime horse-breeder and owner who received the largest ever first-place purse from the Kentucky Derby in 2005. He was also a philanthropist, he donated $25,000,000 to The Music Center in downtown Los Angeles, which was the largest single contribution ever made to The Music Center.
Renata Scotto was an acclaimed Italian soprano, opera director, and voice teacher. She was best known for her vocal talents, dramatic interpretations, and versatility on stage, and widely regarded as one of the greatest sopranos of the 20th century. Scotto began her vocal training at a young age and made her professional debut in 1952 at the Teatro Nuovo in Milan. She quickly gained recognition for her powerful voice. Throughout her career, Scotto collaborated with renowned conductors and direc... moreRenata Scotto was an acclaimed Italian soprano, opera director, and voice teacher. She was best known for her vocal talents, dramatic interpretations, and versatility on stage, and widely regarded as one of the greatest sopranos of the 20th century. Scotto began her vocal training at a young age and made her professional debut in 1952 at the Teatro Nuovo in Milan. She quickly gained recognition for her powerful voice. Throughout her career, Scotto collaborated with renowned conductors and directors, performing in major opera houses around the world, including La Scala in Milan, the Metropolitan Opera in New York, and the Royal Opera House in London. Her interpretations of iconic roles such as Violetta in Verdi's "La Traviata" and Cio-Cio-San in Puccini's "Madama Butterfly" were particularly celebrated.Scotto also ventured into opera direction and teaching. She directed numerous productions, bringing her deep understanding of the art form to create visually and emotionally compelling performances. As a voice teacher, she shared her knowledge and experience with aspiring singers, nurturing their talents and guiding them in honing their skills. Scotto's contributions to the opera world earned her numerous awards, including two Emmys and the Opera News Award in 2006.
