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Gil Scott-Heron

American soul and jazz poet, musician, and author.

Born April 1st, 1949 in Chicago. [ref]

Died May 27th, 2011 at 62 years old in New York City (death from AIDS-related complications). [ref]

Occupations
composer, costume designer, performing artist, pianist, poet, rapper, recording artist, singer, singer-songwriter, theatrical director, writer
Wikipedia
Twitter

It is with deep sadness that the world mourns the death of Gil Scott-Heron, a brilliant and influential poet, musician, and author who died on May 27th, 2011 at 62 years old. A pioneering figure in African-American culture, Scott-Heron rose to fame in 1970 when his first album, Small Talk at 125th and Lenox, was released. His passionate words and soulful sound showcased his sharp wit and bold political views and helped introduce the world to what is now known as "rap". His famous works included "The Revolution Will Not Be Televised," "Winter in America," and "Ain't No Such Thing as Superman." During his long career, Scott-Heron released more than a dozen albums, wrote several books, and won numerous awards for his contributions to music and literature. He was an advocate for social and political justice, and his voice and work live on in the fight for equality. Scott-Heron's legacy and impact on music, literature, and culture have been felt around the world. His passing is a great loss to humanity, and he will be remembered with admiration, love, and admiration.

Life is for the living. Death is for the dead. Let life be like music. And death a note unsaid. Langston Hughes