Birthday Celebrations — July 13

Born on this day. These are the birthdays we celebrate on July 13 — the people whose lives added to the story of Black history.

Albert Ayler

Born July 13, 1936 — died November 25, 1970

Avant-garde jazz saxophonist, composer, bandleader, and free jazz innovator.

Ayler pushed jazz into more spiritual, experimental, and emotionally intense territory. His sound challenged traditional structure and influenced the free jazz movement, leaving a powerful legacy despite his short life.

Spud Webb

Birth name: Anthony Jerome Webb

Born July 13, 1963

NBA point guard, Slam Dunk Contest champion, and undersized basketball icon.

Webb became a symbol of heart, lift, and determination in basketball. Despite being one of the smallest players on the court, he stunned the sports world by winning the 1986 NBA Slam Dunk Contest and proving that size was not the limit of greatness.

Gerald Levert

Birth name: Gerald Edward Levert

Born July 13, 1966 — died November 10, 2006

R&B singer, songwriter, producer, actor, and LeVert/LSG member.

Levert carried a deep soul tradition as the son of Eddie Levert of The O’Jays while building his own voice in R&B. Through LeVert, LSG, and his solo career, he became known for emotional vocals, strong songwriting, and a sound rooted in love, pain, and grown soul.