Birthday Celebrations — July 12

Born on this day. These are the birthdays we celebrate on July 12 — the people whose lives added to the story of Black history.

Ray Scott

Birth name: John Raymond Scott

Born July 12, 1938

Professional basketball player, coach, and first Black NBA Coach of the Year.

Scott moved from a long playing career into coaching and made history with the Detroit Pistons. In 1974, he became the first Black coach to win NBA Coach of the Year, helping open doors for Black leadership on the sidelines.

Charlie Murphy

Birth name: Charles Quinton Murphy Jr.

Born July 12, 1959 — died April 12, 2017

Comedian, actor, writer, storyteller, and sketch comedy figure.

Murphy brought a sharp, streetwise storytelling voice to comedy. He became widely known through Chappelle’s Show, where his unforgettable stories and timing helped turn real-life encounters into comedy moments that became part of pop culture.

Tracie Spencer

Born July 12, 1976

R&B and pop singer, songwriter, model, and former child star.

Spencer first gained attention as a young performer after winning Star Search. She went on to sign with Capitol Records and became known for a smooth R&B-pop sound with songs like “This House” and “Tender Kisses.”