Birthday Celebrations — July 28

Born on this day. These are the birthdays we celebrate on July 28 — the people whose lives added to the story of Black history.

Vida Blue

Full name: Vida Rochelle Blue Jr.

Born July 28, 1949 — died May 6, 2023

Major League Baseball pitcher, Cy Young winner, MVP, and World Series champion.

Blue became one of baseball’s most electric pitchers in the 1970s. With the Oakland Athletics, he helped power a dynasty that won three straight World Series championships, while his 1971 season made him both American League MVP and Cy Young Award winner.

Afroman

Birth name: Joseph Edgar Foreman

Born July 28, 1974

Rapper, singer, guitarist, songwriter, and comedy hip-hop artist.

Afroman became known nationally with “Because I Got High,” but his work also reflects storytelling, humor, independence, and a laid-back style rooted in real-life commentary. His career shows how comedy and hip-hop can cross into mainstream culture while still keeping a personal voice.

Soulja Boy

Birth name: DeAndre Cortez Way

Born July 28, 1990

Rapper, producer, songwriter, entrepreneur, and internet-era hip-hop pioneer.

Soulja Boy helped change how hip-hop moved online with “Crank That,” using the internet, dance culture, and direct fan connection before social media promotion became standard in the music industry. His early success showed a new generation how digital tools could create a hit.