Birthday Celebrations — July 4

Born on this day. These are the birthdays we celebrate on July 4 — the people whose lives added to the story of Black history.

Bill Withers

Birth name: William Harrison Withers Jr.

Born July 4, 1938 — died March 30, 2020

Singer, songwriter, musician, and soul music legend.

Withers gave American music some of its most honest and enduring songs, including “Lean on Me,” “Ain’t No Sunshine,” and “Lovely Day.” His music carried warmth, struggle, simplicity, and emotional truth, reaching across generations long after he stepped away from the recording industry.

A. G. Gaston

Birth name: Arthur George Gaston

Born July 4, 1892 — died January 19, 1996

Businessman, entrepreneur, philanthropist, civil rights supporter, and Black economic power figure.

Gaston built a major Black-owned business empire in Birmingham, Alabama, with interests in insurance, funeral services, real estate, and other industries. His wealth and influence helped support Black institutions and civil rights activity during a time when economic independence was part of the freedom struggle.