RecentMusic - Ted Hawkins New Releases

Ted Hawkins

Ted Hawkins was an American singer-songwriter with a compelling life story that was almost as poignant and profound as his music. Born on October 28, 1936, in Biloxi, Mississippi, Hawkins led a tumultuous life, marked by poverty, tough breaks, and run-ins with the law, yet his music was a vessel of pure emotion, soulfully blending elements of blues, country, soul, and folk. Hawkins honed his craft on the streets of Venice Beach, often performing for pedestrians with just his guitar and distinctive voice. Despite his immense talent, Hawkins' career was largely spent under the radar, with sporadic bouts of recording sessions and performances in between personal struggles.

Hawkins' discography, while not vast, is a testament to his raw and evocative storytelling abilities. "Watch Your Step" (1982) marked his acclaimed debut, filled with heartfelt songs that resonated with those fortunate enough to discover them. Years later, "Happy Hour" (1986) continued to showcase his gritty, soul-bearing style. But it wasn't until the release of "The Next Hundred Years" (1994), a critical success that combined emotional depth with melodic simplicity, that Hawkins began to receive international recognition. Tragically, just as his career was looking up, Ted Hawkins passed away on January 1, 1995, shortly after completing a final tour, which was posthumously released as "The Final Tour". His legacy lives on through compilations like "Cold and Bitter Tears: Essential Recordings", and the affectionate covers album "I Love You Too", ensuring that Hawkins' poignant musical narrative reaches new audiences and continues to touch hearts.

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