Alan Hawkshaw was a highly respected British composer and musician, renowned for his significant contributions to the world of television themes, commercial music, and library music over the course of a career that spanned several decades. Born on March 27, 1937, in Leeds, England, Hawkshaw started his career as a member of rock and R&B groups in the 1960s before making his mark as a sought-after session keyboardist. His adept skills on the Hammond organ and his knack for composition led him to become one of the most prolific creators of memorable TV theme tunes and commercial jingles throughout the 1970s and 1980s.

Among his most celebrated works are themes for iconic television shows such as "Grange Hill," "Channel 4 News," and the international hit "The Countdown." Hawkshaw's ability to tap into the zeitgeist with his music saw him venture into a range of styles, from funk and soul to cinematic scores and experimental synth works showcased in albums like "27 Top TV Themes and Commercials" and "1980's Synth Dark Drama." His masterful album "Full Circle" marks a return to his roots, while "Alan Hawkshaw's Orchestral Encounters" and "Movie Images" display his broad musical palette and ability to evoke vivid imagery through sound. His fascination with the intersection of music and technology is epitomized in his soundscape creations for "Arthur C Clarke's Mysterious Universe." Even in his later work, such as "Hawk's Hammond Lounge," Hawkshaw continued to exude charm and ingenuity, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and timeless melodies following his passing on October 16, 2021.

Genres

Library Music

Latest Release

27 Top TV Themes and Commercials

Alan Hawkshaw

Album - 15 Tracks - Released October 6, 2023