Screamin' Jay Hawkins, a legendary musician, is most famously associated with his iconic song "I Put a Spell On You," which he recorded for Okeh Records in 1956. This haunting track not only earned him a devoted cult following in the United States, Europe, and Japan but also catapulted him to international recognition.
Initially, Hawkins had envisioned "I Put a Spell On You" as a tender ballad, but a night of excessive drinking inspired him to attempt the song again, this time with a more unconventional approach. He screamed, yelled, and groaned, and the result was a unique, unforgettable sound that captivated audiences worldwide.
The song's raw, unsettling energy, some critics have described as "cannibalistic," led to its ban from many radio stations across the country. Undeterred, Hawkins continued to incorporate this demented style into his music, earning a reputation as an outrageous and flamboyant performer.
On stage, Hawkins would often emerge from coffins, brandishing rubber snakes and fake tarantulas, and adorning himself with unusual accessories, such as a boar's tooth around his neck or a bone clipped to his nose. This unorthodox approach to music and performance earned him a devoted fan base and cemented his status as a true original.
Hawkins' music career began in 1951 as a pianist and valet to the renowned jazz guitarist Tiny Grimes. His recording debut, "Why Did You Waste My Time," was released in 1952 and featured Grimes and his Rockin' Highlanders. Throughout the 1960s, Hawkins continued to hone his craft, pushing the boundaries of what was considered acceptable in popular music.
